Fans of the iconic action-comedy franchise can rejoice: Rush Hour 4 is reportedly in development, and Brett Ratner, director of the original 1998 hit, is set to return to helm the sequel. According to multiple sources, the film’s revival comes after former President Donald Trump lobbied Paramount Skydance shareholder Larry Ellison on Ratner’s behalf, reigniting hopes for the long-awaited continuation of the blockbuster franchise starring Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker.

Trump’s Influence in Hollywood: How Rush Hour 4 Came to Be

The news comes after years of speculation about a fourth installment in the Rush Hour series. Matthew Belloni of Puck reported on X that the revival is “after prodding from Trump on behalf of” Ratner. Per The Guardian, Trump, 79, personally reached out to Ellison, the billionaire father of Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison. Larry Ellison, the company’s largest shareholder, is said to have supported the project following Trump’s recommendation.

While the White House has not commented, insiders suggest that Trump’s involvement in media and film decisions is consistent with his previous engagements in Hollywood-related matters.

Returning Stars: Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker

Jackie Chan, 71, and Chris Tucker, 54, are expected to reprise their iconic roles. Chan confirmed in 2022 that discussions were underway for a fourth installment, hinting that he had been in talks with a director, though at the time, the director’s identity was not disclosed.

Both stars have remained active in film: Chan recently appeared in The Shadow’s Edge and will star in Panda Plan 2 and Guo Jia Jia, while Tucker last appeared in 2023’s Air. Their return promises to maintain the franchise’s signature mix of martial arts, comedy, and dynamic on-screen chemistry.

Brett Ratner’s Controversial Return

Brett Ratner, 56, is no stranger to controversy. In 2017, he faced multiple accusations of sexual misconduct and harassment during the #MeToo movement, including claims from actresses Olivia Munn and Natasha Henstridge. Ratner denied all allegations and filed, then later dropped, a defamation lawsuit against one accuser.

Despite his past controversies, Ratner remains closely connected in Hollywood. Beyond Rush Hour 4, he is reportedly developing a documentary on First Lady Melania Trump for Amazon MGM Studios. His return to a major studio project marks a notable reentry into Hollywood filmmaking.

Paramount’s Strategic Moves and Media Ties

Larry Ellison, 81, recently engaged in talks with White House officials regarding a potential Paramount Skydance acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery. Insider reports indicate that discussions included media restructuring plans, further demonstrating Ellison’s influence in Hollywood decision-making.

Trump’s history of media involvement is also notable. Earlier this year, Paramount Global settled a lawsuit with Trump over a CBS News interview, agreeing to a $16 million payment to Trump’s future presidential library.

What Fans Can Expect from Rush Hour 4

While casting and production details for Rush Hour 4 have not been officially announced, the film is expected to continue the franchise’s hallmark blend of comedy, high-energy action sequences, and the memorable partnership between Chan and Tucker. With Ratner’s return to directing, fans anticipate a faithful continuation that pays homage to the original trilogy while offering fresh, modern twists.

The film marks a significant moment in Hollywood, demonstrating how star power, political influence, and fan demand can intersect to revive a beloved franchise.