Director Lokesh Kanagaraj has stirred excitement among Thalapathy Vijay fans by expressing his strong desire to collaborate with the actor for a sequel to their 2021 hit film, Master. This comes even as Kanagaraj shelves plans for Leo 2, a sequel to their 2023 film, Leo.
In a recent interview with film critic Sudhir Srinivasan, Kanagaraj revealed that he is more interested in exploring the character arc of JD from Master than revisiting Leo Das. "Only time can tell, and Vijay Anna has to decide," Kanagaraj stated, acknowledging Vijay's future plans. "We can bring him in for a cameo, but I want to do 'Master' with him. Everyone is waiting for 'Leo 2', but I want to do 'Master' with him".
Kanagaraj explained that he feels a part of JD's story remains untold. "I think there's a part of that story which remains untold. It's there in the first one without any conclusion. I just want to do that film". He also admitted a personal fondness for the character, saying, "I personally like the vibe of JD very much". While acknowledging Leo's popularity, Kanagaraj emphasized his vision for Master 2: " 'Leo' is a strong character and people love it, but if you personally ask me, I have a proper idea for 'Master 2' and he also knows it".
The director is currently occupied with the post-production of Coolie, starring Rajinikanth, which is slated for release on August 14, 2025. Following Coolie, Kanagaraj has a roadmap for his cinematic universe, which includes Kaithi 2 and Vikram 2. However, Leo 2 seems to be on hold, at least for now.
Lokesh Kanagaraj shared his roadmap for the LCU (Lokesh Cinematic Universe), “After 'Coolie', I'll start with 'Kaithi 2'. I also have to do 'Vikram 2' with Kamal Sir, but I haven't finished writing it yet. Finally, it has to be 'Leo 2', but we must plan it without keeping Leo Das in mind".
The decision to potentially sideline Leo 2 appears to be influenced by Thalapathy Vijay's announcement of his retirement from films to pursue a career in politics. Vijay is expected to fully transition into politics after his upcoming film, Jana Nayagan.
Kanagaraj admitted that Vijay's retirement plans have impacted his LCU roadmap. "Had Vijay Sir not announced his retirement, I would have made Leo 2 as well," he stated. He also added, “Like how we didn't anticipate the birth of a cinematic universe while doing Kaithi, we couldn't have anticipated that Vijay anna would announce his retirement".
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Leo 2, Kanagaraj seems enthusiastic about Master 2. He believes there's more to explore with the character of JD and has already shared his ideas for the sequel with Vijay. "I really think there's more story left to tell for JD, and I'd love to bring that vibe back on screen,” Kanagaraj said.
Whether Master 2 materializes remains to be seen, depending on Vijay's decisions regarding his career. However, Lokesh Kanagaraj's interest in revisiting the world of Master has undoubtedly ignited hope among fans eager to see Thalapathy Vijay in the role of JD once again.
Kanagaraj is aware of a recurring theme in his films. He often tries to show his characters battling drug abuse and most of his stories focus on a man's fight to protect his family. Lokesh talked about exploring the same themes in his upcoming films and said, "I want my commercial films to have some takeaway. When the heroes try to bring a drug-free society in films, there is a high chance it might have an impact on people”.
