The long-awaited fourth installment of the Friday franchise is officially moving forward, with Ice Cube confirming that the project is in active development at New Line Cinema and Warner Bros. Entertainment. After years stuck in development hell, the deal has been finalized and a writers’ room is now underway, though no official release date has been set and a 2026 premiere remains unconfirmed by the studio.

Ice Cube is writing alongside Aaron McGruder, creator of The Boondocks, and DJ Pooh, with Mike Epps expected to return as Day-Day Jones. When it comes to Chris Tucker reprising his iconic role as Smokey, the situation remains unresolved. Tucker has previously been reluctant to return, citing his desire not to glamorize drug use through the character, though he stated in a March 2024 interview that he would consider it if the project felt right. Ice Cube has indicated that discussions with Tucker are ongoing, and Mike Epps has publicly appealed for his return, but as of now, no actors are officially signed to the project. The intention is to bring back as many original cast members as possible while also introducing new comedic talent, and the team is taking time to ensure the script lives up to the franchise’s legacy before moving into production.