Story perspectives

Danny McBride to Direct New G.I. Joe; Bradley Cooper Courted

7/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Danny McBride will direct and write the screenplay for Paramount’s new G.I. Joe film, marking his feature-film debut.
Paramount has classified the project as a high-priority franchise film.
Bradley Cooper may replace Chris Hemsworth, who left the role for undisclosed reasons.
The earlier G.I. Joe movies each earned over $300 million worldwide, while the 2021 Snake Eyes reboot made about $40 million.

History

Historical Context

When Paramount released *G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra* in 2009, the live-action reboot revived the 1980s toy line and earned $302 million worldwide. The film’s success prompted Hasbro to greenlight sequels, while director Stephen Davis oversaw a $150 million production budget and a global marketing push. Today Paramount’s new G.I. Joe project, helmed by Danny McBride and potentially starring Bradley Cooper after Chris Hemsworth’s exit, mirrors that 2009 revival strategy. If the franchise repeats its past box-office momentum, the studio may secure another $300 million-plus run, reinforcing franchise-driven financing models.

1 of 2

Story summary

Danny McBride will direct and write the screenplay for Paramount’s new G.I. Joe film, marking his feature-film debut.
Paramount has classified the project as a high-priority franchise film.
Bradley Cooper may replace Chris Hemsworth, who left the role for undisclosed reasons.
The earlier G.I. Joe movies each earned over $300 million worldwide, while the 2021 Snake Eyes reboot made about $40 million.

1 / 2