Over twenty years have passed since Friday After Next hit theaters, but finally, a new movie is on its way. Oddly enough, the actor responsible for giving life to Dede's loudmouth attitude broke the news.
Mike Epps, who's starred in two installments opposite Ice Cube, stopped by Power 106's Breakfast Club to dish about the new movie, wherein he revealed they're working on it. Epps didn't get into specifics, although the fact that he's on board is good enough for now.
The comedian/actor added an unfortunate piece of info to the news, revealing that he's not read the script. While that doesn't necessarily point to anything good or bad, being at the script phase means Last Friday is a way off.
Another point of contention is whether or not franchise staple Chris Tucker will make his long-overdue return. Tucker's Smokey only appeared once in the original 1995 film, but he made such an impact that he's been called upon for each installment since. Tucker, unfortunately, stepped away from the Friday franchise because the series promoted drug use and vulgar language. Mind you, he's a born-again Christian, so it's not surprising the content in subsequent movies offended Tucker's newfound sensibilities.
Odds are Tucker will opt out of reprising his role in Last Friday since the final chapter in the series has to call back to staples like weed-smoking and hoodrat adventures. Not to mention telling Felicia to go on her merry way. Of course, Tucker could have a change of heart if his character refrains from engaging in drug use or immoral behavior.
Characters Who Cannot Return
Potential returns notwithstanding, a few characters are unable to return. Tiny Lister Jr., best known for playing the franchise's antagonist, Deebo, passed away in 2020. That leaves a gaping hole in the roster.
Similarly, John Witherspoon is in the same boat. The comedian/actor who portrays Willie Jones passed away in 2019 from a heart attack. It happened not too long after Witherspoon suffered other medical issues. For instance, in late 2018, the Wayans Bros alum had to be helped offstage during a stand-up comedy appearance. Speculation surrounding that event claimed Witherspoon suffered a stroke, although nothing was ever confirmed.
The question is: how will Ice Cube write "pops" out of the script? Deebo is an easier problem to figure out since both Next Friday and Friday After Next established new antagonists. Willie, though, deserves closure. Perhaps dying offscreen will suffice in creating a scenario for every surviving cast member to reunite. Funerals are always a great way to reconnect, especially when tragedy leaves voids in loved ones.
Ice Cube's Last Friday still has no release date.