Arnold Schwarzenegger Eyes Return to Iconic Roles in ‘Predator,’ ‘Conan,’ and ‘Commando’ Franchises
At 78 years old, Arnold Schwarzenegger is considering a return to the action roles that defined his career. The actor revealed during a conversation at the Arnold Sports Festival in Columbus, Ohio, that he is in talks with studios about reprising his roles in new installments of “Predator,” “Conan the Barbarian,” and “Commando.” This potential return to these beloved franchises has ignited excitement among fans eager to see the action icon back on the big screen. The news comes as studios are actively developing new iterations of these stories, tailored to Schwarzenegger’s current stage in life, according to the actor.
Schwarzenegger’s announcement signals a renewed interest from studios in leveraging his enduring star power. He noted that Fox Studios, now under Disney’s ownership, has “rediscovered” him, approaching him with scripts for both “Predator” and “Commando 2.” This marks a significant shift, suggesting a willingness to revisit established franchises with their iconic leads. The actor’s presence could breathe new life into these properties, attracting both longtime fans and a new generation of moviegoers.
‘King Conan’: A Mature Chapter for the Barbarian
The potential “Conan” project, currently titled “King Conan,” promises a different seize on the character. Rather than a young, rising warrior, this iteration would portray Conan as an aging king reflecting on his decades of rule. The storyline, as envisioned, would explore the challenges and complexities of leadership, delving into the final years of the legendary barbarian. According to Schwarzenegger, the studio has brought on a “fantastic writer/director who did Tom Cruise’s last four movies” to helm the project, suggesting a commitment to high-quality action and storytelling. This director is Christopher McQuarrie, known for his work on the *Mission: Impossible* franchise, including *Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One* and *Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part Two*.
The concept of “King Conan” aligns with a growing trend in Hollywood of revisiting established characters with a focus on maturity and legacy. This approach allows for deeper character exploration and a more nuanced narrative, appealing to audiences who have grown alongside these iconic figures. The idea of seeing Conan grapple with the responsibilities of kingship, rather than simply engaging in relentless combat, offers a compelling new dimension to the character.
A New Hunt: Schwarzenegger’s Potential Return to ‘Predator’
Schwarzenegger’s involvement in a new “Predator” film is particularly intriguing, given his starring role in the 1987 original. The actor confirmed that discussions are underway with director Dan Trachtenberg, who helmed the 2022 film *Prey*, a critically acclaimed installment in the franchise. Trachtenberg reportedly wants Schwarzenegger to be involved in the next installment, signaling a desire to connect the new films with the legacy of the original.
Arnold Schwarzenegger says “Conan 3” is in the works as “King Conan” and reveals new “Predator” movie talks and a “Commando 2” script exists.
“Fox studios has kind of rediscovered Arnold. They’ve reach to me and said, ‘We want you to do “Predator,” we just got a script for you… pic.twitter.com/TP3g11pznA
— Variety (@Variety) March 9, 2026
The success of *Prey* demonstrated the enduring appeal of the “Predator” franchise and its potential for reinvention. By bringing Schwarzenegger back into the fold, the studio could capitalize on nostalgia while simultaneously introducing fresh elements to the story. The dynamic between a seasoned veteran like Schwarzenegger and the technologically advanced Predator could create a compelling and suspenseful cinematic experience.
‘Commando 2’: A Blast from the Past
Alongside “Predator” and “Conan,” Schwarzenegger also revealed that a script for “Commando 2” has been presented to him. The original 1985 film, known for its over-the-top action and one-liners, remains a cult classic. While details about the sequel’s plot are scarce, the prospect of seeing Schwarzenegger reprise his role as Colonel John Matrix is sure to excite fans of the original. The return of *Commando* speaks to the current trend of revisiting 1980s action properties, capitalizing on nostalgia and offering a modern twist on familiar formulas.
The 1980s were a golden age for action cinema, and Schwarzenegger was at the forefront of the genre. Films like “Predator,” “Conan the Barbarian,” and “Commando” established him as a global superstar and cemented his status as an action icon. His ability to blend physicality, charisma, and humor made him a unique and enduring figure in Hollywood. A return to these roles would not only be a nostalgic treat for fans but also a testament to Schwarzenegger’s lasting impact on the genre.
While no deals are finalized, the conversations surrounding these projects indicate a strong possibility of seeing Schwarzenegger back in action. The actor’s willingness to revisit these roles, coupled with the studios’ enthusiasm, suggests that fans may soon have reason to celebrate. The potential involvement of Christopher McQuarrie on “King Conan” further elevates the prospects for a high-quality and compelling film.
What’s Next?
As of March 11, 2026, the projects remain in the development phase. No official release dates have been announced. Further updates are expected as negotiations progress and scripts are finalized. Fans can stay informed by following industry news sources like Variety and People for the latest developments.
What do you think about the possibility of Arnold Schwarzenegger returning to these iconic roles? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with fellow action movie fans!