Donald Glover is set to retire his Childish Gambino persona this month after six albums under the name. In an interview with the New York Times ahead of his upcoming album, Bando Stone & the New World, Glover explained his decision: “It really was just like, ‘Oh, it’s done.’ It’s not fulfilling. And I just felt like I didn’t need to build in this way anymore.”
Bando Stone & The New World, Glover’s second album of 2024 following the release of Atavista in May, marks his return to music. Alongside the album, he is gearing up for a world tour from August 2024 to February 2025, featuring Willow Smith and Amaarae.
The album release will be accompanied by a film of the same name, exclusively premiering in IMAX theaters. Produced by RCA and Gilga, the movie stars Glover as Bando Stone, a fictional musician navigating a post-apocalyptic world. The trailer blends eerie and comedic elements, showcasing Glover’s character banding together with survivors against surreal, otherworldly threats.
“What are you when the world ends?” the trailer asks viewers, setting a thought-provoking tone amidst the chaos.
Jessica Allain, known for her roles in horror thrillers like Texas Chainsaw Massacre and Fear, joins Glover in the film’s cast.
Regarding his acting career, Glover confirmed he won’t reprise his role in Amazon Prime’s Mr. & Mrs. Smith for its second season, despite the show’s renewal. While maintaining his role as co-creator and executive producer, Glover’s absence from the cast alongside Maya Erskine raises questions, with sources suggesting his musical commitments played a role in the decision.
Variety reports reflect uncertainty about Glover’s return, with Amazon declining to confirm details surrounding his involvement in the series moving forward.