Rian Johnson Confirms Future of Knives Out Depends on Him

UPDATE: Rian Johnson has just confirmed that the future of the *Knives Out* film series hinges on his involvement, setting an uncompromising condition for any potential sequels. In a recent interview with Variety, Johnson revealed that he is the sole creator he trusts to write and direct *Knives Out 4* and beyond.

Johnson stated, “I don’t see it as IP. Each *Knives Out* film is something I want to make. If that stops being the case, we won’t do another one.” This statement comes amid Johnson’s enthusiasm about continuing the franchise alongside *Benoit Blanc* actor, Daniel Craig. Johnson expressed excitement about the creative possibilities, saying, “Creatively, I feel energized after making this one,” indicating plans are already in motion for future installments.

The filmmaker’s strong stance means that no *Knives Out* film will proceed without his creative direction. “Absolutely not. It’s mine. They’ll have to pry it out of my cold, dead hands,” Johnson declared when asked about other directors taking the reins. He emphasized that if Craig decides he no longer wants to participate, the series will conclude, stating, “If Daniel stops having fun or decides he doesn’t want to do it anymore, then, as far as I’m concerned, the series is over.”

This announcement comes on the heels of the world premiere of the third film, *Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery*, at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 6, 2025. The film is set to release in select U.S. theaters today, November 26, 2025, and will begin streaming on Netflix on December 12, 2025.

Fans of the franchise are eagerly awaiting the next chapter, but this latest news confirms that the continuation of the beloved *Knives Out* series relies heavily on Johnson’s creative vision and Craig’s participation. For now, all eyes will be on the reception of the new film and potential hints about what lies ahead for Detective Blanc and his next mystery.