Finally, after months of speculation, the director of "Furious 8" has been confirmed: F. Gary Gray will helm the hotly-anticipated sequel.

Gray, who also directed summer hit "Straight Outta Compton," broke the news himself on Twitter, writing that he had taken the gig and was "excited" to get to work on the flick. Star Vin Diesel had previously indicated on Facebook that Gray was his top choice to take the reins, and that the two had met to discuss Gray boarding the franchise.


The director has a big job on his hands (and possibly an entire trilogy to wrangle), following the record-breaking success of "Furious 7" at the international box office, though he seems well-equipped for the challenge. "Compton" was a surprise smash, making more than $150 million on a $20 million budget; if Gray brings the same magic touch to "Furious 8," the sky may be the limit on the flick's box office glory.

"Furious 8" -- which, if Gray's Twitter photo is any indication, may be rebranding itself yet again as "FF8," "Fast & Furious 8," or possibly even "Fast Family 8" -- is due in theaters on April 14, 2017.

[via: F. Gary Gray]

Photo credit: Getty Images