James Cameron’s Terminator reshaped the realm of sci-fi when it hit the theatres back in 1984, simultaneously launching Arnold Schwarzenegger to stardom. And while the sequel to the sci-fi action would surpass the predecessor and go on to become one of the greatest films to come out from this genre, the franchise hasn’t picked up steam since then.
And while it seemed 2019’s Terminator: Dark Fate might’ve put the final nail in its coffin, the possibility of a seventh entry in the franchise hasn’t been shot by the Avatar director.
James Cameron Started Working on Terminator 7’s Script Earlier This Year
Although it’s reasonable to assume that a sequel to Dark Fate isn’t coming to fruition anytime soon, there is still a glimpse of hope remaining for the franchise’s revival following Cameron’s statements. Speaking at the Dell Tech World conference (via @rcmercado) back in May, James Cameron revealed that he started working on a script for Terminator 7 earlier this year. However, the process came to a pause following the state of AI in the real world, as the acclaimed filmmaker explained he’ll wait to see how the AI evolves before proceeding any further.
But following the IP’s complicated rights history, followed by James Cameron’s commitment to Avatar, it’s hard to see the new Terminator getting off the pre-production state anytime soon.
The Terminator Franchise Is Long From Over per Arnold Schwarzenegger
Even though there is still hope for a new entry in the iconic franchise, it’s safe to assume that Arnold Schwarzenegger won’t be reprising the role of T-800 if the project ever gets off the ground. But while Schwarzenegger stated that he is done with the franchise despite his fondness for the IP, he thinks there is still some gas left in its tank and wants to see the IP taking on a new route. He told THR,
“The franchise is not done. I’m done. I got the message loud and clear that the world wants to move on with a different theme when it comes to The Terminator. Someone has to come up with a great idea. The Terminator was largely responsible for my success, so I always would look at it very fondly. The first three movies were great. Number four [Salvation] I was not in because I was governor. Then five [Genisys] and six [Dark Fate] didn’t close the deal as far as I’m concerned.”
While fans will hope James Cameron can eventually get the project running, with Avatar 3 arriving next year, it’s going to be a long wait before Terminator rises again.
