Fans of the Ghostbusters franchise can mark their calendars as the highly anticipated sequel to “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” is slated to hit theaters on Wednesday, December 20, 2023. However, in a recent interview with Screen Rant, original Ghostbusters star Ernie Hudson revealed that while he is excited to be a part of the new films, they don’t exactly align with the creative direction he would have chosen for the franchise.

“Ghostbusters: Afterlife” stars Finn Wolfhard and Mckenna Grace reprising their roles as Trevor and Phoebe. They are joined by Carrie Coon as Callie, Trevor, and Phoebe’s mother, and Paul Rudd as Gary Grooberson. The cast also includes William Atherton reprising his role as Walter Peck from the first Ghostbusters film, alongside new additions Kumail Nanjiani, Patton Oswalt, James Acaster, and Emily Alyn Lind.

Ernie Hudson, who returns as Winston Zeddemore, discussed his character’s role in “Afterlife.” He mentioned that the film gave Winston a sense of purpose as the one providing financial support to keep the Ghostbusters legacy alive. Hudson acknowledged that while the film introduces new characters and storylines, Winston still has a place within the narrative. He expressed his enjoyment of seeing Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, and Annie Potts back in their roles and their enthusiasm for being a part of the franchise. Hudson admitted that the direction of the new films differs from what he would have envisioned but is thrilled to be involved, believing that fans will appreciate the new direction.

Hudson did not elaborate on his own creative vision for the franchise.

Initially, Jason Reitman, director of “Ghostbusters: Afterlife,” was expected to helm the sequel and co-write the screenplay with Gil Kenan. However, it was later revealed that Kenan would be directing the film. Kenan has previously directed films like “Monster House,” “City of Ember,” “A Boy Called Christmas,” the “Poltergeist” remake, and an episode of the “Scream” TV series.

Upon taking on the directing role, Kenan expressed his honor to be part of the Spengler family saga, while Reitman expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to work with his father, Ivan Reitman, on “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” and his confidence in passing the torch to Kenan.

As fans eagerly await the release of “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” and its follow-up, opinions on the franchise’s creative direction may vary.