Jesse Eisenberg, known for his portrayal of Mark Zuckerberg in David Fincher’s 2010 film “The Social Network,” has announced he will not be returning for the upcoming sequel, “The Social Reckoning.” The actor-director, currently at the Karlovy Vary Film Festival where he received the President’s Award, cited a desire to no longer be associated with Zuckerberg.

During an in-conversation event, Eisenberg addressed questions about his potential involvement in the sequel.

He explained that his perspective on Zuckerberg and social media has evolved since the original film's release.

“I don’t want to be associated with him anymore because I don’t really like the comparison,” Eisenberg stated, adding, “If this guy is the creator of this world, I don’t want to live in that world.” This decision marks a significant shift for the actor, who garnered critical acclaim for his original performance.

For the sequel, “Succession” star Jeremy Strong has been cast as Mark Zuckerberg.

The film will also feature Mikey Madison, an Oscar-winner for “Anora,” as Frances Haugen, a young Facebook engineer, and Jeremy Allen White from “The Bear” as a Wall Street Journal reporter.

Eisenberg reflected on his initial casting for “The Social Network,” recalling how director David Fincher described Zuckerberg as someone whose thoughts were inscrutable, making him an “unnerving” character to play.

At the time, Eisenberg noted, Zuckerberg was not widely known, and the film felt like an exploration of an interesting character rather than a public figure.

Beyond his acting career, Jesse Eisenberg also discussed his work as a director.

He acknowledged the mixed reception for his directorial debut, “When You Finish Saving the World,” particularly regarding Julianne Moore’s character.

However, he noted a different response to Kieran Culkin’s similarly “cruel” character in his acclaimed sophomore effort, “A Real Pain,” suggesting a potential gender bias in audience perception.

Eisenberg is currently promoting his next directorial project, A24’s “The Debut,” starring Julianne Moore and Paul Giamatti, set for a December 3rd release in the U.S.

He praised A24 for its commitment to quality filmmaking, contrasting it with the more commercially driven approach often found in Hollywood.

He also highlighted the benefits of European film funding models, which he believes prioritize artistic vision over immediate financial returns, allowing for more creative freedom and longer production schedules.