Will Smith back in talks for Independence Day sequel

Will Smith is in talks to reprise his role as Captain Steven Hiller in the upcoming sequel to Independence Day.

Smith first played the role in the original 1996 version of the alien invasion blockbuster, and until now had ruled out the prospect of appearing in the sequel.

However, according to director Roland Emmerich, Smith is now “in talks” to star in the sequel.

Emmerich told Digital Spy that discussions are underway with the actor who memorably vowed to “whoop ET’s ass” in the original.

The German director, whose latest action movie White House Down makes explicit reference to Independence Day’s destruction of the presidential building, said: “I sometimes say no, Will Smith will not be in it because he didn’t want to do it at first. Now we have a meeting planned, we want to talk about it again. Anything can happen.”