Crossroads Sequel in the Works: Ralph Macchio and Steve Vai Ready to Return

Film and guitar fans have a reason to get excited: the 1986 cult classic, Crossroads, might be getting a sequel. Original screenwriter John Fusco and star Ralph Macchio have been talking and already have a plan to bring back this story that marked a generation of blues and rock lovers.

“Ralph and I have talked about it. We’ve got a plan,” Fusco told Guitar World.

The news comes after the success of other long-awaited sequels, like Spinal Tap II: The End Continues, showing there's an appetite for reviving 80s classics. Macchio, who played the young guitar prodigy Eugene “Lightning Boy” Martone, has stayed in touch with Fusco over the years, and the idea of a Crossroads II has always been in the air.

The Seed of the Sequel

As Fusco recounts to Guitar World, conversations with Macchio began with the idea of doing something for the film's anniversary. It was Fusco himself who suggested going a step further and creating a sequel. “He’s like, ‘No shit, really? Do you have an idea?’ I said, ‘Yeah, I have an idea for it,’” the screenwriter shared.

While details about the plot and production timeline remain under wraps, Fusco teased that the sequel will be “exciting to music fans, to blues purists.”

What to Expect from the Story

Ralph Macchio has offered some clues about the possible focus of the new film. In an interview with Guitar World, he commented that the story would take place “years and years later” and would be “less about Eugene Martone and more about someone relevant today.” This suggests a possible shift in the narrative to a new generation of musicians, while maintaining the spirit of the blues that made the original so special.

Even though his character might play a secondary role, Macchio made it clear that he hasn't given up on the idea of seeing this sequel materialize. His enthusiasm bodes well for the project.

Steve Vai's Return as Jack Butler

Perhaps one of the most exciting pieces of news for fans of the film is the potential return of Steve Vai, the virtuoso guitarist who embodied the demonic Jack Butler in the epic guitar duel against Eugene Martone. Vai has expressed his interest in reprising his role.

“I know Ralph wants to kick my ass,” Vai joked to Guitar World. “Jack Butler needs his revenge!”

His return would not only add a touch of nostalgia but would also guarantee the musical quality that was so central to the original film. The possibility of seeing Vai and Macchio together on screen again, even in different capacities, is already generating anticipation.

Why it matters

Crossroads is not just a film about music; it's a story about passion, talent, and the pursuit of an authentic sound. A sequel with its original creators and cast could reconnect old fans with their memories and introduce the magic of the blues to a new audience. It's an opportunity to revive a guitar legend on the big screen.