In March last year, we brought you the news that Lionsgate was said to be “fast-tracking” a new entry in the Leprechaun franchise.
At the time, we reported that a script existed, penned by Mike Van Waes, and up-and-coming filmmaker Felipe Vargas was attached to direct.
However, despite the filmmaker’s pride and excitement to be involved with an established franchise… Everything has gone silent.
Currently, we have no definitive word that a ninth Leprechaun instalment is still in the works. Given the panicked state Lionsgate is currently in, we understand why a Leprechaun reboot might be a low priority.
However, that hasn’t stopped fans speculating on the status of the franchise. To that end, original Leprechaun director Mark Jones has taken to Instagram to discuss the future of the series, and if he’d ever return to the franchise.
In a video, addressing fan questions, Jones said the following:
“I guess there have been a lot of discussions about me directing Leprechaun 9. I actually have an incredible concept.”
However, Jones revealed his main caveat to return, saying:
“I’ll tell you right now, I wouldn’t want to do it without Warwick Davis, but there have been discussions. Nothing is locked in yet… Obviously Warwick knows the character, it’s his character”
Jones further elaborated on his concept with:
“I know I want to do it, I know I have a way to do it. But you’ve got to keep the comedy, the horror, and the tone of the first Leprechaun, which is what made people love the movie… There is a very interesting concept, that I can’t say very much about.”
So, has Lionsgate nixed the Vargas and Van Waes project in favour of a legacy sequel with Jones? It seems that way.
What’s more, could we see the legendary Warwick Davis return to the role for the first time in over twenty years? Jones’ words sound promising, so we’ll keep an eye on this one and see if any further developments emerge.
