What Happened to Rush Hour (Film Franchise)?

The 'Rush Hour' film franchise began with the release of its eponymous first film in 1998, introducing audiences to the unlikely pairing of Hong Kong Police Force Chief Inspector Lee (Jackie Chan) and Los Angeles Police Department Detective James Carter (Chris Tucker). Directed by Brett Ratner, the film was a commercial success, grossing over $245 million worldwide against a $33 million budget, establishing the buddy-cop action-comedy as a popular formula.

Two successful sequels followed: 'Rush Hour 2' in 2001, which became the most financially successful film in the series with over $340 million worldwide, and 'Rush Hour 3' in 2007, which grossed over $250 million globally. The films were praised for the chemistry between Chan and Tucker, blending martial arts action with comedic elements and cultural clash humor.

Following the trilogy, a television series based on the franchise aired on CBS from March to August 2016, starring Jon Foo as Lee and Justin Hires as Carter. While Brett Ratner served as an executive producer, the series received generally negative reviews and was short-lived.

Discussions for a fourth film, 'Rush Hour 4,' have been ongoing for many years, with both Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker expressing interest in reprising their roles. However, the project faced significant hurdles, particularly after sexual misconduct allegations against director Brett Ratner emerged in 2017, leading Warner Bros. to sever ties with him and casting the future of the franchise into uncertainty.

The landscape for 'Rush Hour 4' dramatically shifted in late 2025 and early 2026. In November 2025, it was reported that Paramount Pictures was set to distribute the film, with Brett Ratner making a comeback to direct. This revival was reportedly influenced by U.S. President Donald Trump, who encouraged Paramount owner David Ellison to move forward with the project. Ratner's return to directing was solidified with the release of his documentary 'Melania' in January 2026, seen as his vehicle back into mainstream Hollywood.

As of April 2026, 'Rush Hour 4' is officially in pre-production, with filming anticipated to commence in Fall 2026. While the budget is expected to exceed $100 million, final deals with Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker are still being negotiated, though both are attached to star. The plot is rumored to involve Lee and Carter investigating a global wildlife poaching ring, with filming locations planned across China, Africa, and Saudi Arabia. The long-awaited sequel aims to reunite the iconic duo for a new global adventure nearly two decades after their last outing.