That 'Space Jam' Sequel With LeBron James Is Finally Happening

It's been in the pipeline for what feels like forever but that Space Jam sequel with NBA superstar LeBron James you've been hearing about is officially happening. 

According to The Hollywood Reporter, James will star in the lead role, while Black Panther and Creed director, Ryan Coogler will produce and Terence Nance (HBO's Random Acts Of Flyness) will direct. 

“I loved his vision” James said of Coogler's work on Black Panther, which grossed $US1.34 billion worldwide following its release this past January, becoming the highest-grossing film ever by a black director.

"So for Ryan to be able to bring that to kids, it’s amazing.”

James has long been attached to a potential follow-up to the beloved 1996 original and it will be his first acting gig since his stand-out role in Amy Schumer's 2015 comedy, Trainwreck. 

Fast & Furious 6 director Justin Lin was reported to direct the sequel back in 2016, however he is set to stay on the project as an executive producer.

“The Space Jam collaboration is so much more than just me and the Looney Tunes getting together and doing this movie,” James said.

“It's so much bigger. I'd just love for kids to understand how empowered they can feel and how empowered they can be if they don't just give up on their dreams. And I think Ryan did that for a lot of people.”

Filming is expected to get underway next year during the NBA off-season.