The first images from the set of The Mummy 4 have begun to circulate, showing something fans of the saga have been waiting years for: Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz sharing the screen once again as Rick O'Connell and Evelyn Carnahan.
The reason this news is generating so much interest now is simple. Both actors have not appeared on screen together playing these characters since The Mummy Returns, released in 2001. Nearly 25 years have passed since then, and the new installment promises to pick up their story without including the franchise's third film.
A reunion that brings back a classic adventure cinema couple
The released photographs show the two actors during the production of the sequel, with a closeness that has sparked all kinds of comments among fans on social media.
It is still unknown where Rick and Evelyn's relationship stands within the plot. There is no official confirmation on whether the characters are still married or if the story will introduce a twist in their bond, although the set photos point to a close dynamic between them.
From The Mummy (1999) to The Mummy Returns (2001)
The pair debuted in 1999 in The Mummy, directed by Stephen Sommers. Rick O'Connell was an American adventurer with a talent for getting into trouble, while Evelyn Carnahan was a librarian specializing in Egyptology. Their contrasting personalities were key to building one of the most memorable couples in late nineties adventure cinema.
In the 2001 sequel, The Mummy Returns, both characters already appeared married with a son, Alex, played by Freddie Boath. The chemistry between Fraser and Weisz remained intact, now with a more consolidated complicity as a couple and as a team facing danger.
What is known about the plot of The Mummy 4
Actor Michael Johnston, known for his role in Obsession, is part of the new film's cast. In an interview with Attitude magazine, Johnston clarified that he will not be playing Rick and Evelyn's son, as had been speculated, but rather a completely new character.
According to the actor himself, the production seeks to recapture the tone of the original 1999 film, combining action, chases, and humor from the very first scenes. Johnston has described a physically demanding shoot, with numerous action sequences worked on with the stunt team.
The Mummy 4 will set aside the third installment
The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor, released in 2008, replaced Rachel Weisz with Maria Bello in the role of Evelyn and failed to maintain the connection with the first two films. The new installment will ignore the events of that third film, allowing the story of Rick and Evelyn to be picked up from their original adventures.
Cast and creative team of The Mummy 4
The direction of The Mummy 4 is in the hands of Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, the duo known as Radio Silence, responsible for Ready or Not and recent installments of the Scream saga. The script is by David Coggeshall, while Sean Daniel returns as producer. William Sherak, James Vanderbilt, and Paul Neinstein are also participating in the production through Project X Entertainment.
The cast confirmed so far includes:
- Brendan Fraser as Rick O'Connell
- Rachel Weisz as Evelyn Carnahan
- John Hannah as Jonathan Carnahan
- Arnold Vosloo
- Oded Fehr as Ardeth Bay
- Kevin J. O'Connor as Beni Gabor
- Michael Johnston
- Numan Acar
Release date of The Mummy 4
The Mummy 4 is scheduled to hit theaters on May 19, 2028. Although there is still time to see the final result, the first images from the set have already managed to rekindle interest in one of the most beloved couples in adventure cinema of the last 25 years.
Frequently asked questions about The Mummy 4
When is The Mummy 4 released?
The film has a confirmed release date of May 19, 2028.
Are Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz returning to play Rick and Evelyn?
Yes, both actors are reprising their roles as Rick O'Connell and Evelyn Carnahan, characters who have not shared the screen since The Mummy Returns in 2001.
Does The Mummy 4 have any connection to Tomb of the Dragon Emperor?
No. The new film will ignore the events of that third installment, released in 2008, and will continue the story from the first two films.
Who is directing The Mummy 4?
The direction is in the hands of Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, known as Radio Silence, responsible for Ready or Not and the latest Scream installments.
Does Michael Johnston play Rick and Evelyn’s son?
No. The actor himself has clarified that his character is completely new and is not the son of the lead couple.
Which original actors are returning in The Mummy 4?
In addition to Fraser and Weisz, John Hannah, Arnold Vosloo, Oded Fehr, and Kevin J. O'Connor are returning, among other faces linked to the original saga.
