It was announced several years ago that Richard Donner was actively developing Lethal Weapon 5, a film which he hoped to direct himself. Unfortunately, the director recently passed away, which made the status of the project unclear. As it turns out, however, it’s beginning to look like actor Mel Gibson will take the reigns and direct the sequel. Furthermore, it looks like Lethal Weapon 5 could see a release on HBO Max instead of a theatrical release like its predecessors.
This news was revealed via Deadline, where they explained that Mel Gibson has been in talks to direct the project. However, with Mel Gibson only in the negotiation stage, it isn’t confirmed that he’ll be directing the sequel.
Here’s what was stated:
“Over the weekend during an interview in London, Gibson let it slip that he was looking at direct Lethal Weapon 5, and sources close to him have now said he is in talks to direct and star, though no deal has closed.”
As for the project being produced for the HBO Max streaming platform, here’s what they said on that front:
“The film would be developed for HBO Max as the service continues to build up its slate of feature films that would premiere on the streamer. Not much else is known about the film at this time.”
They were also quick to mention that it’s unclear when the project could begin production, given that Mel Gibson’s schedule is currently quite full. Nevertheless, with the possibility of Mel Gibson taking over the reigns as director, it gives hope for this project that some feared would have disappeared following the death of Richard Donner. In fact, it’d be bittersweet if Mel Gibson had the opportunity to direct Lethal Weapon 5 for HBO Max. After all, he was close friends with Donner – and it would be quite the tribute if Mel Gibson directed the final entry.