‘Independence Day 2’ Will Not Welcome Will Smith To Earf

Will Smith won't be returning to planet Earf in the upcoming sequel to Independence Day. At least that's what director Roland Emmerich is claiming.

'Will Smith cannot come back because he's too expensive,' Emmerich said in an interview with NY Daily News, 'but he'd also be too much of a marquee name. It would be too much.'

Other characters from the film will be returning, including President Thomas Whitmore played by Bill Pullman, who apparently isn't 'too much of a marquee name.' According to Emmerich, when all is said and done, about 50% of the original cast will return.

Keep in mind that Emmerich is German, so he clearly can't be taken at his word, and this may all be an elaborate ruse. Also, don't rule out the possibility of Smith being replaced by his son Jaden who at this point in time is definitely not too expensive.