Arnold Schwarzenegger may make a comeback in the Predator series, director Dan Trachtenberg hinted recently. The original star, known for his role as Major Alan ‘Dutch’ Schaefer in the 1987 film, could appear again following Trachtenberg’s discussions with him.
Schwarzenegger’s character, Dutch, famously faced the alien Predator alongside his paramilitary team during a mission in the Central American jungle. While the franchise has grown to include nine films, with crossovers from the Alien series and the forthcoming Predator: Badlands, Schwarzenegger has not returned since the original movie.
Director’s Plans and Approval for Schwarzenegger’s Likeness
Trachtenberg shared details at the Badlands panel during Comic-Con on July 25, mentioning he aimed to
cook up stuff for that guy
after having breakfast with Schwarzenegger. Furthermore, the actor authorized the use of his image for an epilogue scene in Predator: Killer of Killers, which shows Predator warriors carrying coffins of notable humans such as Dutch, Lt Mike Harrigan from Predator 2, and Naru from Prey.
Overview of Predator: Badlands and Its Unique Approach
Scheduled for release on November 7, Predator: Badlands flips the usual formula by focusing on the Predator as the lead character rather than humans. The film is set on a distant planet in the future, following a young Predator who has been cast out from his clan and forms an alliance with Thia, portrayed by Elle Fanning, an android figure.
The official synopsis describes the story as a dangerous quest where the outcast Predator and Thia seek the
ultimate adversary
, a massive creature glimpsed in the trailer navigating through a jungle environment. Thia’s line,
You’re hunting something that can’t be killed
, suggests a fresh take on the conventional Predator-human conflict.
Recent Public Attention on Schwarzenegger’s Family
Aside from franchise news, Schwarzenegger has appeared in headlines due to his son Patrick’s role in the latest White Lotus season. Patrick faced accusations of being a ‘nepo baby,’ which Arnold firmly denied, emphasizing that his son has never requested assistance with his acting career.
During a Variety conversation, Patrick explained,
We talked about this idea of nepotism, but when you grow up and your parents do a specific job, it makes sense that you go and work in that world
. Arnold responded,
You have never asked me to call a studio or to call an agent. You never asked me for advice when it comes to acting itself. You’re a rare breed, and I’m very, very proud of you
.
What Schwarzenegger’s Return Could Mean for the Franchise
The possibility of Arnold Schwarzenegger returning could reignite interest in the Predator franchise across generations. His involvement, whether through a cameo or a more substantial role, would connect the new installments to the original film’s legacy, while upcoming projects like Predator: Badlands continue to explore innovative storylines and perspectives within the universe. Fans eager to see Dutch once more may find cause for excitement as the series moves forward.
