Hold onto your hats, action movie fans! Lionsgate has just made a massive power move, securing a major deal that will reshape the future of two iconic franchises: Rambo and The Expendables! This agreement promises exciting new content across multiple platforms, and it's something to get excited about.
So, what's the deal? Lionsgate has acquired the rights to develop and produce all derivative works of The Expendables, including future films, television shows, and even video games. This means we could see a whole new world of Expendables content in the coming years! They've also snagged the worldwide distribution rights to John Rambo, the upcoming sixth installment of the Rambo series.
But that's not all. Lionsgate is now the lead studio and production partner for all future Rambo television projects. They also have the opportunity to participate in future Rambo films. Talk about a win-win! This partnership opens the door for Lionsgate to create derivative works based on The Expendables, including films, TV series, video games, and other cross-platform extensions. This is a huge opportunity to expand these beloved universes and reach new audiences.
And here's some exciting news for Rambo fans: Noah Centineo is reportedly in final negotiations to take on the iconic role in John Rambo! The film will be directed by Jalmari Helander, the visionary behind Sisu. Production is scheduled to begin next year in Thailand, and Lionsgate will be launching sales for the film at the upcoming AFM.
John Rambo will be produced by Millennium Media and Templeton Media, from a screenplay by Rory Haines and Sohrab Noshirvani (known for their work on The Mauritanian and Black Adam). Kevin King Templeton, Les Weldon, and Jonathan Yunger will produce, with Dallas Sonnier and Amanda Presmyk of Bonfire Legend serving as executive producers.
"This deal expands Lionsgate’s portfolio of genre-defining action franchises and reinforces our commitment to delivering world-class IP across multiple platforms," stated Brian Goldsmith, COO of Lionsgate. "We’re excited to reimagine both ‘The Expendables’ and ‘Rambo’ across film and television — and with ‘John Rambo,’ we’re bringing together a bold creative team to reinvent a classic character for a new generation of fans.”
Jonathan Yunger, president of Millennium Media, added, “We’ve always believed in the enduring power of these franchises, and this partnership gives them the scale, creative support and global reach they deserve. Lionsgate’s strong track record with major action properties makes it the ideal partner to help shape the next chapters of ‘The Expendables’ and ‘Rambo.’”
Lionsgate already has a strong relationship with these franchises, distributing all existing The Expendables films, along with Rambo (IV) and Rambo: Last Blood in the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. They also distribute First Blood, Rambo: First Blood Part II, and Rambo III across Latin America and Southeast Asia.
But here's where it gets controversial... The casting of Noah Centineo as Rambo has sparked some debate among fans. Some are excited about a fresh take on the character, while others are skeptical. What do you think? Will Centineo be able to fill Sylvester Stallone's shoes? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
This deal was negotiated by Goldsmith, Charlotte Koh (executive vice president and co-head of acquisitions), and Christopher Davis (senior vice president of business and legal affairs) on behalf of Lionsgate. CEO Trevor Short and Yunger negotiated for Millennium Media.
