Two legendary drummers set to cameo in ‘This Is Spinal Tap’ sequel
As production for the long-awaited sequel to the cult 1984 mockumentary This Is Spinal Tap gets underway, two legendary musicians have been added to the constantly-evolving cast. The film is already slated to feature cameos from the likes of Elton John and Paul McCartney, but these new additions are due to give some representation to 1990s alternative rock and metal.
Metallica’s Lars Ulrich and Chad Smith of Red Hot Chilli Peppers will both feature in cameo roles in the upcoming film. At the time of writing, the specific details surrounding their roles are up for debate, but it is likely they will make up the revolving cast of disposable drummers the fictitious band gets through. Whether they will die “in a bizarre gardening accident” or spontaneously combust like their predecessors remains to be seen.
The announcement of Ulrich and Smith, first reported by Deadline, came alongside more cast news. It has been revealed that Fran Drescher will reprise her role as Bobbi Flekman, the publicist featured in the original film. The sequel will feature some younger faces too, with the inclusion of actors including Griffin Matthews and Brad Williams, as well as a few notable British comics in Kerry Godliman, Nina Conti and Chris Addison.
The original Spinal Tap formed the directorial debut of Rob Reiner, who has since gone on to produce Academy Award-nominated work like A Few Good Men, in addition to cult classics like The Princess Bride, When Harry Met Sally and Misery.
At long last, Reiner has returned to his roots, directing and starring in This Is Spinal Tap 2, to the joy of fans everywhere. The sequel will also feature the same key cast of Christopher Guest, Harry Shearer and Michael McKean, though the infamous manager, played by Tony Hendra, will be tragically absent, after the actor passed away in 2021.
Originally, the sequel was due to be released in early 2024, but that deadline has passed. Filming is still in process for the movie, therefore, the actual release date of This Is Spinal Tap 2 is still firmly in the future. It is thought that the production was impacted by the WGA writer’s strike last year, which put a hold on many television and film productions.
Revisit a classic clip for 1984’s This Is Spinal Tap below, which may shed some light on the fate of Lars Ulrich and Chad Smith.
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