'Independence Day 2' cast news: Bill Pullman and Judd Hirsch returning

Almost everyone from the first "Independence Day" film will be returning for its reboot, except the main star. 

During the weekend, filmmaker Roland Emmerich announced that both Judd Hirsch and Bill Pullman will reprise their roles in the upcoming sequel to the hit 1996 sci-fi film. Pullman will return as Thomas J. Whitmore, the former U.S. president who was in charge of the country when aliens attempted to invade Earth. On the other hand, Hirsch will reprise his role as Julius Levinson, the father of satellite technician David Levinson, portrayed by Jeff Goldblum, who is also returning for the new film. 

The actors will join other returning cast members, including Vivica A. Fox who played the role of Jasmine Dubrow, as well as Brent Spiner as Dr. Brackish Okun. 

Their return means the only one allegedly not returning for the sequel is the lead character named Captain Steven Hiller, portrayed by Will Smith in the original "Independence Day."  

The old cast will join the string of new cast members for the planned 2016 movie, including "The Hunger Games" star Liam Hemsworth, "The Conjuring" star Joey King, "The Science of Sleep" actress Charlotte Gansbourg, as well as Travis Tope from the "Boardwalk Empire" TV series. Jessie Usher from "Survivor's Remorse" is also reportedly cast to portray the role of Steven and Jasmine's son Dylan. 

The plot for the upcoming "Independence Day 2" movie is still unannounced, but several speculations claim that Smith's character died after his heroic deed to save the U.S. from alien invasion, and the new ones will continue his job. However, there are several reports claiming that Smith could still appear in the film in a cameo role. 

"Independence Day 2" is expected to be released in theaters on June 24, 2016. 

News
Fewer than half of Americans believe in virgin birth, study finds
Fewer than half of Americans believe in virgin birth, study finds

This is the first time a major national survey has recorded belief in the virgin birth dropping below 50%.

West Bengal Christians face wave of violence and intimidation, report warns
West Bengal Christians face wave of violence and intimidation, report warns

A new report documents 60 incidents targeting Christians in West Bengal over a four-month period.

Nigeria moves to reform police amid concerns over proposed restrictions on foreign-funded organisations
Nigeria moves to reform police amid concerns over proposed restrictions on foreign-funded organisations

Nigeria has taken a significant step towards reforming its policing system, raising hopes of improved security for communities affected by years of violence, terrorism and kidnappings.

Mission Aviation Fellowship makes Sudan a fresh ministry priority amid humanitarian crisis
Mission Aviation Fellowship makes Sudan a fresh ministry priority amid humanitarian crisis

The Christian aviation charity is ending its ministry in Tanzania after more than six “decades of transformation” as its humanitarian focus shifts to the Sudan crisis.