Paramount Pictures confirmed this Tuesday, December 2, 2025, the development of Rush Hour 4, the fourth sequel to the action and comedy franchise that began in 1998. The decision came after direct pressure from the president of Estados Unidos, Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker are expected to return to lead roles.
The project had been shelved for years, but gained momentum when Trump publicly expressed his desire to see a new sequel. Segundo sources from the Hollywood film market, the president spoke personally with Ellison about the possibility of resurrecting the series.
Connection between Trump and the franchise
Donald Trump has shown a special interest in the Rush Hour trilogy over the years. The films, directed by Brett Ratner between 1998 and 2007, combine action, physical humor and the partnership between Chinese police officer Lee (Jackie Chan) and American detective Carter (Chris Tucker).
The commercial relationship also weighs in the decision. The Ellison family, controlling Skydance, recently completed the purchase of Paramount and is seeking regulatory approval for future acquisitions, including possible moves involving Warner Bros. Discovery.
Brett Ratner’s return to the spotlight
Brett Ratner, director of the three previous films, removed from major productions after allegations of sexual harassment in 2017, may return to direct the fourth feature. The filmmaker recently directed a documentary about Melania Trump, acquired by Amazon for an estimated value of 40 million dollars.
Ratner’s proximity to the president’s circle facilitates his possible return. Trump has previously expressed public support for Hollywood figures who faced cancellation during the #MeToo movement.
Details of the new film still being defined
- Paramount did not provide a release date or start of filming
- Jackie Chan confirmed interest in reprising the role in recent interviews
- Chris Tucker participated in early negotiations, according to studio sources
- The script is in the early stages of development
Expected commercial impact
Rush Hour 3, released in 2007, grossed more than $258 million worldwide. The franchise maintains a loyal audience in Ásia and Estados Unidos, especially among viewers who grew up with the original films.
The announcement generated immediate repercussions on social media. Fãs celebrated the duo’s return, while part of the public questioned the choice of Ratner as director given the accusations he faces.
History of the partnership Chan and Tucker
The chemistry between the protagonists sustained the success of the series. The first film, released in 1998, grossed 244 million dollars globally and consolidated Jackie Chan in the North American market.
Rush Hour 2 (2001) raised the bar with 347 million dollars at the worldwide box office. The sequel moved some of the action to Hong Kong and expanded the franchise’s international reach.
The third chapter, set in Paris, maintained the police comedy formula with chases and fights choreographed by Chan. Apesar from mixed reviews, the film made enough profit to keep the possibility of new sequels alive.
The confirmation of Rush Hour 4 marks the return of one of the most profitable partnerships in action cinema of the 2000s. The project moves forward amid direct relations between the government