Full Breakdown
National Treasure 3 Confirmed: Director Jon Turteltaub Announces Disney-Backed Sequel
8/22/2026, 11:54:57 PM
Core Announcement
On August 21, 2026, franchise director Jon Turteltaub addressed a live audience at the National Treasure Hunt podcast recording in Philadelphia and confirmed that a third film in the *National Treasure* series is officially moving forward. He stated that Disney has approved the screenplay and that the original cast, including Nicolas Cage as Benjamin Franklin Gates, is expected to return. The announcement marks the first public confirmation of the project after more than two decades of speculation.
Background & Context
The *National Treasure* franchise began with the 2004 adventure-thriller starring Cage, which grossed $347 million worldwide. Its 2007 sequel, *National Treasure: Book of Secrets*, added $459 million to the global total, bringing the two-film series to roughly $806 million in box-office revenue. Disney later expanded the IP with the Disney+ series *National Treasure: Edge of History* in 2022; the series ran for one season before cancellation. Development of a third film stalled for years due to shifting studio priorities and multiple script revisions, but recent involvement from screenwriters Ted Elliott and Chris Bremner has produced a version that satisfies both the director and Disney executives.
Data & Statistics
- First film (2004): $347 million worldwide gross on a $100 million budget.
- Second film (2007): $459 million worldwide gross on a $130 million budget.
- Combined theatrical earnings: Over $800 million globally.
- Streaming availability: Both films are currently streaming exclusively on Disney+.
Official Statements & Responses
He added that the studio’s endorsement means the sequel is now “Hollywood real,” indicating that production can realistically proceed. Representatives for both Cage and Disney have not provided additional comment beyond confirming the script’s approval.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I have not said anything before this, but you deserve to have the scoop,” — Jon Turteltaub, director
- “It’s happening. You’re the first people I have said this out loud to.” — Jon Turteltaub, director
- “We finally have a script that I like,” — Jon Turteltaub, director
What’s Next
No official release date has been announced. The confirmed script will now move into the pre-production phase, which includes finalizing casting, securing a filming schedule, and budgeting. As the project advances, further updates are expected from Disney and the creative team.
