By Lindsey Bahr, Film Writer
LOS ANGELES (AP) --F. Gary Gray, who made waves this summer with his profitable and critically acclaimed N.W.A biopic "Straight Outta Compton," has been set to direct the eighth film in the "Fast & Furious" franchise.
Gray announced the news on his Facebook page on Thursday and Universal Pictures confirmed.
Star and producer Vin Diesel posted a photo of himself and Gray with some "Fast & Furious" images on Facebook earlier this week, hinting that the "Compton" director was indeed the front runner to take over the extremely successful series.
"Furious 7," released earlier this year, grossed a staggering $1.5 billion worldwide. James Wan directed that film, which featured Paul Walker's final appearance in the series. Walker died in 2013.
The eighth installment is set for an April 14, 2017 release.
Jean Smart, Ariana Grande, Michael Keaton among hosts for “SNL” season 50
Fresh off her Emmys win, Jean Smart will kick off the landmark 50th season of "Saturday Night Live."
NBC on Thursday announced the lineup of hosts for the season, which premieres Sept. 28. Joining Smart on the first show will be Jelly Roll as the musical act. He was also at the Emmys, singing during the ceremony's in memoriam segment.
It will be Smart's first time hosting "SNL."
Comedian Nate Bargatze will host on Oct. 5, with Coldplay as the musical guest.
Ariana Grande will host Oct. 12, with musical guest Stevie Nicks.
"Beetlejuice" star Michael Keaton will host on Oct. 19, the last show before Halloween, and Billie Eilish will be that night's musical guest.
The host on Nov. 2 will be "SNL" alum John Mulaney, with breakout sensation Chappell Roan as the music guest.
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