‘School Of Rock’ Sequel Only Needs One More Person Before Green Light

Dewey Finn is back at it again! Jack Black, the man who brought the legendary rocker to life in the 2003 comedy School of Rock, has reignited hope for a sequel.

In a recent interview, Black expressed his eagerness to revisit the role, playfully suggesting the title School of Rock 2 Electric Boogaloo. This news comes as a welcome surprise to fans who’ve long awaited a follow-up to the beloved film.

But hold on a minute – there’s a twist (and it’s not a power chord). Black acknowledges a crucial element missing from the potential sequel: the original film’s screenwriter, Mike White. The rockstar-comedian emphasizes White’s return as essential, praising him for his comedic genius that helped make the first film a hit.

Unfortunately, White’s current schedule is packed with creating award-winning content, most notably the critically acclaimed HBO series White Lotus. So, while Black is ready to rock out again, it seems getting the whole band back together hinges on the screenwriter’s availability.

Jack Black’s love for his role

Black’s affection for his iconic role in School of Rock is no secret. Over the past few years, he’s consistently expressed interest in revisiting Dewey Finn.

Black first hinted at a sequel in early 2023, mentioning both School of Rock and Tenacious D in the Pick of Destiny as potential follow-up projects. Later that year, the focus shifted towards a reunion with the original cast.

Black playfully highlighted the passage of time, noting that the child actors from 2003 would now be in their thirties. He expressed excitement for a potential jam session and catching up with everyone at a 20th-anniversary celebration.

Black isn’t entirely unfamiliar with “School of Rock” reunions. In 2018, he even shared the stage with some of the film’s cast members during a Tenacious D show in Chicago.

Mike White’s schedule holds the key

While Jack Black is eager to bring Dewey Finn back to life, there’s one crucial piece missing from the School of Rock sequel puzzle: screenwriter Mike White. Black himself acknowledges White’s importance, crediting him with creating the original film’s magic.

However, White’s current schedule might put a damper on these rock and roll dreams, as the screenwriter is currently embroiled in White Lotus, the HBO series that has already been confirmed for a third season in 2025.

Beyond that, White has also dipped his toes into animation, contributing to the screenplay for Despicable Me 4 due out later in 2024.

Without White’s involvement, a School of Rock sequel seems unlikely to move forward. The ball is firmly in White’s court, so fans will have to wait and see if his schedule allows him to reunite with Dewey Finn.

A cult classic

School of Rock marked a turning point for Jack Black. While he had previously established himself as a scene-stealing comedic force in films like High Fidelity, Airborne, and Orange County, this 2003 movie catapulted him to leading-man status.

Black’s portrayal of Dewey Finn, a washed-up rocker who impersonates a substitute teacher at a posh school, resonated with audiences. Dewey’s unorthodox approach to education involved transforming his classroom into a rock band, with hilarious and heartwarming results.

The film, featuring Joan Cusack and Sarah Silverman alongside Black, proved to be a massive commercial success. It raked in an impressive $81 million domestically, with a strong $19 million opening week.

School of Rock even reigned supreme as the top-grossing film of October 2003, solidifying its place in pop culture history.