After nearly three decades since Lethal Weapon 4 exploded onto screens in 1998, the iconic buddy-cop franchise is poised for its long-awaited fifth chapter: Lethal Weapon 5: The Final Ride (also known in development as Lethal Weapon 5 or Lethal Finale). As of early 2026, the project remains in active development at Warner Bros., with Mel Gibson stepping in to direct and star as the reckless, suicidal Martin Riggs, alongside Danny Glover reprising his role as the family-oriented, “I’m too old for this shit” Roger Murtaugh. This legacy sequel honors the vision of the late Richard Donner (who directed the first four films and passed away in 2021 at age 91), as Gibson has confirmed he took over directing duties at Donner’s personal request to ensure the franchise gets a proper send-off.
The Lethal Weapon series redefined the buddy-cop genre starting in 1987: high-octane action, razor-sharp banter, explosive set pieces, and genuine emotional depth beneath the chaos. Gibson’s Riggs was the unhinged wildcard—grieving his wife’s death, flirting with death, and turning every stakeout into a demolition derby. Glover’s Murtaugh was the perfect counterbalance: the cautious veteran counting down to retirement, protecting his family while reluctantly diving into Riggs’ madness. Their chemistry carried the franchise through escalating threats—from drug cartels and South African diplomats to international triads—while introducing fan-favorite sidekicks like Joe Pesci’s Leo Getz and Rene Russo’s Lorna Cole.
Why Now? The Long Road to 2026
Talk of a fifth film dates back to the late 1990s, but momentum stalled after Lethal Weapon 4’s mixed reception and the rise of new action stars. Revived interest surged in the 2010s with the Lethal Weapon TV reboot (2016–2019, starring Damon Wayans and Clayne Crawford), but that series ended abruptly. By 2020, original writer Shane Black and Donner were developing a script, only for Donner’s death to derail progress. Gibson stepped up in 2021, confirming in interviews (including a 2024 podcast appearance) that he would direct to honor Donner’s legacy. In recent 2025–2026 updates, Gibson raved that the current screenplay is “really good” — “a lot of fun and got really emotional” — potentially “the best of all of them,” blending the series’ signature humor, over-the-top action, and deeper themes of aging, friendship, and mortality. Despite studio hesitations (budget concerns, the leads’ ages—Gibson turns 70 in 2026, Glover 80), no cancellation has occurred, and insiders describe it as quietly moving forward, possibly for theatrical release or a premium streaming debut on Max.
Mel Gibson as Martin Riggs — starring and directing, bringing his signature intensity and humor.
Danny Glover as Roger Murtaugh — the heart and soul, delivering timeless one-liners.
Potential returns: Joe Pesci (Leo Getz), Rene Russo (Lorna Cole), Traci Wolfe (Rianne Murtaugh), or even Chris Rock (from Lethal Weapon 4).
New faces could include younger cops or villains to bridge generations.
The film marks the first in the series not directed by Donner, but Gibson’s involvement ensures fidelity to the original spirit: fast-paced chases, shootouts, and buddy dynamics that feel authentic.
Why Fans Are Hyped in 2026
The franchise grossed over $950 million worldwide across four films and inspired countless imitators. In an era of legacy sequels (Top Gun: Maverick, Creed series), Lethal Weapon 5 offers a perfect nostalgic payoff—two aging legends proving they’re still lethal. Concept trailers flooding YouTube (fan-made with AI clips and classic footage) have millions of views, fueling demand. If it hits theaters or streams in late 2026, expect a cultural moment: one last ride for Riggs and Murtaugh, blending laughs, heart, and bullets.
Binge the first four films on Max or rent them now—then countdown to The Final Ride. Who’s ready to see Riggs and Murtaugh back in action? Drop a 🔥 if you’re hyped, tag your buddy-cop watch partner, and tell us: What’s your favorite Lethal Weapon moment?