Liputan6.com, Jakarta Rush Hour 4 is reportedly in active development at Paramount Pictures.
This news is a welcome relief after a long wait, especially with the potential return of iconic duo Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker to the big screen.
The development of the fourth installment in this popular franchise has been in the spotlight, not only because of the return of its long-time stars and director, but also because of reports of prominent political interference.
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Former US President Donald Trump is said to have played a significant role in reviving the stalled project.
Trump's involvement in the revival of Rush Hour 4 has sparked much speculation and discussion.
‘RUSH HOUR 4’ has been greenlit at Paramount, after push from Donald Trump. • Paramount is teaming up with Warner Bros. to distribute• Brett Ratner, who coincidentally just made a documentary about Melania Trump, will return to direct. (Source: Deadline) pic.twitter.com/Yn43RGiLmi
— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) November 25, 2025
Rush Hour 4 Development and Production Challenges
The Rush Hour 4 project has been a hot topic in Hollywood for years, facing significant challenges.
One major obstacle is the involvement of director Brett Ratner, who previously directed all three Rush Hour films.
Ratner, who will return to direct the fourth film, faced sexual misconduct allegations in 2017, which stalled his career and caused many studios to reject projects involving him.
However, Paramount Pictures now appears poised to take over distribution on behalf of Warner Bros. Discovery.
Jackie Chan, now 71, and Chris Tucker, 54, have expressed interest in reprising their roles as Chief Inspector Lee and Detective James Carter, respectively.
Chan even revealed in 2022 that they were in discussions about ideas for the film, demonstrating the enthusiasm of the main cast.
Ratner's return for his first feature film project since 2014 marks a new chapter in his career.
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Donald Trump's Role in the Film Project Revitalization
The most surprising aspect of the Rush Hour 4 development is the reported role of Donald Trump in reviving the franchise.
According to sources, Trump personally lobbied Larry Ellison, the largest shareholder of Paramount Skydance and a Trump financial backer, to resume production on behalf of Brett Ratner.
The relationship between Ratner and the Trump family deepened after Ratner directed the documentary about First Lady Melania Trump, "Melania," for Amazon MGM Studios, scheduled for release in January 2026.
Trump himself is reportedly a big fan of films like Rush Hour and Bloodsport, starring Jean-Claude Van Damme.
The former president's involvement has sparked speculation and commentary on social media, including jokes about a possible Trump cameo or an unusual production credit.
Potential Plot and Previous Franchise Success
While no full synopsis has been released, rumors indicate that Chief Inspector Lee and Detective Carter will once again team up on a high-profile case that could have international overtones.
There are also rumors of new characters being introduced, including Carter and Genevieve's possible daughter, which could add a new dynamic to the story.
The Rush Hour franchise has an impressive track record of financial success.
The first three films collectively grossed over $850 million worldwide.
The first film (1998) grossed $245.3 million, followed by Rush Hour 2 (2001) with $347.4 million, and Rush Hour 3 (2007) with $256.5 million.
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