Sonic the Hedgehog 3stars Keanu Reeves and Idris Elba call for a “Knuckles and Shadow” spinoff, both teasing hopeful returns to theSonicuniverse. Elba portrays Knuckles the Echidna in the movie universe, having also reprised the role in 2024’sKnucklesTV spinoff on Paramount+. Reeves will be debuting in thecast ofSonic the Hedgehog 3as Shadow, a black and red hedgehog trying to destroy the world on his quest for revenge. The new characters' debut in the first trailer saw him effortlessly beat Knuckles in a fight, forming an immediate animosity between the pair.
Speaking withComicBookabout the upcoming movie,Reeves and Elba expressed interest in teaming up for a spinoff starring Knuckles and ShadowafterSonic the Hedgehog 3. Elba expressed interest by saying, “I’m telling you…Shadow Knuckles,” while Reeves responded saying, “No, Knuckles and Shadow.” The Knuckles actor joked that “Shadow Knuckles sounds like a band.” Their exchange indicates how on-board they are for a potential spinoff starring their characters, alongside how the story could develop following whatever happens in the new movie.
What A Knuckles & Shadow Spinoff Could Mean For Paramount’s Sonic Movie Universe
Elba & Reeves Have Experience In Video Game Collaborations
Thestory ofSonic the Hedgehog 3focuses on Shadow as the antagonist, with Team Sonic trying to stop him from destroying the world alongside Dr. Eggman (Jim Carrey) and Gerald Robotnik (Carrey). However,the Ultimate Lifeform’s larger role in the franchise is that of an anti-hero, something the new movie is likely to establish for accuracy to the game lore. His development makes a Knuckles and Shadow team-up isn’t outside the realm of possibility, depending on how the events of the new movie end up playing out.
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It wouldn’t be the first video game collaboration between Reeves and Elba either,with both portraying prominent characters in the gameCyberpuk 2077, the latter introduced in itsPhantom LibertyDLC. A direct continuation of theirSonic the Hedgehogcharacter stories would make sense, given their ability to play off one another in a game-inspired setting. Depending on how future installments shape up, Shadow could be incorporated into a potentialKnucklesseason 2, or a totally new spinoff could focus on the duo.
Our Take On A Possible Knuckles & Shadow Team-Up
It Would Fit Perfectly In The Larger Sonic Universe
Given Knuckles' focus on honor and affinity for strength, coupling him with Shadow’s brooding, no-nonsense attitude could offer fun results if the pair had an adventure together. The duo don’t have as strong a connection to each other in the games as they do with other characters, butReeves and Elba’s ability to perform off one another would make a focus on their characters much stronger. SinceSonic the Hedgehog 3has two post-credits scenes setting up future installments, a collaboration between the pair isn’t outside the realm of possibility.
Sonic the Hedgehog 3early reactions are praising the film as the best in the trilogy.
Sonic the Hedgehog 3
Cast
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 reunites Sonic, Knuckles, and Tails as they face a formidable new adversary, Shadow. With Shadow’s unprecedented powers posing a significant threat, Team Sonic seeks an unexpected alliance to thwart his plans and safeguard the planet.
