Universal Pictures is considering J.A. Bayona to helm the sequel to Jurassic World Rebirth. This potential appointment follows the departure of director Gareth Edwards, who reportedly left the project due to creative disagreements.
The Return of J.A. Bayona to the Jurassic Fold
Universal Pictures is reportedly eyeing J.A. Bayona as the primary candidate to direct the follow-up to Jurassic World Rebirth, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The search for a new director was triggered after Gareth Edwards, who directed the 2025 film Jurassic World Rebirth, exited the sequel over creative differences.
While Universal Pictures has confirmed that Gareth Edwards will not return for the next installment, the studio has not yet officially named a replacement. However, Borys Kit of The Hollywood Reporter notes that J.A. Bayona remains at the top of the studio's list to take over the production.
A $1.3 Billion Legacy from Fallen Kingdom
If appointed, J.A. Bayona would be returning to a franchise he previously steered with 2018's Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom. That film was a massive commercial success, grossing over $1.3 billion worldwide, though it met with a more divided critical reception, currently holding a 47% score on Rotten Tomatoes.
The move reflects a broader trend of major studios returning to proven hands when a project hits creative turbulence. J.A. Bayona's tenure on Fallen Kingdom was characterized by a darker visual style and a shift in location from Isla Nublar to the Lockwood estate, a creative pivot that demonstrated his ability to evolve the series' aesthetic.
David Koepp’s Script and the Return of Scarlett Johansson
Despite the directorial shake-up, the foundation for the sequel is already in place. David Koepp, the writer of the original Jurassic Park and Jurassic World Rebirth, has already completed the script for the upcoming film, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter.
The production is expected to maintain its core ensemble, with Scarlett Johansson, Jonathan Bailey, and Mahershala Ali slated to return to their roles . Furthermore, the project continues to be overseen by producers Steven Spielberg and Frank Marshall , both of whom previously collaborated with J.A. Bayona on the 2018 installment.
The Nature of Gareth Edwards' Creative Differences
While the script is finished and the cast is largely set, the specific reasons for Gareth Edwards' departure remain a mystery . Universal Pictures has not detaied the "creative differences" that led to the split, leaving it unclear whether the friction was related to the existing script by David Koepp or the intended direction of the story.
Additionally, it remains unverified whether J.A. Bayona has officially accepted an offer or if he is simply the studio's preferred choice. Universal Pictures has declined to comment on the reports, and a formal production start date or release window has yet to be established.
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