Scott Eastwood Posts a Beautiful Tribute to Paul Walker After Joining the Cast of Fast 8

It was announced this week that Scott Eastwood has joined the growing cast of Fast 8. While many fans of the popular franchise were immediately excited by the news, the actor took to Instagram on Monday to share a much more personal reason for his decision to become part of the beloved movies. In a heartfelt message, he wrote:

"It's hard to put into words how excited I am for the next Fast & Furious. To me, the series is so much more than just a franchise. It's a legacy. These great actors who have been in it together for so long have become a family. I absolutely can't wait to join it. Now I can't say too much, but I get to play a new character who operates under Kurt Russell in the movie, which is incredible, because Kurt was a total childhood hero of mine growing up. Very much looking forward to learning a thing or two from such an original and cool guy. Paul was a close friend of mine. We surfed together, traveled together, and he was a huge role model and influencing figure in my life when I was younger. He still is. He was an older brother to me. For me to be able to add to the F&F story, Paul's story, and the FAST family is like a dream come true. Gary Gray and Neal Moritz - I can't wait to get started and dive in. Vin - thank you for the support and the insight. Paul - I am going to make you proud. #F8"

The exciting news is just the latest addition to Scott's busy schedule. The handsome actor will also be seen in the upcoming Suicide Squad movie, which hits theaters on Aug. 5. See the photo he posted alongside his message above, and then check out the release date for Fast 8!