Marvel Studios has announced that development on Thor 5 has officially begun, but Taika Waititi will not be returning to direct the next saga, confirming recent rumors and discussions surrounding the franchise. The focus keyword, Taika Waititi not returning for Thor 5 direction, is at the heart of this transition as the studio seeks a new vision for the God of Thunder’s next chapter.
Marvel’s Direction Change for the Thor Franchise
After the release of Thor: Love and Thunder, which drew heavily from Jason Aaron’s Thor comic series and introduced both The Mighty Thor and Gorr the God Butcher, Marvel Studios decided to take the franchise in a new direction. Although Waititi rejuvenated Thor with his 2017 film Thor: Ragnarok, the latest sequel received a more mixed reception, with fans and even Chris Hemsworth acknowledging its shortcomings. The shift stems from the belief that the humor-heavy tone of the last installment may not have resonated as intended.
Sam Hargrave, known for directing Extraction, has been mentioned as a possible successor to helm Thor 5. Daniel Richtman, a reliable source for Marvel news, confirmed that the film is officially in development and will be part of Marvel’s next saga after Avengers: Secret Wars. Waititi’s departure signals a fresh creative start for Thor, aiming to adapt new storylines and possibly launch a new trilogy for the character.
Chris Hemsworth Reflects on Thor’s Evolution
Chris Hemsworth has been candid about his experiences playing Thor across various films. In revisiting his work on Thor: Love and Thunder, Hemsworth commented:
“I got caught up in the improv and the wackiness, and I became a parody of myself,”
—Chris Hemsworth, Actor
He further admitted, “I didn’t stick the landing,” reflecting on the movie’s execution. Looking back at earlier Avengers movies directed by Joss Whedon, Hemsworth described his frustration with his role at the time:
“Sometimes I felt like a security guard for the team,”
—Chris Hemsworth, Actor
and
“I would read everyone else’s lines, and go, Oh, they got way cooler stuff. They’re having more fun. What’s my character doing?”
—Chris Hemsworth, Actor
The actor also discussed the broader experience of being part of a massive ensemble, stating:
“It was always about, ‘You’ve got the wig on. You’ve got the muscles. You’ve got the costume. Where’s the lighting?’ Yeah, I’m part of this big thing, but I’m probably pretty replaceable.”
—Chris Hemsworth, Actor
Box Office Performance and Future Prospects
Thor: Love and Thunder earned $760.9 million globally, just behind Thor: Ragnarok’s $865 million box office total. Considering the drop occurred during a challenging post-pandemic period, the results reinforce Marvel’s decision to move forward with another installment. Hemsworth, who will return in Avengers: Doomsday, may see his character reimagined once again, as the Russo Brothers look to guide the Multiverse Saga toward its conclusion.
Though Taika Waititi not returning for Thor 5 direction marks a major shift, Marvel Studios appears committed to renewing the franchise’s energy, exploring new narratives and creative leadership. As Thor’s journey continues, more updates are expected as the project progresses and details on direction and casting emerge.
