Matt Damon in talks for secret Daniels project after Ryan Gosling exit

Matt Damon is reportedly in talks to star in an untitled event film from acclaimed directing duo Daniels for Universal Pictures, according to an exclusive report from Deadline.

The project, which remains largely under wraps, is being developed by Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert, the Oscar-winning filmmakers behind Everything Everywhere All at Once. The movie is expected to be a major studio production and is currently scheduled for release on November 19, 2027.

According to the report, Ryan Gosling had previously been linked to the lead role earlier this year. However, scheduling conflicts reportedly prevented the collaboration from moving forward, prompting Universal to pursue Damon instead.

The potential casting would reunite Damon with Universal shortly after his involvement in Christopher Nolan’s upcoming adaptation of The Odyssey. Damon recently completed production on the large-scale project and had reportedly planned to take time off following an intense filming schedule before becoming interested in the Daniels’ new screenplay.

Sources cited by Deadline claim Damon met with the directing duo in recent weeks and responded positively to the project. Production is expected to begin later this summer in Los Angeles after Damon completes promotional duties for The Odyssey, which is scheduled for release in July.

Plot details for the Daniels’ film have not yet been revealed, though reports suggest the cast will feature a mix of younger talent alongside a major lead actor.

The Daniels, who swept the Academy Awards in 2023 with Everything Everywhere All at Once, have spent the last several years developing the project under their production company Playgrounds as part of an overall deal with Universal Pictures.

Universal and Damon’s representatives have not officially commented on the reported negotiations.