Independence Day 2 is happening — without Will Smith

Nearly 20 years after the original Independence Day became an $800 million hit, a sequel is finally happening — but its most recognizable star won't be a part of it.

Deadline reports that while 20th Century Fox has officially given a greenlight to Independence Day 2, Will Smith has turned down an offer to reprise his role as the Marine Corps fighter pilot who helped to destroy the alien mothership. The report adds that if Smith does change his mind, the film's creative team would likely write him in "in a heartbeat."

Fortunately, Independence Day's ensemble cast also included such luminaries as Bill Pullman, Jeff Goldblum, and Randy Quaid, so there's a good chance somebody will carry over from the original. The sequel is currently scheduled for release on June 24, 2016.

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