The Social Network 2: Eisenberg Out, New Zuckerberg Ahead

A potential sequel to The Social Network — the Oscar-winning film that chronicled the rise of Facebook — is once again making headlines. But fans hoping to see Jesse Eisenberg reprise his role as Mark Zuckerberg might be in for a surprise. The actor has confirmed he is unlikely to return, leaving the door wide open for a new face to portray the controversial tech billionaire in The Social Network Part II.

Jesse Eisenberg Confirms Exit: “I Wouldn’t Feel Comfortable Doing It Now”

In a recent interview, Jesse Eisenberg made it clear that he does not see himself returning as Zuckerberg if the rumored sequel moves forward. The actor, who earned widespread praise (and an Oscar nomination) for his performance in the original 2010 film, expressed both personal and creative reasons for distancing himself from a sequel.

“I wouldn’t feel comfortable playing him again,” Eisenberg said in a press conversation. “I played a character that was intentionally written to be very different from the real person. But things have changed. The world has changed.”

According to Eisenberg, portraying Zuckerberg in 2025 would be a completely different task compared to 2010. The first film focused on the early days of Facebook, from its creation in a Harvard dorm room to its explosive growth — with some dramatized liberties. But a sequel would likely explore Zuckerberg’s more recent controversies: misinformation, data privacy scandals, and his role in global politics through the Meta empire.

The actor's comments suggest that he feels the tone of the original film — part satire, part origin story — no longer fits the present-day reality. While he hasn't completely ruled out appearing in the project, he emphasized that playing Zuckerberg now feels like “a different job.”

Jesse Eisenberg has currently decided not to return as Mark Zuckerberg in ‘THE SOCIAL NETWORK 2’

Jeremy Strong is the top choice to take over the part. pic.twitter.com/1N82HjPvro

— Film Updates (@FilmUpdates) July 31, 2025

What Could a Sequel Cover — And Who Might Play Zuckerberg This Time?

Rumors of The Social Network Part II have been circulating for years. Screenwriter Aaron Sorkin has previously mentioned having “enough material for another movie,” especially given Facebook’s involvement in political manipulation, the Cambridge Analytica scandal, and the ongoing criticism surrounding Meta's role in online safety.

If the project moves forward, the big question is: who might take over the role of Zuckerberg?

Here are a few actors fans and industry insiders are speculating about:

• Paul Dano – Known for his subtle intensity and socially awkward characters (The Batman, There Will Be Blood), Dano could bring depth to an older, more morally complex Zuckerberg.

• Rami Malek – With an Oscar already under his belt and a talent for portraying enigmatic figures (Bohemian Rhapsody, Mr. Robot), Malek is another strong contender.

• Barry Keoghan – The Irish actor (Saltburn, The Banshees of Inisherin) has a unique screen presence and could capture Zuckerberg’s evolution into a more reserved, corporate figure.

• Nicholas Hoult – With roles in The Great and Renfield, Hoult has proven range and could portray Zuckerberg’s blend of brilliance and emotional distance.

Of course, nothing has been officially confirmed — and there’s always the possibility that a lesser-known actor could surprise everyone with a breakout performance.

Meanwhile, fans are also wondering whether other original cast members — like Andrew Garfield (Eduardo Saverin) or Justin Timberlake (Sean Parker) — might return if the sequel goes into production.

What We Know About a Possible Sequel So Far

• Aaron Sorkin, the original screenwriter, has said he’s open to writing a follow-up if the story is “compelling enough.”

• David Fincher, the director of the first film, has not publicly commented on a sequel — but insiders say he could return if the script lives up to the original’s sharp storytelling.

• The sequel would likely focus on events post-2016: Facebook’s involvement in political campaigns, whistleblower accounts, and the shift toward the Metaverse.

• No official release date or casting details have been announced yet.

 

 

 

 

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For now, The Social Network Part II remains in development limbo. But with Eisenberg stepping back and the real-life story of Facebook becoming even more complicated, there's clearly a lot of material for Hollywood to explore — and a new generation of actors ready to take on the challenge.