Full Breakdown
Brendan Fraser Prepares for Return in “The Mummy 4”
5/10/2026, 9:01:00 PM
The Upcoming Fourth Installment
Brendan Fraser confirmed on *The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon* that he will reprise his role as Rick O’Connell in a new *The Mummy* film. He described the project as a reunion of the team and noted that filming is slated to begin in 2026. The movie will also feature Rachel Weisz returning as Evelyn Carnahan-O’Connell and John Hannah as Jonathan Carnahan. Co-directors Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett are attached, with a screenplay by Dave Coggeshall. Release dates reported include 15 October 2027 and 19 May 2028.
Franchise History and Revival
The original *The Mummy* series launched in 1990s, delivering three theatrical entries, the last of which arrived in 2008. Fan demand for a continuation persisted for nearly two decades, prompting Universal Pictures to green-light a fourth installment that disregards the third film’s storyline.
Key Cast and Crew
The film reunites Brendan Fraser (Rick O’Connell), Rachel Weisz (Evelyn Carnahan-O’Connell), and John Hannah (Jonathan Carnahan). It is directed by Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, written by Dave Coggeshall (credited as David Coggeshall), and produced by Sean Daniel, William Sherak, James Vanderbilt and Paul Neinstein of Project X Entertainment.
Production Schedule
Filming is reported to start in August 2026, with locations in Morocco and London. Theatrical release is listed as 15 October 2027 by one source and 19 May 2028 by another.
Why It Matters
The sequel aims to restore the action-humor-horror blend of earlier entries, satisfying long-time fans and reaffirming franchise’s identity.
Official Statements & Responses
Fraser emphasized his physical preparation, noting the challenge of returning to an action role at age 57. The directors praised the script’s emotional core and expressed enthusiasm for working with the stars. Producer Sean Daniel confirmed the project proceeds under Universal’s banner and aims to honor the series’ legacy.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources disagree on the release date (October 2027 vs. May 2028) and the start of principal photography (August 2026 vs. unspecified fall 2026). John Hannah’s involvement is listed as confirmed in some reports and uncertain in others. Plot details, including the “rising ancient evil,” remain undisclosed.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We’re gonna get the band back together. The only way to do it. So, we're going to give the audience what they have been bothering all of us for, for the last 20-whatever years.” — Brendan Fraser, actor
- “doing my best to get this 57-year-old gear in shape.” — Brendan Fraser, actor
- “I don’t think Brendan and Rachel are getting involved unless they love that script, and what they read, I think they really liked. And it’s a good script. It’s gonna be fun to make.” — Tyler Gillett, co-director
- “all of the heart and the character that you could hope for” — Matt Bettinelli-Olpin, co-director
What’s Next
Filming is slated for late 2026, with post-production leading to a theatrical debut in late 2027 or mid-2028, depending on the final schedule.
