This shouldn't be a surprise at all. Furious 7 may have been marred by tragedy when star Paul Walker died suddenly during the film's production, but Furious 7 was also ridiculously successful at the box office. Tragedy or not, there's no way a sequel wouldn't get made.

And now that sequel has an official release date. It's been revealed that the eight Fast and Furious film (what's being called Fast & Furious 8 until an official title gets out) will have a release date of April 14, 2017. Vin Diesel recently spoke about his love for the film, the franchise, the fans and his former co-star Paul Walker.

"It means a lot to me to get your blessing. We were giddy and excited. You all gave me so much confidence. There was so much love."

Obviously, Diesel and the rest of the cast love the Fast & Furious franchise as much as the millions who flock to see it every time it's in theaters.

Here's more surprising news- Paul Walker's brother Cody Walker may actually star in the next film. After his brother's death, Cody filled in for Paul when filming the last bits and pieces of Furious 7, with his brother's face digitally imprinted over his. It's not likely at all that Cody would undergo the same procedure to play Brian O'Conner again (not after all the effort Furious 7 went through to give Paul Walker such a touching send-off), but he'll probably be cast in the franchise as a new character next time around.

The Fast & Furious franchise has slowly evolved from street racing films to heist films to espionage films, and it's likely Furious 8 will be as spy-like as Furious 7. And of course, they'll have to come up with a new title. Here's a thought- set the film in Australia this time, and call it G'Day Faster, M8. Or (because that's a terrible idea) maybe not.