The future of Cyberpunk 2 just got a major jolt of energy thanks to one man: Keanu Reeves. The Hollywood icon and fan-favorite actor behind Johnny Silverhand has made it clear—he’s ready to step back into the dystopian streets of Night City.

During a recent interview with IGN, Reeves was asked point-blank if he’d return for CD Projekt Red’s upcoming sequel. His answer was immediate: “Absolutely. I’d love to play Johnny Silverhand again.”

For fans of Cyberpunk 2077, those words are thrilling—but also puzzling. Johnny’s story seemed to come to a close in the first game, leaving many wondering how a return could even work.

The Challenge of Bringing Johnny Back

Johnny Silverhand is one of the most memorable parts of Cyberpunk 2077. His swagger, his moral contradictions, and Reeves’ captivating performance elevated him from NPC to cultural icon. But narratively, his fate was tied heavily to the choices players made in 2077’s branching endings.

Depending on the path chosen, Johnny’s arc wrapped up in ways that felt definitive. Yet, thanks to Cyberpunk’s lore, there are still narrative loopholes. As an engram—a digital construct of human consciousness—Johnny can theoretically be uploaded into different bodies. That small piece of world-building leaves the door cracked open for a return.

Whether CDPR chooses to walk through it is another story.

CDPR’s Silence

The studio has remained silent on Cyberpunk 2, offering no hints on where the sequel will begin or how much of the original cast of characters will return. The game is reportedly still in pre-production, which means major narrative decisions could still be on the table.

It’s possible Johnny could return through flashbacks, dream sequences, or a cameo role. But for him to step back in as a major character? That would require bold storytelling choices, perhaps even the declaration of one “canonical” ending to the first game—something CDPR has so far avoided.

Fan Reactions

The internet exploded as soon as Reeves’ comments dropped. Longtime fans of the series were ecstatic, with many declaring that Cyberpunk 2 “wouldn’t feel the same without Johnny.” Others were more cautious, fearing that shoehorning him back in could undermine the emotional impact of his story in the first game.

“It has to be done with respect,” one Reddit user wrote. “Johnny Silverhand isn’t just Keanu fan service—he’s the heart of 2077. Don’t cheapen that.”

Keanu’s Legacy in Night City

One thing is clear: Keanu Reeves’ portrayal of Johnny Silverhand left a lasting mark on gaming culture. From his unforgettable E3 “breathtaking” moment to his in-game monologues, Reeves helped bridge the gap between Hollywood and video games in a way few actors have managed.

That star power is why CDPR may be tempted to find a way to bring him back, even if only for a cameo.

The Bigger Question

Should Johnny Silverhand return?

It’s a question that goes beyond fan service. If handled well, his reappearance could expand Cyberpunk’s themes of memory, identity, and survival in a digital age. If handled poorly, it could feel like a cynical move to leverage Keanu’s star power.

For now, Reeves has thrown down the gauntlet: he’s ready and willing. The ball is in CDPR’s court.

Conclusion

Keanu Reeves wants Johnny Silverhand back—and his enthusiasm has reignited speculation about Cyberpunk 2. Whether as a flashback, an engram in a new body, or a central character once again, fans now know one thing: if CD Projekt Red calls, Keanu is picking up.

And maybe, just maybe, Night City hasn’t seen the last of its most infamous rockstar rebel.