In 2013, Syfy set the world on storm — literally — by airing a movie that combined the horror of Jaws with the terrifying weather of Twister, which was simply known as Sharknado.
In spite of its low budget and laughable plot, that movie went on to become one of the biggest hits for the network. Not only did its ratings soar through the roof, but it became one of the most talked-about films ever on social media.
The beauty of Sharknado was that it never took itself too seriously, which is one of the reasons it was so successful. Of course, that success meant that there was also a Sharknado 2 and a Sharknado 3, two films that also captured audiences' imaginations, funny bones and social media time.
Last summer, Syfy announced that it wasn't done with the Sharknado franchise and announced a fourth film in the series. On Wednesday, the network released its first casting announcement, along with a few details about what fans can expect from the next movie.
Sharknado 3 ended on a cliffhanger, with fans not knowing if April survives the events of that film. Syfy immediately started a social media campaign after the movie aired with hashtags #AprilLives and #AprilDies to decide the character's fate. Fans will finally learn what happens to her in Sharknado 4.
"Syfy and The Asylum announced today that Ian Ziering will slay again in Sharknado 4 (working title), reprising his role as shark-fighting hero Fin Shepard, while Tara Reid is set to return as April Wexler to reveal the outcome of the fan-voted #AprilLives or #AprilDies social campaign," wrote Syfy in an email press release. "The fourth addition to the hit global franchise also sees the return of David Hasselhoff as Gil Shepard and Ryan Newman as Claudia Shepard."
However, that's not all, because Syfy also announced additional casting for the film, offering up a few hints about the movie's plot, including information on when Sharknado 4 takes place: five years after the events of Sharknado 3: Oh, Hell No.
Gary Busey will play April's father, Wilford, a lead scientist for the robotics division of a company called Astro-X. In Living Color's Tommy Davidson will play Aston Reynolds, a "playboy tech millionaire" who has the know-how to prevent tornadoes. Hannah Montana's Cody Linley is Matt, Fin and April's oldest son, who is now in the army. Imani Hakim (Everybody Hates Chris) is Gabrielle, Matt's best friend and a fellow soldier. Masiela Lusha (George Lopez) is Gemini, Fin's cousin. Finally, former '80s supermodel Cheryl Tiegs is Raye, Fin's mom.
"Currently filming, Sharknado 4 will include a plethora of additional outrageous and surprising cameos to be announced soon," writes Syfy. "Stay tuned ..."
