During a recent interview with Variety, Ridley Scott revealed that he is no longer directing the Untitled Blade Runner Project, although he is still on board to produce. The filmmaker did reveal that production will take place sometime next year, but he didn't offer any specifics on why he isn't directing.

The director originally developed the sequel screenplay with Blade Runner writer Hampton Fancher, before Michael Green (Green Lantern) came aboard last May. Here's what Ridley Scott had to say about coming up with the story alongside Hampton Fancher. He also confirmed that Harrison Ford will return as Rick Deckard and offered new story details.

"We talked at length about what it could be, and came up with a pretty strong three-act storyline, and it all makes sense in terms of how it relates to the first one. Harrison is very much part of this one, but really it's about finding him; he comes in in the third act."

Oddly enough, we reported in August that another Ridley Scott sequel, Prometheus 2, may be getting delayed because he planned to direct Untitled Blade Runner Project after The Martian, which is currently in production. It's possible that it could be the other way around, and the filmmaker's commitment to Prometheus 2 may have forced him to step away from directing the Untitled Blade Runner Project. Regardless, the Untitled Blade Runner Project is still reportedly set to start shooting next year. Are you upset that Ridley Scott won't be at the helm? Who should replace him? Chime in with your thoughts below.