AceShowbiz - Ocean's 11 is set to expand its universe with Bradley Cooper reportedly in talks to write, direct, and star in a new prequel for Warner Bros., sources reveal to TheWrap. This development comes shortly after director Lee Isaac Chung exited the project due to creative disagreements.

Though no official agreements have been finalized, Warner Bros. is eager to move forward and aims to begin production on the film before the end of the year. Margot Robbie continues to be attached to the project as both lead actress and producer through her LuckyChap banner.

The prequel is expected to be set during the 1960s, but with Cooper's potential involvement as screenwriter, the storyline may evolve. Initially, Ryan Gosling was considered to star opposite Robbie but has since dropped out.

If the deal proceeds, Cooper would follow his recent pattern of helming projects where he serves as writer, director, and lead actor. His 2018 remake of A Star Is Born earned critical acclaim and multiple Oscar nominations, a success he followed with 2023's Leonard Bernstein biopic Maestro, which also received numerous Academy nods including Best Picture.

Most recently, he co-wrote, directed, and co-starred in the dramedy Is This Thing On?, released in the fall of last year.

Warner Bros. has long sought ways to broaden the Ocean's franchise, which began with Steven Soderbergh’s 2001 hit remake. That film led to two sequels: Ocean's Twelve (2004) and Ocean's Thirteen (2007). The franchise was revitalized in 2018 with the female-led spinoff Ocean's 8, headlined by Sandra Bullock and Cate Blanchett.

In addition, a direct sequel titled Ocean's Fourteen is underway, featuring the return of stars like George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and Julia Roberts. David Leitch is attached to direct after Soderbergh stepped away. Clooney has described this follow-up as a Going in Style-style story focusing on the group attempting another heist later in life.

The news of Cooper’s involvement in the prequel was initially reported by Puck’s Matt Belloni, marking an exciting new chapter for the beloved franchise.