Fans awaiting the fifth installment of the beloved "Lethal Weapon" franchise, starring Mel Gibson and Danny Glover, may face further disappointment as recent updates suggest "Lethal Weapon 5" is far from a certainty, if it ever materializes. The original four films, released between 1987 and 1998, cemented the duo's iconic partnership, with the final entry, "Lethal Weapon 4," famously overcoming a ballooning budget to gross $285 million globally despite a troubled production.

Despite years of speculation and talks, concrete steps forward for "Lethal Weapon 5" have been scarce. Director Allan Ungar, who recently worked with Mel Gibsonon the 2022 film "Bandit," shared insights from his discussions with Gibson regarding the sequel's status. Ungar noted that while Gibson has a clear vision for the film's direction, its progress remains uncertain within the development landscape of Warner Brothers and New Line. Furthermore, Ungar candidly questioned the necessity of a fifth film, suggesting that "Lethal Weapon 4" offered a "poignant" conclusion to the series.

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The primary reason for the extended delay and uncertainty appears to be Mel Gibson's commitment to other significant projects. Gibson had confirmed last year his intention to direct "Lethal Weapon 5," stepping into the role previously held by the late Richard Donner, who passed away in 2021. However, later statements from Gibson highlighted the inherent obstacles in film production, casting doubt on the project's feasibility. Richard Wenk is credited as a writer for the potential sequel.

Gibson's immediate focus is now firmly on "The Passion of the Christ" sequel, titled "The Resurrection of the Christ." Filming for this highly anticipated movie commenced earlier this year in Italy, with Jim Caviezel reprising his role as Jesus. The project is planned as a two-part narrative, with "Part One" eyeing a release date of March 26, 2027, and "Part Two" scheduled to follow shortly after on May 6, 2027. Both segments are slated for back-to-back production, expected to wrap sometime next year.

This demanding schedule confirms that Gibson will be occupied for a considerable period, effectively sidelining "Lethal Weapon 5." As Gibson dedicates his efforts to "The Resurrection of the Christ," the future of "Lethal Weapon 5" remains in limbo, leaving fans to ponder whether the beloved franchise will ever receive its long-anticipated final chapter.