'The Matrix 4': Why Agent Smith Will Not Be Returning

The familiar villain Agent Smith (Hugo Weaving) will not return in “The Matrix 4.” The character was the primary antagonist for Neo (Keanu Reeves) inside the system in the previous movies.

In an interview with Time Out, Weaving confirmed that he was offered to reprise his role as Agent Smith, but he had to decline because of scheduling conflict. The actor explained that he was keen on this role, but he could not make it work because he was a part of “The Visit.”

In the previous movies, Agent Smith started his journey as a regular program that was designed to catch troublemakers like Morpheus (Laurence Fishburne). However, he evolved into a virus who was threatening to take over the entire Matrix before Neo stopped him.

According to Screen Rant, it is possible the producers have written off the Agent Smith character or they can cast someone else to play the role. They have done this in the past with the Oracle character that was initially played by Gloria Foster and it was later taken over by Mary Alice.

Details about the plot of “The Matrix 4” are currently being kept under wraps. A big question is how characters like Neo and Trinity (Carrie-Anne Moss) can return after the events in the last movie.

According to a theory by Screen Rant, the characters’ return can be explained from the plot of “The Matrix Online” game. In the game, the Machines experimented with Trinity’s DNA to turn it into a computer code, which is something that can be used in the movie to bring the character back.

“The Matrix 4” is being directed by Lana Wachowski. The film is set to be released on May 21, 2021. More details about the cast and the plot may be released in the coming months.