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It was announced this week that Scott Eastwood has joined the growing cast of Fast 8 [2]. While many fans of the popular franchise were immediately excited by the news, the actor [3] 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 [4] will also be seen in the upcoming Suicide Squad movie [5], 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 [6]!