Vin Diesel recently posted some updates on his Facebook page that suggest we might be seeing Riddick as early as January of next year.  Principal photography wrapped recently on Riddick, the third film in a franchise that started with Pitch Black. While Diesel was hoping to see a release in 2012, this comes as a good sign that the studio is happy with what they’re seeing.  That bodes well, not only for Riddick, but for the potential sequels if Riddick proves commercially successful.  Be sure to check out some images from set here. The extensive cast includes Karl Urban, Katee Sackhoff, Jordi Molla, Bokeem Woodbine, David Bautista, Matt Nable, Conrad Pla, Raoul Trujillo, Nolan Funk, and Keri Hilson. Hit the jump to see what Diesel had to say.

In case you were somehow confused by the recent set photos Vin Diesel has been sending out, Universal Pictures has announced that principal photography has officially begun on Riddick.  The press release provides an updated synopsis and casting info.  We knew that Diesel would be joined by Karl Urban, Katee Sackhoff, and Jordi Molla, but now Bokeem Woodbine and David Bautista have been confirmed as cast members.  The film also stars Matt Nable, Conrad Pla, Raoul Trujillo, Nolan Funk, and Keri Hilson.

Hit the jump for the press release.