Sigourney Weaver negotiates return as the iconic Ripley for new project in the Alien franchise with Disney

Actress Sigourney Weaver, acclaimed for playing Ellen Ripley in the Alien franchise, has expressed interest in reprising her iconic role. In an interview with Variety, during the promotion of “Avatar: Fire and Ash”, she confirmed advanced discussions with Disney, owner of 20th Century Studios. Weaver revealed that he had read a 50-page treatment, written by Walter Hill, a veteran producer of the series since 1979, which rekindles fans’ hopes.

This project comes in an active period for the franchise, with releases such as “Alien: Romulus” in 2024, which grossed more than US$350 million globally. The actress expressed cautious optimism, classifying the material as “very interesting” and hoping for it to come to fruition, although the process is in the early stages of development. Esta update, released in December 2025, reignites speculation about the future of the saga.

Main points of Weaver’s statement:

The treatment focuses on Ripley being silenced for warning about xenomorphs.

There is potential collaboration with Hill to expand the roadmap.

Emphasis on gradual steps to make the film viable.

The Alien franchise, started by Ridley Scott, has eight main films and expansions. With the return of Weaver, absent since “Alien: Resurrection” (1997), the studio seeks to balance legacy and recent innovations.

The proposed plot for Ripley’s return

Walter Hill, producer of “Alien”, “Aliens” and “Alien 3”, created the treatment that positions Ripley in institutional persecution. The character would be silenced by corporate authorities, echoing themes from the original series. Weaver highlighted that the document captures the essence of Ripley, a resilient survivor in a dystopian future.

This approach suggests a narrative closer to “Aliens” (1986), potentially ignoring “Alien 3” and “Resurrection.” The actress praised the fidelity to the heroine’s arc. Initial Discussões with Disney took place in October 2025, with the plot exploring ethical dilemmas in Weyland-Yutani. Hill aims to maintain the characteristic sci-fi suspense and horror tone.

History of sequence attempts with Weaver

In 2015, director

The project was shelved after the acquisition of Fox by Disney in 2019. Blomkamp prioritized other work, and the studio continued with “Prometheus” and “Alien:

Weaver supported the concept of Blomkamp, calling it a “brilliant idea”. Frustration with “Covenant” ($240 million) influenced the change of direction. The success of “Romulus” favors quick approvals for legacy sequels.

Recent updates on the Alien franchise

“Alien: Romulus” exceeded expectations by combining classic and modern elements, reaching 80% approval on Rotten Tomatoes. A sequel is already in development, with Fede Álvarez returning to direct.

The series “Alien: Earth” concluded its first season in November 2025, exploring corporate origins. The 2026 renewal reflects over 10 million streaming views of Disney.

Rumors point to a new “Alien vs. Predator”, inspired by “Predator: Badlands” (2025), incorporating Weyland-Yutani. Este crossover could expand the universe, scheduled for release in 2027.

The franchise’s catalog includes spin-offs such as “Prometheus” (2012), which introduced the Engenheiros. Esses projects maintain engagement, with more than 1 billion in accumulated box office.

The influence of Walter Hill on the saga

Walter Hill has served as a producer since the original “Alien,” contributing stories to “Aliens” and writing “Alien 3.” Sua vision emphasizes psychological tension and social criticism, central elements of the series. Hill advocated autonomous approaches to each film, allowing directors like James Cameron and David Fincher to innovate while prioritizing character.

Weaver and Hill have maintained a decades-long friendship, facilitating collaborations. The actress mentioned plans to work together to finalize the script, potentially in 2026. Hill also produced “Alien: Isolation” (2014), a game that sold 7 million copies, reinforcing its multiplatform influence.

Production prospects under management Disney

The acquisition of 20th Century Fox by Disney in 2019 restructured the franchise. Projetos like “Romulus” demonstrate a focus on accessible narratives, with budgets in the range of US$80 million, seeking quick returns. Executivos from Disney prioritize hits like “Predator: Badlands”. The Ripley project could be considered a prestige film, aiming for awards. Desafios include the aging of Weaver (76 years old in 2025) and integration with the existing canon. Estúdios plans filming for 2027, with a premiere in 2028, balancing nostalgia and freshness, expanding to TV with “Alien: Earth” and games like “Alien: Rogue Incursion” in VR.

Reactions and expectations from fans and critics

Fans expressed excitement on social media following the October announcement, with hashtags like #RipleyReturns generating millions of interactions. Críticos praise the potential of Hill to rescue the original tone of Scott. Analistas predict box office sales above US$400 million, comparable to “Aliens”. The announcement coincides with “Alien’s” 46th anniversary in 2025, amplifying cultural buzz.