Brendan Fraser Shocks Hollywood: The Mummy 4 Is Finally Happening

Brendan Fraser has confirmed that The Mummy franchise is officially returning with a fourth installment, marking the actor’s first time reprising the role of Rick O’Connell since 2008. The update was revealed during a new Associated Press interview, where Fraser said the long-rumored project is finally happening. The announcement ends years of speculation and delivers the clearest confirmation yet of the franchise’s revival. Fraser acknowledged he has waited two decades for this moment, calling it “time to give the fans what they want.” The new film will reunite Fraser with original co-star Rachel Weisz and introduce fresh creative leadership behind the camera.

Fraser, 56, will return as Rick O’Connell in The Mummy 4, the first mainline sequel since Tomb of the Dragon Emperor in 2008. The project is being co-directed by the Radio Silence filmmaking team of Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett. Production details, including filming schedule and release date, are expected to be revealed in 2026.

Fraser emphasized that the new film will align more closely with the tone of the original 1999 and 2001 entries, which blended action, humor, and supernatural adventure. He reflected on the franchise’s past evolution and expressed pride in the earlier movies, while noting that the version he always wanted to make “was never made — until now.”

Quotes & Reaction

Fraser spoke candidly about the long wait, telling AP:
“The one I wanted to make is forthcoming… I’ve been waiting 20 years for this call. Now? It’s time to give the fans what they want.”

He also commented on the franchise’s tonal identity, referencing Universal’s 2017 reboot starring Tom Cruise:
“The ingredient we had was fun… the Mummy should be a thrill ride, not straight horror.”

Industry analysts say Fraser’s resurgence following his 2023 Oscar win for The Whale likely accelerated momentum for the sequel. Fans have reacted enthusiastically online, celebrating the return of both Fraser and Rachel Weisz.

What This Means for the Franchise

Fraser’s comeback and The Mummy 4 signal the strongest revival attempt for Universal’s classic monster brand in nearly a decade. If successful, the film could re-establish the franchise as a modern tentpole, similar to its box-office dominance in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

The original trilogy grossed more than $1.2 billion globally and helped redefine popcorn adventure cinema. Analysts believe the return of Fraser and Weisz — combined with modern filmmaking advances — could deliver a significant resurgence and potentially launch a new multi-film run.

What’s Next

Universal is expected to finalize its production timeline early next year. The Radio Silence team is currently developing script revisions that bring back the franchise’s signature mix of humor, mythology, and high-stakes adventure.

A formal casting announcement confirming returning characters and new additions is expected in early 2026. For now, Fraser’s statement stands as the clearest sign yet: The Mummy is officially returning.

Sources

• Associated Press

• Variety

• TheWrap

• Deadline

• Universal Pictures press archives