Denis Villeneuve "is adding another high-profile talent to an already-loaded cast," according to Deadline, which reported that Christopher Walken (The Outlaws, Severance) will play the Emperor in Warner Bros. and Legendary's Dune: Part Two.
Walken joins the ensemble that includes Timothée Chalamet, Rebecca Ferguson, Zendaya and Josh Brolin, who are expected to reprise their roles, as well recently announced cast members Florence Pugh and Austin Butler. Villeneuve will again write, direct and produce. Production is expected to start in the fall, with the film set to bow on October 20, 2023. Jon Spaihts is returning to co-write script with Villeneuve.