Aaron Sorkin is preparing a follow-up to The Social Network, but it appears the original film’s star, Jesse Eisenberg, won’t be returning as Facebook co-founder Mark Zuckerberg.
According to recent industry reports, Eisenberg, who earned an Academy Award nomination for his portrayal in the 2010 film, has opted not to reprise the role. It’s unclear whether this is a definitive decision or part of ongoing negotiations.
In Eisenberg’s absence, Emmy-winning actor Jeremy Strong (Succession) is reportedly in early talks to take on the role. The potential casting comes as Sony positions the project as a high-priority development. Alongside Strong, Mikey Madison is said to be in consideration for the role of Frances Haugen, the whistleblower whose disclosures to The Wall Street Journal formed the basis of its 2021 investigative series The Facebook Files. Strong may also portray journalist Jeff Horowitz, who led the reporting.
The upcoming film, written and directed by Sorkin, will not function as a traditional sequel but as a continuation of the story, moving from Facebook’s creation into its later years as Meta. It will focus on the company’s influence on public discourse and the spread of misinformation, as well as its role in events surrounding the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. While Sorkin has said it is not intended to be a “January 6 movie,” the political and social ramifications of Facebook’s operations will be central themes.
David Fincher’s original 2010 film, which chronicled Facebook’s founding, was widely acclaimed and went on to win three Academy Awards, including Best Adapted Screenplay for Sorkin. The sequel’s shift in focus from a tech startup drama to a media and political accountability story marks a significant tonal change, reflecting how the platform’s global impact has evolved over the past 15 years.
With the script in development and no final casting confirmed, production timelines remain uncertain. However, Sony’s designation of the project as a priority suggests an intent to move forward quickly once key roles are secured.
