'Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2' release date news: Kurt Russell confirmed to play Star Lord's dad

Marvel Studios

Although fans have to wait a bit longer for a sequel to the hit "Guardians of the Galaxy" movie, details are now being confirmed for the upcoming "Vol. 2" installment. One confirmed detail is the Star Lord's father will figure in the movie, to be portrayed by Kurt Russell.

One of the questions in the closing of "Guardians of the Galaxy" film left hanging was the identity of Star Lord's (Chris Pratt) father. At the recent San Diego Comic-Con, it was revealed that Kurt Russell will be one of the cast members in the sequel, playing Ego, or the Living Planet.

At the Marvel Studios panel at the event, director James Gunn teased that the upcoming sequel – although a continuation of the original movie – will focus more on Peter Quill's journey in discovering his parentage, with the rest of the gang tagging along.

The official synopsis for "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2" reads, "Set to the backdrop of 'Awesome Mixtape #2,' Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 continues the team's adventures as they traverse the outer reaches of the cosmos. The Guardians must fight to keep their newfound family together as they unravel the mysteries of Peter Quill's true parentage. Old foes become new allies and fan-favorite characters from the classic comics will come to our heroes' aid as the Marvel cinematic universe continues to expand."

This hints that some of the characters from the first movie are also set to return. Aside from Chris Pratt and his team, fans expect to see Michael Rooker as Yondu, Karen Gillan as Nebula, and Sean Gunn as Kraglin. "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2" is scheduled to open on May 5 next year.