“Summer Lovin’” — the prequel film to the original “Grease” — just found its director, taking a major step forward in production.
Per People magazine, Brett Haley — who has mostly directed streaming service films, including “I’ll See You in My Dreams,” “The Hero” and “Hearts Beat Loud” — has reportedly joined as director for the “Grease” sequel.
“Summer Lovin’” is a reference to a line in the song “Summer Nights” in the original 1978 “Grease.” That song told the origin story of Sandy and Danny in the movie.
The film will reportedly explore the relationship’s early days, focusing on those summer nights, per Deadline.
“The studio is extremely high on this property and sources say there is a sense depending on how this film goes of the possibility of a franchise down the road,” according to Deadline.
John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John starred as the original Sandy and Danny. The film sent Travolta’s career skyrocketing. Newton-John had some musical hits at that point.
“They were desperately looking for a Sandy,” he told People magazine. “I said, ‘There is only one person that should play this role and it’s Olivia Newton-John. … She’s every guy’s dream.’”
Newton-John said she and Travolta remain good friends.
“We text!” said Newton-John of their bond. “We did something life-changing, making that film. I feel grateful to have worked with him.”