Producer Jerry Bruckheimer Confirms 'National Treasure 3' Development Progressing at Disney
In a significant update for long-time fans, veteran Hollywood producer Jerry Bruckheimer has confirmed that work on 'National Treasure 3' is actively moving forward at Disney. The announcement comes nearly two decades after the last installment in the popular adventure franchise, offering renewed hope for the series' theatrical return.
Red Carpet Update at Producers' Guild Awards
Bruckheimer shared the encouraging news while attending the Producers' Guild Awards, where he was supporting his PGA-nominated film 'F1.' Speaking to The Direct on the red carpet, the producer confirmed the long-discussed sequel remains active at Disney and development is progressing behind the scenes.
"Coming along quite well," Bruckheimer responded when asked about the status of 'National Treasure 3.' He elaborated that the team is currently focused on the script, stating, "We're working on the script for it right now."
Script Development and Creative Team Details
The update follows 2024 reports that Disney had officially restarted development on a third film in the adventure series. Bruckheimer had previously confirmed that screenwriter Ted Elliott, who is also working on the next installment of the 'Pirates of the Caribbean' franchise, is penning the screenplay for the new 'National Treasure' project.
The original films starred Nicolas Cage as historian and treasure hunter Ben Gates, who tracks legendary artifacts while solving intricate historical puzzles. The franchise launched with 'National Treasure' in 2004, followed by 'National Treasure: Book of Secrets' in 2007. Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, both films performed strongly at the box office and cultivated a dedicated fan base that has eagerly awaited a third installment for years.
Nicolas Cage's Return Remains Crucial Element
Interest in a third film has surfaced repeatedly since 2007, but the project has faced multiple delays and setbacks. Disney attempted to expand the universe with the Disney+ series 'National Treasure: Edge of History' in 2022, but the show was canceled after just one season.
In late 2025, Bruckheimer told The Wrap that the team was making progress, stating "We're getting closer" while noting plans for Nicolas Cage to return and for original director Jon Turteltaub to come back. However, Cage himself appeared uncertain about the sequel during a 2024 interview with Screen Rant, declaring "There is no National Treasure 3" at that time.
Despite Cage's previous comment, Bruckheimer continues to express confidence that the franchise will return to theaters. If Cage ultimately signs on again, the long-awaited sequel would continue the story of Ben Gates and bring the popular adventure series back to cinemas after nearly twenty years.
Franchise Legacy and Future Prospects
The 'National Treasure' franchise has maintained cultural relevance through:
- Strong box office performance of the original films
- A loyal fan base that has persisted through years of delays
- Multiple attempts to expand the universe through television
- Continued interest from producer Jerry Bruckheimer and Disney
As script development progresses, fans remain hopeful that the combination of Bruckheimer's production expertise, Ted Elliott's screenplay work, and the potential return of Nicolas Cage will finally bring 'National Treasure 3' to fruition after years of anticipation.
