Just a few days ago we learned that Tony Gilroy would be directing the fourth installment to the BOURNE series of films. The official announcement was met with some criticism, as many people felt Gilroy was not the ideal choice for project moving forward. Now we have news that may enrage even more fans of the series.

According to Gilroy in an interview with Hollywood Elsewhere, Matt Damon will not be in the film. Don't cry yet little "Bournies," there is still some hope. Read on for more details.

Here's what Tony Gilroy had to say about THE BOURNE LEGACY...

"It's a completely original screenplay." Secondly, "This is not a reboot or a recast or a prequel. No one's replacing Matt Damon. There will be a whole new hero, a whole new chapter...this is a stand-alone project. The easiest way to think of it is an expansion or a reveal. Jason Bourne will not be in this film, but he's very much alive. What happened in the first three films is the trigger for what happens. I'm building a legend and an environment and a wider conspiracy...the world we're making enhances and advances and invites Jason Bourne's return [down the road]."

So there is still hope. I actually like the idea of an expanding universe that will introduce new characters and conspiracies. It also sounds like THE BOURNE LEGACY will lead into another film in which Jason Bourne can return to karate-chop and run really fast around in.

Source Hollywood Elsewhere , via Cinematical