Warner Bros has confirmed that the release of the upcoming fourth movie in The Matrix franchise is to be delayed by almost a year due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Filming on the unexpected new movie began in early February but was brought to a halt just over a month later as countries around the world entered lockdown in an effort to curb the spread of the deadly disease.

The as-yet untitled new chapter had been due for release on May 22, 2021 but the delays to production have necessitated a change to the new date of April 21, 2022.

The Matrix 4 will see the return of Keanu Reeves as Neo alongside Carrie-Anne Moss and Jada Pinkett Smith. Hugo Weaving had not been in line to reprise his role as Agent Smith due to "scheduling conflicts" but the turmoil caused by coronavirus now opens the possibility that he could return.

The release slot that had been reserved by Warner Bros for The Matrix 4 has now been given to Godzilla vs. Kong.