‘Avatar 2’ Release Date, News & Updates: Sequel to Come Out in 2018? Sigourney Weaver’s Return Confirmed? [Spoilers]

The cast of "Avatar 2" is set to begin filming for the highly anticipated movie sequel of all time. While the second installment to the franchise is initially expected to be released in 2017, reports claim that 20th Century Fox will release the movie in 2018.

This article contains spoilers. Read on if you want to learn more about this story.

"Avatar 2" will begin production in April 2016 despite rumors claiming that the movie's release date has been pushed to a much later date. According to Slash Film, the sequel was initially slated for a Christmas 2017 release.

Director James Cameron previously hinted that they were targeting a holiday release for the "Avatar" movie sequel, but it looks like 20th Century Fox has chosen to move it to a later date. The publication noted that Disney has already taken its spot with its "Star Wars" movie franchise.

"Star Wars: Episode VIII" was initially planned for a May 2017 release date, but it was later on moved to a Dec. 15, 2017 release. This might result in a greater competition for viewers if "Avatar 2" will be released during the same time so the sequel might opt for a 2018 release instead.

Meanwhile, Lawyer Herald reported that despite rumors surrounding "Avatar 2" release date, filming is all set to begin this April in New Zealand.

The plot will reportedly follow the events from the first "Avatar" movie. Jake Sully will live his life as a permanent Na'Vi avatar together with Princess Neytiri.

Sam Worthington and Zoe Saldana will be reprising their roles for "Avatar 2." Rumors also claim that Sigourney Weaver will be back in the sequel as Dr. Grace Augustine.

Cameron previously talked about possible ways in which Weaver's character may return for the "Avatar" movie sequel.

"When you have a science-fiction franchise, you're never dead, unless your DNA is expunged from the universe. And then there's always time travel," he said.