Hollywood is buzzing again as Aaron Sorkin, the Oscar-winning screenwriter behind The Social Network, prepares to revisit Facebook’s legacy with a powerful follow-up film. Though unofficially referred to as The Social Network Part II, the upcoming project is not a direct sequel, but a deeper exposé inspired by The Facebook Files, the explosive 2021 investigative series by The Wall Street Journal.
The new movie aims to shine a light on the darker chapters of Meta’s journey—touching on misinformation, algorithmic bias, teen mental health, and political influence. While Sony is developing the film, it hasn’t been fully green-lit yet. Sorkin is set to both write and direct, with returning producers Todd Black, Peter Rice, and Stuart Besser on board.
Why Jesse Eisenberg Won’t Return as Zuckerberg
Jesse Eisenberg, who famously portrayed Mark Zuckerberg in the original 2010 film, has reportedly declined to reprise the role. Sources close to the production say Eisenberg no longer feels comfortable representing Zuckerberg, citing ethical concerns with the Meta CEO’s real-world actions over the past decade. This decision has opened the door for a fresh face to take on the role.
Jeremy Strong as the New Zuckerberg?
Enter Jeremy Strong—the Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actor known for his gripping portrayal of Kendall Roy in HBO’s Succession. Strong is now in talks to lead the new film, possibly taking over the role of Zuckerberg. His intense, method-driven acting style makes him a compelling candidate for portraying a more complex, morally ambiguous version of the tech mogul.
Interestingly, producers are also considering Strong for the role of a Wall Street Journal editor who was key in exposing the Facebook Files. No casting has been finalized, and no official offers have been made, but industry insiders suggest Strong is the top contender.
What Are The Facebook Files?
Published in 2021 by The Wall Street Journal, The Facebook Files unveiled thousands of leaked documents from within Meta. These revelations exposed:
- How high-profile users received preferential treatment from moderation systems
- Internal research proving Instagram’s harmful effect on teen mental health—especially among girls
- Facebook’s struggles and failures in controlling hate speech and misinformation
- Alleged connections between Facebook’s algorithmic decisions and real-world violence, including the January 6 Capitol riot
This damning collection of reports has become the foundation for Sorkin’s new screenplay, transforming the film’s tone from courtroom drama to investigative thriller.
A Shift in Tone and Focus
Unlike the original Social Network, which explored the early days of Facebook’s creation and the fallout between co-founders, the new film will take a more mature, global view of the platform’s power and consequences. Sorkin appears determined to portray not just the people behind the company—but the real-world implications of their decisions.
Themes expected to be covered include:
- The impact of algorithms on public opinion
- Internal suppression of ethical concerns from employees
- Instagram’s toxic impact on youth
- Political manipulation and platform irresponsibility
Other Casting Rumors
The production is currently in the early stages of casting, with several high-profile names being floated:
- Mikey Madison is rumored to be in talks to play Frances Haugen, the former Facebook employee turned whistleblower who leaked the documents to the press.
- Jeremy Allen White, star of The Bear, is being considered to portray Jeff Horwitz, the lead journalist behind The Facebook Files.
So far, no one from the original cast—including Andrew Garfield or Justin Timberlake—has been confirmed or attached to the sequel.
Why Jeremy Strong Is the Right Fit
Strong has proven his ability to dive deep into psychologically layered characters. His performance as Kendall Roy captured the internal chaos of a power-hungry but emotionally fragile businessman. This emotional range aligns well with the darker, morally conflicted version of Zuckerberg that the sequel seems poised to portray.
Strong also brings prestige. With a history of working with A-list directors and writers, including Aaron Sorkin in Molly’s Game, his return to collaborate on this project makes sense creatively and commercially.
Behind the Scenes: Who’s Making the Film?
- Writer/Director: Aaron Sorkin
- Producers: Todd Black, Peter Rice, Stuart Besser
- Studio: Sony Pictures Entertainment
Although David Fincher, who directed the original film, is not returning, Sorkin’s dual role as writer and director gives him full creative control this time around.
Cultural Relevance
The original Social Network was more than a movie—it became a cultural touchstone. It grossed over $224 million worldwide and won 3 Academy Awards, including Best Adapted Screenplay. The film was praised for its razor-sharp dialogue and portrayal of ambition, betrayal, and tech disruption.
This new film could capture a similarly powerful cultural moment—this time not about innovation, but accountability.
Challenges AheadCreating a movie that dramatizes recent real-world controversies is never simple. The production must carefully:
- Secure legal clearance to portray real figures
- Handle sensitive topics like teen mental health and political unrest
- Avoid turning the script into a one-sided attack or propaganda piece
With Sorkin’s track record for nuance and intelligence, many fans believe he’s the perfect person to take on that responsibility.
Expected Timeline
While there’s no official release date yet, development is moving quickly behind the scenes. Scriptwriting is underway, casting discussions are active, and once finalized, production could begin as early as mid-2025. A theatrical release in 2026 seems likely if all proceeds smoothly.
Conclusion
Aaron Sorkin’s new Facebook film could be the most culturally relevant tech movie of the decade. By shifting the focus from creation to consequence, The Social Network Part II offers a bold look into the power and perils of Big Tech.
With Jeremy Strong possibly leading, a whistleblower-focused plot, and The Facebook Files as its foundation, this sequel is shaping up to be more than just a continuation—it’s a confrontation.
Stay tuned. This is one story that’s just getting started.
