Cynthia Erivo, known for her role in Wicked, takes on a new challenge as she joins the cast of Karoshi, an upcoming samurai action thriller produced by the team behind John Wick. Scheduled to begin filming in June, this feature is set to captivate audiences with its unique blend of corporate intrigue and samurai action. Joining Erivo are Past Lives breakout star Teo Yoo and Isabel May from 1923, though their roles remain a mystery.
Described as “a corporate thriller with a samurai twist,” Karoshi will be guided by Takashi Doscher, the director behind the 2019 post-apocalyptic romance Only. While not much has been uncovered about the plot, the film’s title, ‘karoshi,’ is a Japanese term meaning “death from overwork,” adding a layer of mystery and potential tension to the storyline. Viewers can expect dramatic showdowns where characters may face unexpected ends.
The participation of Chad Stahelski, known for directing all four John Wick films, in producing this movie with 87Eleven Entertainment colleagues Alex Young and Jason Spitz, adds an exciting edge to the project. Their collaboration with Lionsgate continues to thrive under a first-look deal, aiming to replicate the blockbuster success of the John Wick series. Given the billion-dollar success of Keanu Reeves‘ action franchise, expectations for this new endeavor are high.
This role comes amidst an exceptionally busy year for Cynthia Erivo. Fresh off her Oscar-nominated performance as Elphaba Thropp in Wicked, she will soon reprise her role in Wicked: For Good, which is set to hit theaters on November 21, 2025. Her schedule is packed with diverse projects. Currently, she’s filming Children of Blood and Bone, adapted from Tomi Adeyemi’s bestselling novel, alongside stars like Idris Elba and Viola Davis. Before this hits theaters, she will also appear in Season 2 of Poker Face, showcasing her versatility by portraying six identical sextuplets.
Furthermore, Erivo is set to star in a production of Jesus Christ Superstar at the Hollywood Bowl this summer, a casting decision that has sparked discussions on social media. Despite the controversies, her unwavering drive and talent are evident as she continues to explore new opportunities, including potential roles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
The film industry watches closely as Karoshi enters production. If successful, it might echo the triumph of the John Wick franchise. Lionsgate surely hopes to create another cinematic sensation. With Cynthia Erivo leading a skilled cast, the film is poised to leave a mark, blending gripping storytelling with action-packed sequences. As the project unfolds, it will be interesting to see how Erivo’s star power and diverse range contribute to making Karoshi an unforgettable cinematic experience.
