Josh Duhamel, who played a major role in the original Transformers film franchise, has expressed openness to returning amid news of Michael Bay‘s involvement in a new Transformers project. The franchise, which launched in 2007 under Bay’s direction, featured a cast including Shia LaBeouf, Tyrese Gibson, Megan Fox, and many others. Bay, known for directing the first five films before stepping away in 2017, is now reported to be coming back as a producer and potentially as a director for the anticipated new installment slated for 2025 or beyond.
In an interview with The Direct, Duhamel said he hasn’t received any direct communication about the new movie but remains enthusiastic about the possibility of rejoining the franchise.
“I have not heard that. But yeah, why not? Michael Bay is such a talented dude. I just really, I really, really loved working with him. We did four of those movies. One, I did 1, 2, 3, and 5. I shot up that, you know, I started as like a cadet and ended up like a lieutenant colonel or something. So who knows. Would I be a general at this point? I’ve definitely grayed into the spot. Yeah, I’d love to do it.”
—Josh Duhamel, Actor
The Evolution of Josh Duhamel’s Role and What to Expect from Bay’s New Film
Josh Duhamel originated the role of Captain William Lennox in the 2007 Transformers film and continued reprising his character through several sequels. His rank advanced from Captain to Major in Revenge of the Fallen (2009), then Colonel in Dark of the Moon (2011), and again maintained Colonel status in The Last Knight (2017). He did not appear in Age of Extinction (2014), but returned for the latter film in 2017.
Despite his long association with the franchise and close connection to Bay’s vision, there is no confirmation yet regarding Duhamel’s return in Bay’s upcoming project. The specifics of the new movie remain largely undisclosed, including whether it will follow the previous narrative established in the original five films or start anew as a reboot. This uncertainty extends to the returning cast, with Duhamel’s Colonel Lennox among the few known characters potentially reprising their roles.
With Shia LaBeouf’s character, Sam Witwicky, confirmed as deceased within the storyline, Duhamel may represent the most recognizable and returning human lead, but final casting decisions have yet to be made. Since Bay’s new involvement is still in early stages, it is expected that production teams have not begun recruiting cast members publicly.
Assessing the Possible Direction for Characters in the Upcoming Transformers Feature
The decision over which characters will reappear hinges largely on the creative approach Bay takes with this new project. Should the new film continue the established story arc, it could revive familiar characters like Colonel Lennox to connect deeply with longtime fans. However, Bay and his team might opt for a complete reboot, introducing new characters and a fresh storyline to simplify the franchise’s complex continuity.
Reviving previous characters could invoke nostalgia but might also complicate the plot’s clarity given the existing layered narrative over multiple films. Launching a reboot from scratch could provide clearer storytelling opportunities and attract both new viewers and existing fans eager for a new chapter in the franchise.
Implications of Michael Bay’s Return on the Transformers Franchise
Michael Bay’s reported comeback as a producer, and possibly director, signals a significant moment for the Transformers series, known for its high-octane action and visual spectacle. Bay’s return may reinvigorate the franchise’s style that many fans associate with its initial success.
If production moves forward with established characters like Josh Duhamel’s Colonel Lennox, it could provide continuity and a sense of cohesion to the overarching story. Conversely, a reboot might allow for creative reinvention and modernization, possibly expanding the franchise’s audience.
As the project develops, fans can expect more updates regarding casting and storyline direction. The degree to which Bay’s vision aligns with either continuation or reboot will ultimately shape the franchise’s next phase in cinema.
