'Obsession' breakout star Michael Johnston in talks for 'The Mummy 4'

Michael Johnston could soon be taking the biggest step of his career, with the rising actor entering early talks to join The Mummy 4 alongside returning franchise stars Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz. While negotiations have not yet been finalised, multiple reports indicate Johnston is being considered for a role in Universal Pictures' long anticipated revival of the blockbuster adventure series.

Johnston has steadily built his profile in recent years, first gaining recognition through Teen Wolf before attracting wider attention with the horror film Obsession. The low budget thriller emerged as one of this year's surprise box office success stories, bringing the actor to a much larger audience and placing him on Hollywood's radar for bigger studio productions.

If a deal is completed, Johnston would join a cast already packed with familiar faces. Brendan Fraser is officially returning as adventurer Rick O'Connell, while Rachel Weisz will once again portray Egyptologist Evelyn O'Connell. Their reunion has generated significant excitement among fans because it marks Weisz's first appearance in the franchise since The Mummy Returns. She did not appear in The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor, making this reunion particularly notable.

John Hannah has also been confirmed to reprise his fan favourite role, adding another familiar face from the original films. Universal has largely kept plot details under wraps, although the studio has confirmed that the sequel will receive a wide theatrical release on October 15, 2027.

The new installment is being directed by Matt Bettinelli Olpin and Tyler Gillett, the filmmaking duo collectively known as Radio Silence. The pair previously earned praise for Ready or Not and its sequel, bringing a blend of horror, suspense and humour that many believe could suit the supernatural adventure franchise.

The screenplay has been written by David Coggeshall, whose previous credits include The Family Plan and Orphan: First Kill. Longtime franchise producer Sean Daniel is also returning, having overseen every major entry in The Mummy series since the 1999 original. Producers William Sherak, James Vanderbilt, Paul Neinstein and Clayton Townsend are also attached, while Fraser and Jason F Brown will serve as executive producers.

Since its debut in 1999, The Mummy franchise has become one of Universal's most successful action adventure properties. The original film and its 2001 sequel combined thrilling action, supernatural mythology and humour, helping establish Brendan Fraser as one of Hollywood's leading action stars. Across multiple films, including spin offs, the franchise has generated around $1.8bn at the global box office.

Johnston's possible casting reflects the production's effort to introduce fresh talent alongside returning franchise veterans. Although his role has not been disclosed and talks remain at an early stage, joining a globally recognised series would represent a major milestone in the actor's career.

The film is set to release in cinemas in October 2027.