Dwayne Johnson returns to big-budget films with Jumanji 3

Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson has confirmed that filming for Jumanji 3 will begin this November. Speaking with Variety, Johnson revealed he’ll be reuniting with Kevin Hart for the third installment in the hit franchise, which is currently slated for release on December 11, 2026.

According to Deadline, returning cast members Jack Black, Karen Gillan, and director Jake Kasdan are also expected to join the project, continuing the successful formula that began with Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017) and its sequel, Jumanji: The Next Level (2019).

In the series, Johnson plays Dr. Xander “Smolder” Bravestone, a fearless and physically flawless adventurer—a role that plays off Johnson’s own larger-than-life persona. The Jumanji reboot films have been major box office successes, blending action, comedy, and nostalgic charm.

The update on Jumanji 3 comes shortly after Johnson expressed a desire to step away from being typecast as a blockbuster-only actor. His upcoming role in The Smashing Machine, where he portrays troubled MMA fighter Mark Kerr, is already generating awards buzz and marks a significant shift toward more dramatic storytelling for the actor.

Johnson first entered Hollywood as the Scorpion King in The Mummy Returns (2001), and since then, he’s built a career filled with high-profile roles, including Luke Hobbs in the Fast & Furious series and Black Adam in the now-shelved DC Extended Universe. He also famously voiced Maui in Moana, and will reprise the role in Disney’s live-action adaptation.

With Jumanji 3 now officially moving forward, fans can look forward to another round of jungle-fueled chaos with the beloved cast.