Fast and Furious series could see 'at least three more' films, Universal exec says

Universal Pictures believes the Fast and Furious film franchise is far from finished, even after the tragic death of Paul Walker.

"We think there's at least three more [movies]," said Donna Langley, chairman of Universal Pictures, during a roundtable interview by The Hollywood Reporter with executives from six studios. "I think it's still a growing franchise."

Paul Walker's character, Brian O'Conner, appeared in five of the six existing Fast and Furious movies. Walker was killed in a car accident last November in the midst of production on the upcoming Furious 7, yet will appear in the movie. Langley said Walker "is, and always will be, an integral part of the story," but implied that future entries in the franchise could focus on other characters.

"There are many other great characters, and it's also an opportunity to introduce new characters," said Langley. "So we think that there's more to mine there. But we're of course very mindful about fatigue."

Furious 7, which hits theaters April 3, 2015, will be the seventh film in the series since the original The Fast and the Furious in 2001. The first six movies have grossed more than $2.38 billion at the box office worldwide. You can check out the first full trailer for Furious 7 below.