Leonardo DiCaprio Confirms Involvement in Heat 2

In an exciting August 2022 update, renowned writer and director Michael Mann collaborated with author Meg Gardiner to release Heat 2, a novel that serves dual roles as a sequel and prequel to Mann's critically acclaimed 1995 heist movie. By spring the next year, it was revealed that Mann would also bring the book to life in the form of a feature film. In a momentous turn of events, reports began circulating in October that Hollywood superstar Leonardo DiCaprio was considering the lead role of Chris Shiherlis, originally played by the late Val Kilmer.

DiCaprio recently ended all speculation about his involvement in Heat 2. In a conversation with Deadline about his 2025 film One Battle After Another and his illustrious career, DiCaprio confirmed that he would be part of Mann’s highly anticipated project. He emphasised that, while respecting its predecessor, the sequel will very much be its own entity. He stated, "This is very much its own movie. It tips its hat to Heat, but it’s an homage, and it picks up the story from there."

Heat 2's narrative will explore the past in 1988, seven years prior to the events of the original Heat, focusing on Chris Shiherlis, Neil McCauley and their crew undertaking jobs in Chicago, and Detective Vincent Hanna's pursuit of a gang of home intruders. It will also delve into the future, following Shiherlis' life post-Heat, into 2000, portraying him as a fugitive on the run from Hanna after being the only one to escape from a botched bank robbery.

DiCaprio expressed his excitement over being part of the upcoming project. However, he also emphasized the importance of ensuring Heat 2 distinguishes itself from its predecessor and doesn’t come across as merely a repeat of the original narrative.

DiCaprio revealed in the interview that he has yet to decide whether he will take on the role of Chris Shiherlis in Heat 2 or step into Al Pacino's shoes as Vincent Hanna. Whichever part he eventually chooses, fans eagerly await DiCaprio's portrayal in one of the lead roles in Heat 2, regardless of when filming begins. Meanwhile, DiCaprio's other upcoming projects include a collaboration with Dwayne Johnson and Emily Blunt in a film directed by Martin Scorsese.