Jungle Cruise arrived in theaters and on Disney+'s access last Friday, and based on the opening weekend numbers touted by the studio, it's fair to say the movie is a hit. That might explain why Dwayne Johnson has already met with Disney to discuss a sequel, and if it does happen, we'd definitely like to see more of Veronica Falcón's Trader Sam.
A reinvented version of the classic Disneyland character, this Trader Sam happens to be a she instead of a he. Crucially, unlike the stereotype of indigenous cultures that's featured in the theme park, Falcón's version is a fleshed-out character in her own right who proves to be key to this blockbuster adventure.
We'll bring you our full interview with Veronica soon, but during our chat with the Ozark star last night, we had to ask if she would be on board with returning as Trader Sam in Jungle Cruise 2.
"Of course, I would love to play her again and would love to work with them if they invite me," she exclaimed. "If they don't invite me, I'm still going to love watching a second Jungle Cruise. I think it's a movie the audience is really loving and they're enjoying it."
"Nowadays, it's very important after the pandemic and everything we've through as humankind just to be united and to go and watch something joyful and fun and makes us laugh. It makes us enjoy one another. I think that's very important. So being part of If I'm invited to it again, I'd love to do it, but If I'm not, I'll be cheering in the audience for them because I think it'll be a great film."
There's definitely more ground to explore with Trader Sam given the unique relationship she has with Frank, and as fans of the Jungle Cruise ride have responded so positively, it would be crazy not to bring Veronica and the character back. We'll just have to wait and see where the sequel takes us.
Check back here soon for more from the Jungle Cruise star, including what it was like to work with Dwayne Johnson, her big action scene, which Disneyland ride she'd like to see become a movie, and more!