Yes, there is movement on a fourth Maze Runner entry—but not in the way fans might expect. It’s not a straight-up sequel or remake, but rather a fresh continuation set in the same universe. As of now, it’s still early days, with writer Jack Paglen in talks and original director Wes Ball attached as a producer—but no casting, filming, or release date has been revealed.
What’s Actually in the Works?
A Continuation, Not a Sequel
Disney’s 20th Century Studios describes the project as neither a reboot nor a remake. Instead, it’s being developed as a new story set in the same world, with new characters and a revived sense of adventure.
Jack Paglen—known for Transcendence and writing on Alien: Covenant—is in talks to write the new installment. Meanwhile, Wes Ball, who helmed the original trilogy, will stay involved as producer.
Cast and Timing: Nobody’s Called Dylan O’Brien (Yet)
Dylan O’Brien, who played Thomas, says he had no idea about this in-development project. He joked, “I don’t even get a call, let alone a check,” though he also left the door open if invited.
Why the Studio Might Move Forward
Fan Base and Franchise Value
While the trilogy wrapped with The Death Cure, the universe remains rich. Fans continue to theorize about further storytelling—especially considering the lucrative box office history. That said, the creators of the original trilogy were clear they preferred a clean three-film arc, resisting expansion beyond that.
Disney’s Playbook
Disney’s approach mirrors their strategy with Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes—not rewriting the past, but building something new in an existing world.
Hidden Challenges and Fan Reactions
No Production Yet
TechBloat reports that as of late 2023, there is zero official confirmation—no scripts, cast contracts, or release dates. The film remains firmly conceptual.
Some industry projections place a possible release between 2025 and 2026—if the project truly moves forward.
Fans Are… Skeptical
Online chatter is filled with hope and doubt. Some Reddit users note the original cast may be unavailable or uninterested—raising questions about the emotional tie for fans. Others speculate the studio might eventually adapt prequel novels like The Kill Order, but again—no confirmations.
In Summary
- Yes, development is underway—but it’s shaping up as a new story, not a direct sequel or reboot.
- Writer Jack Paglen is in talks, with Wes Ball returning as producer.
- No actor from the original trilogy, including Dylan O’Brien, has been confirmed.
- No official production timeline or release date exists; industry estimates point toward 2025–2026, though that’s speculative.
- Fan sentiment is mixed—some are excited, others wary or doubtful.
What Could Change?
- Studio green-light and script approval could shift this idea from rumor to reality.
- Fan reaction or internal strategy changes might accelerate or stall production.
- Disney’s evolving priorities—streaming focus, bigger franchises—will heavily influence whether this goes ahead.
FAQs
Will Maze Runner 4 bring back Thomas and the original cast?
There’s no confirmation yet. Dylan O’Brien has said he wasn’t contacted, though he’d consider returning if approached.
Is this a reboot or remake of the original trilogy?
No, it’s more of a fresh continuation—set in the same world, but focusing on new characters and storylines.
When could Maze Runner 4 come out?
Nobody knows for sure. Industry speculation ranges from late 2025 to mid‑2026, but with no formal greenlight yet.
Is the project officially confirmed?
Only in the sense that it’s in development. No filming or production has been confirmed.
Why is there still interest in continuing the franchise?
The dystopian YA space remains compelling for audiences. The world of Maze Runner has a built-in following and commercial potential.
The Maze Runner universe might yet run again—but for now, it’s merely a whisper of a possibility, not a full sprint underway.
