What Happened to Super Troopers (film franchise)?
The 'Super Troopers' film franchise, centered around the irreverent Vermont State Troopers of the Broken Lizard comedy troupe, began as a cult classic in 2001. After a successful fan-funded sequel in 2018, the franchise continued its unique brand of R-rated comedy with the theatrical release of 'Super Troopers 3' on August 7, 2026, demonstrating the enduring appeal and creative independence of the filmmaking team.
Quick Answer
The 'Super Troopers' film franchise has continued its legacy of cult comedy with the release of its third installment, 'Super Troopers 3,' on August 7, 2026. The original film gained a dedicated following, leading to 'Super Troopers 2' being successfully crowdfunded by fans in 2015. The Broken Lizard comedy troupe, responsible for writing and starring in the films, remains active, with discussions ongoing for potential future projects like 'Potfest' and a 'Tacoma FD' movie, solidifying their commitment to R-rated theatrical comedy.
📊Key Facts
📅Complete Timeline13 events
Broken Lizard Comedy Troupe Forms
The core members of Broken Lizard, including Jay Chandrasekhar, Kevin Heffernan, Steve Lemme, Paul Soter, and Erik Stolhanske, formed their comedy troupe at Colgate University.
Super Troopers Premieres at Sundance
The first 'Super Troopers' film, directed by Jay Chandrasekhar and starring the Broken Lizard troupe, had its premiere at the Sundance Film Festival.
Super Troopers Wide Theatrical Release
The original 'Super Troopers' received its wide theatrical release in the United States, eventually grossing $23.2 million worldwide and achieving cult status.
Super Troopers 2 Crowdfunding Campaign Launches
Broken Lizard launched an Indiegogo campaign to fund 'Super Troopers 2,' quickly surpassing its $2 million goal and ultimately raising over $4.7 million from fans.
Principal Photography Begins for Super Troopers 2
Filming for 'Super Troopers 2' commenced in Central Massachusetts, made possible by the successful crowdfunding campaign.
Super Troopers 2 Theatrical Release
The crowdfunded sequel, 'Super Troopers 2,' was released in theaters by Fox Searchlight Pictures, opening to $15.2 million and grossing $32 million worldwide.
Super Troopers 3: Winter Soldiers Title Announced
Director Jay Chandrasekhar announced the working title for a potential third film, 'Super Troopers 3: Winter Soldiers,' and that the team had begun writing the script.
Super Troopers 3 Officially in Deep Development
The third installment of the franchise was officially deep in development, with the core cast and director confirmed to return.
Principal Photography Begins for Super Troopers 3
Filming for 'Super Troopers 3' reportedly began, with production wrapping by October 2025.
Super Troopers 3 in Post-Production
A video update confirmed that 'Super Troopers 3' had completed filming in late 2025 and was in post-production, preparing for its summer debut.
Super Troopers 3 World Premiere at SDCC
The world premiere of 'Super Troopers 3' was held during San Diego Comic-Con 2026, with the Broken Lizard members in attendance.
Broken Lizard Confirms 'Potfest' Development
Steve Lemme of Broken Lizard confirmed that 'Potfest,' a long-teased sequel to 'Beerfest,' has officially begun development, alongside discussions for a 'Tacoma FD' movie.
Super Troopers 3 Theatrical Release
'Super Troopers 3' was released in theaters across the United States by Searchlight Pictures, marking the latest installment in the cult comedy franchise.
🔍Deep Dive Analysis
The 'Super Troopers' film franchise originated from the creative minds of the Broken Lizard comedy troupe, formed at Colgate University in 1989. Their first widely released feature, 'Super Troopers,' premiered in 2001, quickly achieving cult classic status despite a modest box office performance. The film, known for its irreverent humor and quotable lines, established the core group of Vermont State Troopers and their chaotic antics.
After years of fan demand, a sequel, 'Super Troopers 2,' faced challenges in securing traditional studio funding. This led Broken Lizard to launch a highly successful crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo in 2015, raising over $4.7 million from more than 54,000 donors, far exceeding their initial $2 million goal. This fan-driven financing was a pivotal turning point, demonstrating the immense dedication of their fanbase and allowing the troupe to maintain creative control. 'Super Troopers 2' was released in April 2018 by Fox Searchlight Pictures, opening to a strong $15.2 million and ultimately grossing $32 million worldwide against a $13.5 million budget.
Following the success of the second film, discussions for a third installment, initially titled 'Super Troopers 3: Winter Soldiers,' began. The project officially entered deep development in August 2025, with the full Broken Lizard team returning, including director Jay Chandrasekhar and co-stars Kevin Heffernan, Steve Lemme, Paul Soter, and Erik Stolhanske, alongside returning cast members like Brian Cox and Marisa Coughlan. New additions included Hannah Simone, Nat Faxon, and Chace Crawford.
'Super Troopers 3' was released by Searchlight Pictures on August 7, 2026, celebrating the 25th anniversary of the original film. The plot revolves around Farva's engagement to Thorny's sister, spiraling into chaos amidst a new drug ring investigation. The film premiered at San Diego Comic-Con 2026 and was marketed with a live-streamed Q&A event for opening night audiences. Critics have noted that the film embraces the franchise's signature broad humor and juvenile gags, staying true to its identity rather than attempting to modernize.
As of August 2026, the Broken Lizard troupe remains highly active. Steve Lemme confirmed in July 2026 that 'Potfest,' a long-teased sequel to their film 'Beerfest,' is officially in development. Additionally, a movie based on their television comedy 'Tacoma FD' is actively being discussed, alongside several other unexpected projects. This indicates a robust future for the comedy group beyond the 'Super Troopers' franchise, though a tag for a fourth 'Super Troopers' movie was included at the end of 'Super Troopers 3,' suggesting the possibility of further installments.
What If...?
Explore alternate histories. What if Super Troopers (film franchise) made different choices?