The Lethal Weapon franchise, a hallmark of American buddy cop action-comedy, was created by Shane Black and is celebrated for its explosive action scenes and sharp humor. The story revolves around the unlikely partnership between LAPD detectives Martin Riggs, a reckless and troubled ex-soldier, and Roger Murtaugh, a seasoned and cautious family man. The original four films, released between 1987 and 1998, were directed by Richard Donner and starred Mel Gibson as Riggs and Danny Glover as Murtaugh, whose on-screen chemistry helped cement the franchise’s legacy. While the first film leaned more into dark, gritty action, the later sequels incorporated increasing amounts of humor, enhancing the characters’ camaraderie and elevating the series’ entertainment value. From 2016 to 2019, the franchise was rebooted with a TV series, which introduced a new cast while maintaining the action-comedy balance that made Lethal Weapon a fan favorite. This evolution of tone from intense to light-hearted humor reflects the franchise’s adaptability over the years.

Plans for a fifth Lethal Weapon film have been circulating since 2007, but the project has remained in limbo for years. However, in September 2024, renewed hope emerged when director and former star Mel Gibson confirmed that production is finally moving forward. Gibson announced that filming is slated to begin in early 2025, with the possibility of a release later that year. This news has reignited excitement among long-time fans, eager to see the beloved duo of Martin Riggs and Roger Murtaugh return to the screen for another action-packed adventure. The anticipation surrounding this installment suggests that the franchise’s legacy of explosive action and sharp humor will continue to captivate audiences.