Ebon Moss-Bachrach in Final Talks for Heat 2 Role
Ebon Moss-Bachrach, known for his role in FX’s The Bear, is in final negotiations to join Michael Mann’s Heat 2 as the character Kelso. The role marks a significant casting for the long-anticipated sequel to Mann’s 1995 crime thriller Heat.
Kelso is a mysterious former DARPA researcher and hacker who provides crucial intelligence to Neil McCauley’s criminal operation. In the original film, the character was portrayed by Tom Noonan, who passed away in February 2026 at age 74. Moss-Bachrach, a two-time Emmy Award winner, will bring his talents to this reimagining of the role.
The Heat 2 project has assembled a notable ensemble cast. Leonardo DiCaprio is set to play Chris Shiherlis, a role originally performed by Val Kilmer. Christian Bale will take on the role of Detective Vincent Hanna, which was made iconic by Al Pacino in the original film. Stephen Graham is also joining the cast, replacing Robert De Niro from the 1995 version.
Heat 2 represents a significant moment in Hollywood as major stars return to revisit a classic crime film with a new generation of talent. The sequel has been in development for several years, with Mann directing and developing the project based on his 2023 novelization of Heat’s story.