Rush Hour 4 remains one of Hollywood’s most anticipated undeveloped sequels, with Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker still eager to reprise their iconic roles as Inspector Lee and Detective Carter. Although the film is officially in development, the project has been stalled for years, with Chan frequently urging the studio and writers to act quickly—joking that otherwise “Chris Tucker and me [will be] 100 years old” by the time the film is made .

Since late 2022, Chan has confirmed that discussions are ongoing, and he’s set to meet with a director to shape the script . The main challenge lies in crafting a script with “heart and soul,” beyond just action and comedy, as Chan emphasized the need for quality right from the start . Meanwhile, Chris Tucker has also expressed his interest, affirming that both stars and the studio are invested—though a finalized screenplay remains elusive.

A notable hurdle has been the absence of a director. Brett Ratner, who helmed the first three Rush Hour films, is widely expected not to return due to serious allegations and the fallout since 2017 . As a result, producers are seeking fresh creative talent to bring new energy and modern sensibilities to the franchise—someone who can preserve the dynamic Lee–Carter chemistry while reinvigorating the narrative .

Though the plot remains tightly under wraps, rumors suggest the film might feature an international storyline involving global crime—possibly a rescue mission or confrontation with an international smuggling network, reminiscent of the franchise’s globe-trotting roots . The speculation includes potential settings ranging from India to Tokyo or even Rio, with hints at personal stakes, such as involving Carter’s son .

Industry voices estimate that even if the film enters production soon, a realistic release date would fall in the 2027–2028 window, given the time needed for script refinement, director attachment, and actual filming . While the rumored 2026 target remains hopeful, no official launch date has been set.

Despite these uncertainties, the magnetic appeal of the original duo—combining Chan’s martial arts brilliance with Tucker’s energetic comedic timing—continues to fuel fan excitement. If given the right creative team and a compelling script, Rush Hour 4 could successfully bridge nostalgia with a new generation of audiences, delivering the trademark blend of action, humor, and cultural chemistry at the franchise’s core.