The enduring appeal of The Mummy (1999) has experienced an explosive resurgence, culminating in the most exciting news for fans in over a decade: a potential reunion of the original, beloved cast. As of December 2025, industry buzz is at an all-time high, with reports confirming that the iconic duo, Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz, are in serious discussions to reprise their roles in a brand-new installment of the action-adventure franchise. This fresh update comes after years of speculation and the disappointing attempt to reboot the series in 2017, proving that the chemistry of Rick O’Connell and Evelyn Carnahan is simply irreplaceable.
The original film, directed by Stephen Sommers, launched a blockbuster trilogy and cemented its place as a cornerstone of modern adventure cinema. But what have the stars been doing in the years since they last battled the resurrected High Priest Imhotep? More importantly, who else from the original cast might be joining the long-awaited return to the sands of Egypt? We delve into the current projects and latest developments for the actors who brought this classic tale to life.
The Original Cast of The Mummy (1999) and Their 2025 Status
The success of the 1999 film, and its sequels The Mummy Returns (2001) and The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor (2008), was built entirely on the shoulders of its charismatic ensemble. Here is a look at the core cast members and their recent activities, including their involvement in the potential new film.
- Brendan Fraser as Rick O’Connell: The swashbuckling American adventurer and former Foreign Legionnaire.
- Rachel Weisz as Evelyn "Evelyn" Carnahan: The brilliant, yet clumsy, English Egyptologist.
- John Hannah as Jonathan Carnahan: Evelyn's cowardly, yet loyal, older brother.
- Arnold Vosloo as High Priest Imhotep: The titular mummy, the ancient Egyptian priest and the main antagonist.
- Oded Fehr as Ardeth Bay: The leader of the Medjai, the secret society sworn to protect the world from Imhotep.
Brendan Fraser (Rick O’Connell): The Oscar-Winning Comeback
After a period away from the spotlight, Brendan Fraser's career has experienced one of the most celebrated comebacks in Hollywood history, often referred to as the "Brenaissance." His dramatic turn in the film The Whale earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor in 2023, solidifying his status as a major dramatic force.
In 2025, Fraser is set to star in the comedy-drama film Rental Family, directed by Hikari. This highly anticipated project further diversifies his filmography, moving him beyond the action-adventure roles he is best known for. The recent news of his discussions to return for a new *Mummy* film—a possible *The Mummy 4*—has thrilled fans who believe his return is essential to the franchise's spirit.
Rachel Weisz (Evelyn Carnahan): From Action Heroine to Prestige Star
Rachel Weisz, who played the witty and intellectually curious Evelyn Carnahan, has carved out a highly respected career in prestige cinema and television. She notably did not return for the third film, Tomb of the Dragon Emperor, a decision many fans believe contributed to that film's lukewarm reception.
Her recent major role was starring in the 2023 limited series Dead Ringers, a psychological thriller based on the 1988 David Cronenberg film, where she played twin gynecologists. Her current focus remains on high-caliber, critically acclaimed projects. The fact that she is reportedly in talks alongside Fraser for a new Mummy movie is a massive indicator that the studio is committed to recapturing the original film's magic.
John Hannah (Jonathan Carnahan): The Comic Relief’s Latest Roles
John Hannah, whose character Jonathan Carnahan provided much of the trilogy’s comic relief and heart, has continued his prolific career across British and international television and film. His presence is considered a key component of the original ensemble's success.
In 2024, Hannah starred in the films Damaged and This Time Next Year. Looking ahead, he is slated to star in the historical adventure series Sandokan, set for release in 2025. While his involvement in the rumored *The Mummy 4* is not yet confirmed, the return of both Fraser and Weisz strongly suggests that the producers would prioritize bringing back the iconic brother-sister-in-law dynamic.
Arnold Vosloo (Imhotep): The Immortal Antagonist’s New Ventures
Arnold Vosloo’s portrayal of the High Priest Imhotep remains one of the most terrifying yet sympathetic monster performances in modern cinema. Although his character's fate seemed sealed, the world of The Mummy always leaves the door open for a return.
Vosloo has maintained a busy schedule with a focus on action and drama. His recent filmography includes Condor's Nest (2023) and the upcoming 2025 films London Calling and Sniper: The Last Stand. Intriguingly, he was also recently reported to be shooting for a new film starring Indian actor Vijay Deverakonda, showing his continued global reach.
Oded Fehr (Ardeth Bay): Protecting the World on Screen
Oded Fehr, who played the stoic and formidable Medjai leader Ardeth Bay, has become a mainstay in science fiction and fantasy television. His character was a fan-favorite, representing the ancient, mystical side of the franchise.
Fehr recently wrapped up his recurring role as Fleet Admiral Charles Vance in the final season of the Paramount+ series Star Trek: Discovery in 2024. Additionally, he is set to return as Abner in the second season of the Prime Video series House of David, which was in production in late 2025. His consistent work in genre projects makes him a prime candidate for a return to the action-packed world of *The Mummy 4*, should the script call for the Medjai's involvement.
The New Direction: A Horror-Comedy Team Takes Over
The most intriguing detail about the potential *The Mummy 4* is the change in creative direction. The film is reportedly being helmed by director Matt Bettinelli-Olpin, who is part of the filmmaking collective known as Radio Silence.
Radio Silence, which also includes Tyler Gillett and Chad Villella, is renowned for its successful blend of horror and dark comedy in films like Ready or Not and the recent installments of the Scream franchise. This choice suggests that the new Mummy film will likely lean back into the original 1999 film's successful mix of swashbuckling adventure, light comedy, and genuine horror, rather than the serious, action-heavy tone of the later sequels.
This creative pivot is a clear signal that Universal Pictures is moving away from the failed formula of the 2017 reboot and embracing the unique tone that made the Brendan Fraser-led films a cult phenomenon.
The Failed Reboot: Why The Mummy (2017) Missed the Mark
In 2017, Universal attempted to launch its "Dark Universe"—a shared cinematic universe featuring its classic monsters—with a new version of The Mummy starring Tom Cruise as Nick Morton and Sofia Boutella as the mummy Ahmanet.
Despite the star power of Tom Cruise, the film was widely considered a box office and critical failure. Critics and audiences largely felt the movie prioritized setting up a future cinematic universe over telling a compelling, self-contained story. Furthermore, it adopted a much darker, more serious action-horror tone that lacked the adventurous spirit and humor that defined the 1999 original. The failure led to the immediate collapse of the entire Dark Universe project, paving the way for the triumphant return of the original cast's legacy.
The lessons learned from the 2017 attempt—that a franchise needs heart, humor, and a focus on character over world-building—are clearly influencing the studio's decision to bring back Fraser and Weisz. As the news of the original cast's comeback continues to develop into 2025, fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating the official green light for Rick and Evy's next great adventure.
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