Jeff Goldblum will return for Independence Day 2

Director Roland Emmerich has cranked up the ‘Independence Day 2’ excitement – revealing original star Jeff Goldblum will return for the long-awaited sci-fi sequel.

Goldblum’s in good company though, as the destruction-loving director also confirmed fighter pilot turned badass President Bill Pullman was definitely back on board and ready to give E.T. what for.

[No Will Smith for Independence Day 2]

[How to survive a movie apocalypse]

Speaking at a fan Q&A with Movies.com to promote his latest dramatic redesign of the President’s place, ‘White House Down’, Emmerich revealed ‘Jurassic Park’ star Goldblum would be returning as David Levinson - the eco-minded computer wiz who ends up literally saving the planet.

Whilst Bill Pullman had previously hinted at his return, admitting producers had approached him, Emmerich’s confirmation is good news for fans of spirited movie speeches and super patriotic US clichés.

[Independence Day 2 lands release date]

These latest casting announcements come as a relief following the director’s recent comments to The New York Daily that Will Smith would not be returning for the sequel, reportedly dubbed ‘ID Forever’, because the star was “too expensive”.

However Emmerich offered some hope to Fresh Prince fans, admitting to Movies.com that he hadn’t presented Smith the final product, and hopes to get star on board for a “pass the torch” style cameo.

Still excited to see ‘Independence Day 2’, out 3 July 2015, or will it just not work without Smith? Let us know in the comments below.