Hugh Jackman to reprise his role as P.T. Barnum in a follow-up to The Greatest Showman

Days after Hugh Jackman performed a barnstorming number from The Greatest Showman at the Brit Awards, a sequel to the smash hit musical has been confirmed.

It was the surprise hit of 2017, generally panned by critics but a runaway hit at the box office.

Now the director of The Greatest Showman has revealed that he and star Hugh Jackman are working on a follow-up.

The news comes just days after Jackman gave an enthusiastic performance of The Greatest Show to kick off this week’s Brit Awards.

Director Michael Gracey confirmed to The Sun that discussions around a sequel had started.

“When a movie becomes as big a success as this, it’s only natural there is demand for a sequel.

“(W)e are working on one right now,” he said.

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Show people (l-r): Keala Settle, Zendaya, Hugh Jackman, director Michael Gracey and Zac Efron at The Greatest Showman Australian premiere in Sydney. Picture: Christian Gilles

While the appearance of the film’s other stars Zac Efron and Zendaya has not been confirmed, the original film’s songwriters will return, it was reported.

Gracey also told The Sun that there were “huge doubts” about the original film when it was in production and some backers withdrew their money.

Hugh Jackman brings the showman magic during tWednesday night’s BRIT Awards ceremony in London. Picture: Daniel Leal-Olivas/AFP

The Greatest Showman went on to become a massive earner, with worldwide box office takings over $430 million.

Jackman’s most recent film was The Front Runner, which was initially touted as an awards-season contender, but it too was panned by the critics upon release.

Hugh Jackman in his natural habitat: on stage. Picture: Joel C Ryan/Invision/AP