URGENT UPDATE: The future of the beloved Knives Out film series hinges on a crucial condition set by Rian Johnson, the mastermind behind all three films. In a recent interview with Variety, Johnson made it clear: no one else will direct or write a Knives Out sequel without him.
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 announcement follows his expressed enthusiasm for another installment featuring Daniel Craig as Detective Benoit Blanc, indicating that the creative duo is already brainstorming ideas for a potential fourth film.
The latest installment, titled Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 6, 2025, and is set to hit select US theaters today, November 26, 2025. Streaming will begin on Netflix on December 12, 2025.
Johnson’s commitment to the series is unwavering. He emphasized, “Absolutely not. It’s mine. They’ll have to pry it out of my cold, dead hands,” when asked if another filmmaker could take over. Furthermore, he pointed out that the series would come to an end if Craig ever decided to step back, 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 strong stance reflects Johnson’s deep affection for the Knives Out projects, ensuring that any future films will maintain the unique vision he has crafted. As fans eagerly await further news, it’s clear that both Johnson and Craig are essential to the series’ continuation.
For those who can’t get enough of the clever whodunnits, the upcoming release of Wake Up Dead Man promises to deliver the same engaging mystery and humor that audiences have come to love. Keep an eye out for updates on potential sequels as Johnson and Craig explore what’s next for Detective Blanc.
