- Unexpected Revival: The long-stalled ‘Rush Hour 4’ is reportedly moving forward after President Donald Trump urged Paramount Skydance to resurrect the popular buddy-cop franchise.
- Director’s Return: Brett Ratner, whose career was derailed in 2017 by sexual misconduct allegations that he denies, is set to direct the new installment.
- Studio Collaboration: Paramount has struck a unique distribution and revenue-sharing deal with Warner Bros. Discovery, the original owner of the franchise.
- Stars Expected Back: Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker, the iconic duo from the first three films, are both expected to return for the sequel.
A Presidential Push Revives a Fan Favorite
After nearly two decades, the beloved action-comedy franchise ‘Rush Hour’ is reportedly making a comeback, and the revival comes with a surprising twist. According to multiple reports, President Donald Trump personally pushed for Paramount Skydance to bring ‘Rush Hour 4’ to life, paving the way for the sequel that has been in development limbo for years.
The project had previously stalled over concerns about working with director Brett Ratner. His career came to a halt in 2017 after several women accused him of sexual misconduct, allegations he has consistently denied. According to a report from Puck’s Matthew Belloni, Paramount’s decision to move forward came “after prodding from Trump on behalf of Brett Ratner.”
Paramount is releasing RUSH HOUR 4 after prodding from Trump on behalf of Brett Ratner. And the financials are fascinating: Warners, which owns the IP, is licensing it out for a percent of the gross BEFORE a cash break-even point. Plus a rental fee. Pretty sweet deal for WBD.
— Matthew Belloni (@MattBelloni) November 25, 2025
The Deal Behind the Comeback
To make the film a reality, Paramount has entered into an unusual distribution agreement with Warner Bros. Discovery, which owns the rights to the franchise through its New Line Cinema banner. Under the terms, Paramount will handle the theatrical release for a flat distribution fee, while Warner Bros. will receive a share of the box-office revenue before financiers recoup their investment. This creative deal structure allows both studios to benefit from the franchise’s potential success.
What to Expect from ‘Rush Hour 4’
The original three ‘Rush Hour’ films were a massive global success, grossing over $850 million worldwide and cementing Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker as international superstars. Both actors are expected to reprise their iconic roles as Inspector Lee and Detective Carter.
However, the sequel faces a different cinematic landscape. Comedies have struggled to find footing at the modern box office, and it has been a significant time since either star has headlined a major studio film. At 71, Chan has taken on fewer U.S. projects, while Tucker’s last major leading role was in 2007’s ‘Rush Hour 3’.
A Move Amidst Industry Shake-Ups
This development comes as Paramount Skydance is actively involved in a bid to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery. The revival of a valuable Warner Bros. property like ‘Rush Hour’ highlights the complex and high-stakes negotiations happening behind the scenes as major media companies vie for control of valuable entertainment assets.