Channing Tatum May Direct Magic Mike 2

Given the success of this year’s Magic Mike, it was inevitable that sequel talk would start at some point. After all, once you make a movie for $7 million that takes in $113 in the US alone, you know you’ve got something. Tatum has already been talking up follow-up ideas, and a few more details have emerged, including who the actor / producer thinks could direct it. Hint: the list includes one Channington P Tatum.

Yes, with Steven Soderbergh still planning to go on hiatus after finishing Behind The Candelabra, it’s unlikely he’ll be tempted back to make the Mike sequel. Tatum has told German site Filmstarts (with a helpful translation from the gang at The Playlist) that he could well take the gig, possibly working alongside writer and producing pal Reid Carolin. However, he’s not made any plans just yet, and goes on to suggest Criminal director and veteran Soderbergh assistant director Gregory Jacobs as a strong contender.

Plot-wise, it appears Tatum definitely has an idea for where the story of Mike and co might head next. "You know, we are talking a lot about it. We have a story, and it is really ridiculous and fun. It's a road movie sort of thing, where a bunch of strippers get back together. It's more of a broad comedy. I don't know whether it will happen or not."

For now, though, he seems content to focus on the Broadway musical version of the show, which is still in the works and has reached the stage of negotiating a bulk rate for thong repair glue (we imagine).