Brendan Fraser has finally addressed why The Mummy 4 has taken two decades to enter active development. The update came in a newly published Associated Press interview on Thursday, providing the clearest insight yet into what shaped the long delay. The 56-year-old actor explained why earlier installments diverted from the story he always envisioned and why the upcoming sequel is the one he spent 20 years waiting for. The Mummy 4, now in early pre-production, marks a major revival for one of Universal’s most iconic adventure franchises.
Fraser, who first played Rick O’Connell in 1999, confirmed that early creative plans shifted after The Mummy Returns, leaving his preferred story untold—until now. The upcoming film will return the character to the direction he originally hoped to explore. With production targeting a future release window, The Mummy 4 is on track to become a defining return for the franchise.
What Fraser Revealed About The Mummy 4
Fraser explained that Tomb of the Dragon Emperor changed direction due to network broadcasting requirements linked to NBC’s Olympic coverage at the time. “The one I wanted to make was never made,” Fraser said, noting that the China-set third film was a corporate-driven detour rather than part of his intended narrative arc.
He emphasized admiration for the cast and crew, but clarified it wasn’t the thematic or world-building direction he envisioned for the franchise. Now, he says the story he originally wanted is finally ready to be told in The Mummy 4.
According to industry insiders, the new installment will return to desert exploration, ancient mythology, and the pulpy tone that made the franchise a global hit.
Quotes and Reactions
Speaking to the AP, Fraser stated:
“But the one I wanted to make is forthcoming. And I’ve been waiting 20 years for this call.”
He described that the possibility of a real sequel was always present—sometimes loudly, sometimes as a “faint telegraph”—but never fully aligned until now.
Film analysts have responded positively. According to early commentary from On3 Entertainment, Fraser’s renewed involvement signals a likely return to the franchise’s original tone, which fans have long requested.
ESPN-style industry analysts note Fraser’s “Brenaissance” momentum as a driving factor, pointing out his Oscar-winning comeback has reshaped audience demand for legacy roles.
What This Means for the Franchise
The confirmation of The Mummy 4 positions Universal for a major franchise revival. A new installment following Fraser’s original vision could carry both nostalgic and commercial momentum.
Industry expectations project:
A return to classic swashbuckling adventure.
A narrative connected more deeply to the first two films.
Renewed global interest driven by Fraser’s career resurgence.
The long development period means modern VFX, expanded world-building, and potential new cast additions could reshape the franchise for a new generation.
Analysts suggest the film could achieve significant worldwide box office numbers if aligned with the tone of the 1999 original.
Timeline for The Mummy 4
Though fans may hope for a 2026 release, Fraser clarified production remains in early stages. Casting is underway, with script refinement ongoing.
Expected timeline:
2026: Full production start
2027: Most likely release window
Announcement updates: Expected early next year
In the meantime, Fraser will appear next in Rental Family, releasing Nov. 21, 2025.
With Fraser now fully committed to the story he has waited 20 years to make, The Mummy 4 represents one of Hollywood’s most anticipated franchise revivals.
Sources
Associated Press
ESPN industry desk
On3 Entertainment
247Sports Entertainment Insights
