Uh oh! We've just learned of some not-so-exciting news about the Beetlejuice franchise. Fans hoping for more Netherworld mischief with certain people involved may want to temper their excitement. Tim Burton and Jenna Ortega just delivered a less-than-thrilling update on a potential Beetlejuice 3.
Burton directed the first Beetlejuice film and its smash-hit sequel, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice. Ortega took on the role of Astrid Deetz in the second movie. In a new interview with The Hollywood Reporter, both sat down to talk about the upcoming second season of Wednesday as well as their thoughts on another Beetlejuice sequel.
When told about Warner Bros Pictures co-chairman/CEO Mike De Luca's recent comment that development on Beetlejuice 3 was starting “imminently,” Burton responded with surprise and a touch of humor. He told THR, "Really? Nobody told me. Maybe I’ve been replaced.” Ortega joined in with a playful jab, joking that maybe she’s been replaced too and imagining absurd plot twists like her character going to heaven instead of the Netherworld.
"Maybe I’ve been, too. Maybe [her character] Astrid dies and goes to heaven instead [of the films’ Netherworld]. They should just take Baby Beetlejuice on tour and send him to Hawaii." - Jenna Ortega
While the tone seemed lighthearted, the underlying message was clear. Both are unsure about the direction or even the reality of a third film moving forward. Given that no one has reached out to them about a Beetlejuice 3, it does make you wonder if we'll actually see them return or if the studio might move forward without the original creative team and stars. That's truly concerning!
Burton then goes to reflect on how long it took to get the second movie made, which was 35 years. He admitted that by the time a third might arrive, he’d be well into his 100s. He also spoke fondly of the improvisational approach they used on the second film and the joy of working with returning cast members, but confessed it’s hard to envision how to recreate the magic for another installment. He loves the characters but is unsure if another sequel would live up to the same spirit or quality.
"It took 35 years to make the second one, so by that time I’ll be 105. I know those odds are not good. I really, really enjoyed making this one, and [Warner Bros.] didn’t even really want to do it. We did it the same way I did the first one, with the actors doing improv. It was beautiful to see some of the old cast and have Jenna. But it’s like trying to re-create the Wednesday dance scene. I love the characters, but I don’t necessarily see it." - Tim Burton
However, Burton was clear about his feelings when it comes to someone else taking over directing duties for a third movie. He shared that he feels deeply protective of the franchise and would be disappointed if Beetlejuice 3 were to move forward without his involvement.
In fact, he recalled feeling upset when the Beetlejuice Broadway musical was made without his creative input, underscoring just how personally connected he is to the material. Ortega echoed this sentiment, saying she wouldn’t want to be part of a third movie that lacked Burton’s direction, emphasizing that the franchise’s magic is intrinsically tied to him.
"Oh, I would never. I also think anybody would be really wrong to get behind that project. Without him involved, what is it? It is what it is because of Tim. There’s no other film you can compare Beetlejuice to. So why would you do that? That would be a tad disrespectful." - Jenna Ortega
Given the massive success of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, a third movie is more than likely to happen. And honestly, we can't see Warner Bros. moving forward with the project without ensuring that Burton is involved in some capacity. Same goes for Ortega. She might have just been introduced in the second film, but her character quickly became a fan favorite. The studio would be doing itself a disservice by leaving her out of a potential third installment.
We’ll keep you updated on all things Beetlejuice 3, so make sure to stay tuned to FlickSided!
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