Jackie Chan Rush Hour 4 could move forward if President Donald Trump has his way, as he urges Paramount Pictures to take on the hit franchise starring Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker, should they succeed in acquiring Warner Bros. Discovery. This development comes at a time when major studios, including Paramount, are bidding for control of Warner Bros.’ substantial catalog, which features the Rush Hour series.
Paramount Eyes Control Over Rush Hour Franchise
Currently, Paramount does not possess the rights to Rush Hour, as the first three films in the franchise were released under New Line Cinema, part of Warner Bros. Should Paramount secure the Warner Bros. Discovery deal, they would gain ownership of a vast array of intellectual properties, including the potential for a new installment in the Rush Hour saga. Reports indicate that Trump is actively encouraging Paramount to relaunch the franchise if their bid is successful.
Controversy Surrounding the Sequel’s Production
The prospect of Jackie Chan Rush Hour 4 has circulated among studios, but a significant challenge has emerged regarding its direction. Bret Ratner, the director behind the previous three movies, became embroiled in controversy when allegations of sexual assault by multiple women surfaced during the Me Too movement in October 2017. These accusations prompted Warner Bros. to end their association with Ratner and have led to stalled progress on any sequel involving his participation.
Despite these circumstances, Trump’s apparent support for Ratner could influence the potential development of a new film within the Rush Hour series. Notably, Ratner also directed an Amazon MGM Studios documentary focusing on Melania Trump, which is scheduled for a theatrical release on January 30, 2026.
A Look Back at the Rush Hour Series
In the original movie, audiences were introduced to Jackie Chan’s portrayal of Chief Inspector Lee, a dedicated Hong Kong police officer tasked with tracking down the missing daughter of a Hong Kong diplomat in Los Angeles. Upon his arrival, Lee partners with Detective James Carter, played by Chris Tucker, whose brash style contrasts with Lee’s methodical approach. Together, they defy expectations, solving the high-stakes case through unconventional teamwork.
The first Rush Hour film debuted in 1998 and achieved significant commercial success, grossing $245 million worldwide. It led to the creation of two follow-up films: Rush Hour 2 in 2001 and Rush Hour 3 in 2007, solidifying the franchise’s place in pop culture.
What the Future Holds for Rush Hour 4
As the bidding war for Warner Bros. Discovery continues, the fate of Jackie Chan Rush Hour 4 remains uncertain, complicated by studio interests and unresolved issues surrounding its former director. The influence of Trump’s advocacy and potential changes in rights ownership may shape whether fans can expect Lee and Carter’s return to the big screen.
