LONDON — Sir Michael Caine, the legendary two-time Academy Award winner, has officially ended his short-lived retirement to return to the silver screen. At 92 years old, the British icon is set to reprise his role in the upcoming sequel The Last Witch Hunter 2, starring alongside Vin Diesel.
The news comes as a surprise to fans worldwide after Caine announced in late 2023 that the drama The Great Escaper would be his “swan song.” However, recent reports confirm that the veteran actor has been spotted on set, with Diesel himself sharing glimpses of their collaboration. In a series of heartfelt updates, the two actors were seen together, with Diesel even assisting the 92-year-old Caine in a wheelchair between takes of what is being described as a high-stakes action project.
A Career Spanning Eight Decades
Born Maurice Joseph Micklewhite in 1933, Michael Caine’s career has spanned more than 80 years and includes over 130 film credits. Known for his distinctive South London accent and effortless screen presence, Caine became a symbol of 1960s “Cool Britannia” with hits like Alfie, The Italian Job, and Zulu.
His versatility allowed him to transition from leading man to one of the most respected character actors in Hollywood history. Key highlights of his filmography include:
- The Dark Knight Trilogy: His beloved portrayal of Alfred Pennyworth.
- The Cider House Rules: Which earned him his second Oscar for Best Supporting Actor.
- Hannah and Her Sisters: His first Oscar win in 1987.
- Interstellar and Inception: Part of a long-standing creative partnership with director Christopher Nolan.
The Return to “The Last Witch Hunter”
In the original 2015 film, Caine played the 36th Dolan, a priest and mentor to Vin Diesel’s immortal warrior. While the sequel has been in development at Lionsgate for several years, Caine’s involvement was only recently solidified. Sources indicate that the script for the sequel offered a compelling enough arc to lure the actor out of his quiet life in the English countryside.
Public interest in Caine remains at an all-time high. On February 16 2026, social media was abuzz with fans celebrating the “GOAT” (Greatest of All Time) following his recent appearance at the Red Sea International Film Festival. Despite his age, Caine continues to be praised by critics for his “unpretentious approach to acting” and his ability to elevate every project he joins.
While Caine had previously cited mobility issues as a reason for his 2023 retirement, his current work with Diesel suggests a renewed energy. As the film industry looks toward the release of The Last Witch Hunter 2, one thing is certain: the cinema is not quite ready to say goodbye to Sir Michael Caine.