Dwayne Johnson has expressed interest in returning to the iconic role of The Scorpion King if a new installment of *The Mummy* franchise materializes. Speaking with *Entertainment Tonight*, Johnson emphasized his support for fellow actor Brendan Fraser, stating that the franchise primarily belongs to him. Johnson’s affection for Fraser is evident, as he described him as one of his greatest supporters.
Johnson first appeared in *The Mummy Returns* in 2001, where he portrayed The Scorpion King, a role that propelled him into stardom. The film grossed over $435 million worldwide and currently holds a 63% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. Following this success, Johnson starred in a spin-off, *The Scorpion King*, released in 2002, which earned $178 million globally. Despite this, the spin-off received mixed reviews, obtaining a mere 40% critics score and 37% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.
In his recent remarks, Johnson reiterated, “That is Brendan Fraser’s franchise. I love that man. If they want to call the Scorpion King, I know a guy who knows a guy. I would certainly consider it.” This statement reflects his willingness to return to the franchise that significantly impacted his career, even though he has not been in active discussions regarding *The Mummy 4*.
The Future of The Mummy Franchise
The *Mummy* franchise, originally established in 1932, has undergone various iterations, including five sequels between 1940 and 1955. The modern revival began with the 1999 release of *The Mummy*, starring Fraser, which was followed by several sequels featuring the same cast. The franchise has faced challenges in recent years, particularly with the release of the 2017 film directed by Alex Kurtzman, which starred Tom Cruise. Intended to kickstart a shared universe dubbed the Dark Universe, the film failed to resonate with audiences, leading to its cancellation.
Currently, a new *Mummy* film is slated for release in April 2024. Directed by Lee Cronin, this installment features actors Jack Reynor, Laia Costa, and May Calamawy. Fraser is reportedly in talks to return, potentially alongside his co-star Rachel Weisz, reigniting interest in the beloved franchise.
As anticipation builds for the upcoming film, the possibility of a reunion between Johnson and Fraser adds an exciting dimension to the franchise’s revival. Fans are eager to see how these developments unfold, especially with the legacy of *The Mummy* still resonating in popular culture today.
With Johnson’s open invitation to return, many are left wondering if a reunion of the original cast is on the horizon, potentially bringing a nostalgic element back to the franchise that has delighted audiences for over two decades.
