Rush Hour 4: What We Know About the Franchise’s Comeback and Trump’s Possible Connection
Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker in ‘Rush Hour 2’.
Credit:
Moviestore/Shutterstock
A New Chapter for the Rush Hour Franchise
A new installment in the Rush Hour franchise, tentatively titled Rush Hour 4, has been officially greenlit by Paramount. This significant move comes in the wake of lobbying efforts by President Donald Trump.
In November 2025, various outlets reported that the production was approved following Trump’s involvement, as he advocated for the project on behalf of Brett Ratner, the director of the original 1998 film. This information was shared by Matthew Belloni of Puck on social media.
Ratner’s return to the director’s chair marks his first significant project in Hollywood since multiple allegations of sexual misconduct came to light during the #MeToo movement in 2017. He was accused by several women, including Olivia Munn and Natasha Henstridge, claims he has consistently denied.
Rush Hour 4 has been a topic of discussion since 2022, but progress stalled until now. Most details regarding the cast remain unconfirmed, including whether original stars Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker will reprise their roles.
Directorial History
Brett Ratner has signed on to direct Rush Hour 4, bringing back his experience from the original film and its two sequels, Rush Hour 2 and Rush Hour 3. He is also known for directing films such as Red Dragon and X-Men: The Last Stand, and was an executive producer for the television series Prison Break.
However, Ratner’s past has overshadowed his career, particularly following the accusations made against him, which he has always denied. He has largely stayed out of the public eye since those allegations emerged.
Cast Speculations
At this point, there is no confirmed cast for Rush Hour 4, including whether Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker will return as Detective Lee and Detective Carter. However, both actors have indicated a willingness to reprise their iconic roles.
During a May 2025 interview with ScreenRant, Chan humorously suggested that it’s about time for the new film. "Ask the director, ask the studio, ask the writer. Hurry up! Otherwise, Chris Tucker and me [will be] 100 years old," he quipped.
Tucker, while not echoing similar concerns about aging, expressed enthusiasm for returning to the role, noting his deep appreciation for working with Chan.
President Trump’s Involvement
President Trump’s involvement seems to align with his recent pattern of influencing major media decisions. He reportedly collaborated with Paramount Skydance shareholder Larry Ellison to advocate for Rush Hour 4. While the exact impetus for this advocacy remains unclear, it aligns with a broader strategy of engaging with influential media figures.
Earlier in 2025, Trump’s activities drew scrutiny when Paramount settled a lawsuit he filed over alleged misrepresentations made by CBS News. Paramount ultimately agreed to direct $16 million to Trump’s future presidential library as part of that settlement.
Release Timeline
As of now, there is no confirmed release date for Rush Hour 4.
Availability of Previous Films
Meanwhile, fans of the franchise can enjoy Rush Hour, Rush Hour 2, and Rush Hour 3, all of which are available for free streaming on Pluto TV.
