'Bridgerton' star Jonathan Bailey in talks for 'Jurassic World 4'
Bridgerton actor Jonathan Bailey is reportedly in discussions with Amblin Entertainment and Universal for a leading role in the next installment of the Jurassic World franchise. According to Deadline, Scarlett Johansson's name has also been linked to the project. If these casting rumors are confirmed, it would mark a new era for the series, following three films starring Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard.
Why does this story matter?
The iconic sci-fi franchise, Jurassic Park—originated from Michael Crichton's novels, acquired by Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment in 1990. While the initial films were inspired by Crichton's work, subsequent installments, starting with Jurassic Park III (2001), ventured beyond his narratives. The franchise's resurgence began with Jurassic World in 2015, followed by the successful Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom (2018). The trilogy concluded with Jurassic World: Dominion (2022), further solidifying its billion-dollar legacy.
Gareth Edwards to direct 'Jurassic World 4'
Gareth Edwards—known for his work on The Creator and Rogue One: A Star Wars Story—has taken over as director of Jurassic World 4. This decision follows uncertainty regarding whether David Leitch, famed for The Fall Guy, would helm the project. The latest installment in the franchise is reportedly scheduled for release on July 2, 2025, after a period of declining audience interest in the series originally initiated by Steven Spielberg over three decades ago.
David Koepp will return to 'Jurassic World' writers' room
David Koepp, the writer behind the original Jurassic Park, is set to return for the upcoming film. Koepp, who also penned the sequel The Lost World, has had a successful career beyond this series with works like Carlito's Way, Mission: Impossible, and Spider-Man. While Jeff Goldblum, Laura Dern, and Sam Neill returned for the previous film, Jurassic World: Dominion, they are not expected to be part of this new installment.
Bailey's upcoming projects in the meantime
While anticipating Bailey's potential appearance in the dinosaur movie, viewers can indulge in his acclaimed limited historical romance thriller, Fellow Travelers, available for streaming on Showtime with all eight episodes. Later this year, fans can look forward to his portrayal of the endearing yet clueless Prince Fiyero in Jon M. Chu's Wicked: Part One, marking another milestone in the multi-talented performer's career journey. Bailey's portrayal of Lord Anthony in the Regency romance series Bridgerton (2020-present) catapulted him to international acclaim.
