It’s officially begun! The big screen adaptation of the popular TV showCHiPsis underway in and around the Los Angeles area. And director/starDax Shepardhas shared some exciting first look photos from the set. We also get our first look at co-starMichael Peñasuited up and on his motorcycle. After watching his performance inAnt-Man, should we worry that the California highways aren’t exactly in safe hands?
In the original series,California Highway Patrolmotorcycle officers Jon Baker and Frank “Ponch” Poncherello cruised the freeways of Los Angeles, solving crimes and helping people in trouble. The stakes usually weren’t very high, the better to highlight the personal lives of its two main characters. The show debuted on NBC on July 14, 2025 and ran for 6 seasons. While the season finale aired in May 1983, it wouldn’t be the last we’d see of Ponch and Jon. Stars Erik Estrada and Larry Wilcox would reprise their roles a decade later forCHiPs ‘99, a made-for-TV movie that aired on TNT. It is rumored that both Erik Estrada and Larry Wilcox will have cameos in this new version.
Dax Shepardis taking on the role of Officer Jonathan “Jon” Baker, whileMichael Peñais assuming the much more popular character of Officer Francis (“Frank”) Llewellyn “Ponch” Poncherello. The film has been described as a buddy copaction comedy. And there will be a heavy emphasis on the wordaction. Not only isDax Sheparddirecting and starring in the movie, he also wrote the script.
It will also be afamily affairfor the formerParenthoodstar. His wife,Kristen Bell, perhaps best known for her starring role in the TV and movie seriesVeronica Mars, is taking on a supporting role. She’ll be joined by an ensemble cast that includesVincent D’Onofrioas thevillain,Rosa Salazar,Adam Brody,Jessica McNamee, Vida Guerra, Rene Moran and Kelly Richardson. No further casting has been announced at this time. Expect to hear some additions as shooting continues throughout November and December.
CHiPs will still continue to follow the adventures of two police officers who patrol the California highways. Though, Ponch and Jon will be piloting a number of different air, land and sea crafts and are not just committed to the motorcycle this time around. The action comedy is described as a cross betweenBad BoysandLethal Weapon. It is no longer a spoof, as first imagined when the movie almost went into production a decade ago, whenThat ’70s ShowstarWilmer Valderramawas attached to play Ponch. OnceDax Shepardcame aboard, he decided to play things straight. And if you want a taste of what you can expect, check out the actor’s 2012 directorial effortHit and Run, which he also starred in with his wife. In the meantime, check out these first photos from the man himself.
