The long-awaited Lethal Weapon 5 is officially in development, with Mel Gibson stepping in as director following the passing of Richard Donner in 2021. Donner, who directed all four previous installments, had been working on the sequel before his death and had personally asked Gibson to take over.
As one of the leading figures in the franchise, Gibson’s involvement as director adds a unique perspective, as he has lived with the characters and story for decades.
What We Know So Far
Gibson has confirmed that the film is moving forward, with a script penned by Richard Wenk (The Equalizer). The screenplay is expected to blend intense action with the series’ signature comedic banter, a hallmark that made the franchise so beloved. The new installment is expected to continue the action-packed and comedic dynamic between Martin Riggs (Gibson) and Roger Murtaugh (Danny Glover) while introducing new story elements fitting for their current stage in life.
Given their ages and decades of partnership, the film will likely explore how their characters deal with the changing world around them, possibly leading to a final mission that will put their legendary status to the test.
Fun Facts from the Previous Movies
- Danny Glover thought he was too old for the role—over 35 years ago! His famous line, “I’m too old for this s**,”* was already a joke in the original 1987 film when Glover was only 40 years old. Now, in his late 70s, fans are wondering how his character will handle another adventure.
- Mel Gibson almost didn’t play Riggs. The role of Martin Riggs was originally offered to Bruce Willis, who turned it down—only to later star in Die Hard, another iconic action franchise.
- Joe Pesci’s Leo Getz was never meant to be a big part of the series. Originally written as a minor character in Lethal Weapon 2, Pesci’s comedic performance was such a hit that he returned for Lethal Weapon 3 and 4, becoming a fan favorite.
- Jet Li was almost too fast for the camera. While filming Lethal Weapon 4, Jet Li’s martial arts moves were so quick that the production team had to ask him to slow down so the cameras could properly capture the action.
Returning Cast & Characters
Although no official cast list has been released, both Mel Gibson and Danny Glover are expected to reprise their iconic roles. The chemistry between Riggs and Murtaugh is the heart of the franchise, and fans are eager to see how their relationship has evolved.
Other recurring characters, such as Joe Pesci’s Leo Getz and Rene Russo’s Lorna Cole, may also return, though their involvement has not been confirmed. If they do appear, their presence could provide continuity and further explore past character arcs. Additionally, it remains to be seen whether any fresh faces will be added to the cast to introduce a new generation of action heroes.
What Can Fans Expect?
- A nostalgic yet fresh approach – The film will honor Richard Donner’s legacy while delivering the same action-comedy chemistry that fans love. Donner’s influence on the project remains a key driving force, and Gibson has expressed his dedication to preserving the late director’s vision.
- More grounded storytelling – Given the characters’ ages, the story may take a more reflective approach, exploring themes of legacy, family, and closing chapters. Will Riggs and Murtaugh finally retire, or will duty call for one last explosive mission? This dynamic could create an emotional and action-packed storyline.
- Classic Lethal Weapon action – While embracing a more mature tone, expect explosive action sequences and the witty banter that has defined the franchise. The mix of intense gunfights, high-speed chases, and unexpected humor will remain intact, ensuring the film stays true to its roots while offering fresh twists.
When Will Lethal Weapon 5 Be Released?
There is no confirmed release date yet, but industry insiders suggest production could begin in late 2024 or early 2025, putting a possible release window between 2025-2026. Since the franchise has a dedicated fan base, Warner Bros. and the creative team are likely to ensure the film meets high expectations before officially announcing a premiere date.
Watch the Lethal Weapon Movie CLIP – Have a Nice Day (1987)
With Mel Gibson at the helm, Lethal Weapon 5 promises to be both a tribute to Richard Donner and an exciting continuation of the beloved action franchise. Whether it serves as the grand finale for Riggs and Murtaugh or sets the stage for a potential spin-off, one thing is certain: fans can expect a thrilling, high-energy return to the world of Lethal Weapon.
