Producer Jerry Bruckheimer recently revealed new details about the competition between the planned sequels Top Gun 3 and Pirates of the Caribbean 6, addressing fans eager to know which project will hit theaters first. Speaking at the 98th Oscars Nominees Luncheon, Bruckheimer described the race as closely contested, with Top Gun 3 currently holding a slight advantage as a script is anticipated soon.
Progress and Development Status of Both Franchises
Following the enormous success of Top Gun: Maverick in 2022, which grossed nearly $1.5 billion worldwide, anticipation for a third movie has grown. Despite the enthusiasm, confirmed details about Top Gun 3 have been limited, making Bruckheimer’s update particularly significant. At the same time, the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise has remained stalled since the 2017 release of Dead Men Tell No Tales, despite its impressive $4.5 billion global box office across five films.
Multiple scripts for Pirates 6 have been in development, featuring different storylines involving Johnny Depp’s iconic Jack Sparrow and alternatives that include Margot Robbie. However, none of these versions have moved into production yet, reflecting the challenges Disney faces in deciding the franchise’s next direction.
The Ongoing “Horse Race” Between Top Gun 3 and Pirates 6
Bruckheimer characterized the situation as
“a horse race between the two of them,”
adding,
“Right now, Top Gun is a hair ahead, but that’s it. We’re expecting a script shortly.”
This phrasing indicates that while both projects are progressing, only Top Gun 3 has reached a concrete stage with an expected screenplay. In Hollywood development cycles where many projects stall indefinitely, receiving a script signals forward momentum.
Pirates 6 remains very much in consideration, with ongoing discussions suggesting that the Disney studio has not abandoned the franchise. The delay may reflect efforts to find the right creative path amid changing leadership and evolving franchise strategies across the industry.
Factors Influencing the Sequels’ Timelines
Several key elements influence which sequel will be ready first. Tom Cruise’s involvement plays a crucial role for Top Gun 3, as his availability and interest are essential. For Pirates 6, uncertainty around Johnny Depp’s potential return and the possibility of shifting the franchise in new directions create additional complexities.
Margot Robbie’s production company, LuckyChap, has reportedly participated in developing a Pirates-related project. Though Robbie previously stated her version seemed stalled, rumors linger that her involvement may not be entirely off the table. Her role could range from starring to producing or contributing in early creative stages. Bruckheimer has previously explained that “involved” can cover a broad spectrum of participation.
What This Means for Fans and the Studios
The close competition between these two high-profile sequels reflects broader industry dynamics, including studio leadership changes and the need to strategically position major franchises. Whichever film premieres first will signal Disney and Jerry Bruckheimer’s current priorities and approaches to blockbuster filmmaking.
In the meantime, fans looking to revisit the franchises can stream Top Gun: Maverick on Paramount+, while the full Pirates of the Caribbean series remains available on Disney+.
