Full Breakdown
Tom Cruise Pursues Chloé Zhao for Mission: Impossible 9
2/19/2026, 12:13:28 PM
Rumored Collaboration with Chloé Zhao
Recent rumors suggest that Tom Cruise is seeking to collaborate with Oscar-winning director Chloé Zhao for the ninth installment of the *Mission: Impossible* franchise. The speculation originated from DeuxMoi, a celebrity gossip account, which reported that Cruise has personally approached Zhao to write and direct the film. According to the unverified claim, the two have already begun workshopping a treatment and a script is reportedly underway. If true, this would mark a significant shift in the franchise's direction, as Zhao would be the first new director to helm an entry since Christopher McQuarrie took over in 2015.
Background on the Franchise
The *Mission: Impossible* series has been known for its rotating directors, with notable filmmakers like Brian De Palma, John Woo, J.J. Abrams, and Brad Bird contributing their unique styles to the franchise. McQuarrie directed the last four films, including *Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning* (2023) and *The Final Reckoning* (2025), which was positioned as the franchise's finale. However, the financial performance of *The Final Reckoning*, which grossed approximately $600 million against a reported budget of over $400 million, has led to discussions about the future of the series.
Potential Impact of Zhao's Direction
Chloé Zhao is best known for her intimate storytelling in films like *Nomadland* and her work on the Marvel blockbuster *Eternals*. Her involvement could introduce a new tone to the *Mission: Impossible* series, blending her grounded narrative style with the franchise's trademark high-octane action. This potential collaboration has sparked interest in the film industry, as it could signal a desire for a fresh creative direction amidst concerns regarding the franchise's sustainability.
Criticism and Skepticism
Despite the excitement surrounding the rumor, some industry observers express skepticism. Critics argue that the idea of Zhao directing an action franchise like *Mission: Impossible* seems unlikely, especially given her current commitments, including campaigning for her film *Hamnet*. Additionally, there are no confirmed reports linking her to the franchise, leading some to view the speculation as mere internet chatter.
Conflicting Reports and Gaps
While the rumor has generated buzz, it remains unverified and should be approached with caution. The DeuxMoi account has a history of publishing unconfirmed information, and the lack of concrete evidence raises questions about the authenticity of the claims. As of now, there are no official statements from either Cruise or Zhao regarding this potential collaboration.
What's Next for the Franchise?
As discussions about the future of the *Mission: Impossible* series continue, the possibility of a ninth film directed by Chloé Zhao remains speculative. Tom Cruise is currently engaged in other projects, including a role in Alejandro G. Iñárritu's *Digger*. The outcome of these rumors will likely influence the direction of the franchise moving forward.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Chloe Zhao is in talks to write/direct [Mission: Impossible 9]. Tom sought her out, they’ve workshopped a treatment, script is underway.” — DeuxMoi
- “This is all just internet fodder for now.” — Industry Observer
- “It would feel weird if Cruise were to switch from McQuarrie to a more awards-oriented director without an action background, but the franchise seems to be turning over a new leaf and changing teams could make that possible.” — Film Analyst
