Jeremy Strong in talks for ‘The Social Network’ sequel as Jesse Eisenberg bows out

Jeremy Strong is in discussions to join the cast of The Social Network Part II, the upcoming sequel to Aaron Sorkin’s Oscar-winning 2010 drama. The Succession star is reportedly one of several high-profile actors in talks for key roles, as the film moves closer to production at Sony.

Written and directed by Sorkin, the new film draws from The Facebook Files, a series of investigative articles by Wall Street Journal reporter Jeff Horwitz. It will explore the aftermath of Facebook’s rise — particularly its internal knowledge of how the platform contributed to misinformation, youth mental health issues, and the events of January 6, 2021.

Strong joins Mikey Madison and Jeremy Allen White as part of the shortlist of actors being considered. Madison is reportedly in line to play whistleblower Frances Haugen, while White may portray the journalist who broke the Facebook Files story. No deals have been finalised, but the project is considered a top priority for the studio.

The most intriguing casting speculation surrounds Strong’s potential role. Sources suggest he could play either a senior Wall Street Journal editor or more notably, Facebook founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg. That possibility has gained momentum following reports that Jesse Eisenberg, who portrayed Zuckerberg in the original film, has passed on returning to the role.

Eisenberg, who earned an Oscar nomination for his 2010 performance, has not publicly commented. Some industry insiders suggest his decision could be a negotiating strategy, while others cite age as a factor — with Eisenberg now 41, he would be playing a Zuckerberg in his mid-30s.

Sorkin’s sequel promises a more critical take on the social media giant’s influence, contrasting the original film’s focus on ambition and betrayal during Facebook’s early years. The project is still in development, with casting and budgeting ongoing.