Ice Cube’s Long-Awaited Last Friday Takes Major Step Forward
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Post By
DJ Longers
- October 29, 2026
‘Neighborhood Chemistry’: Ice Cube’s Long-Awaited Last Friday Takes Major Step Forward as Lawrence Lamont Boards Project to Direct
LOS ANGELES — After more than two decades locked in development limbo, Ice Cube’s beloved cult comedy franchise is officially returning to screens, with New Line Cinema appointing breakout filmmaker Lawrence Lamont to direct Last Friday.
The project marks the fourth feature-length instalment in the iconic Friday series and the first entry since 2002’s Friday After Next.
Ice Cube wrote the screenplay and will return to star alongside long-time co-star Mike Epps, while also producing the feature under his CubeVision banner alongside Bob Teitel and Michael Gruber.
A Fresh Voice for South Los Angeles
Lamont’s appointment comes on the back of his critical and commercial success with the hit buddy comedy One of Them Days, starring Keke Palmer and SZA.
Produced for $14 million (£10.7 million), the film grossed over $51 million (£39 million) worldwide, earning widespread praise for capturing the vibrant, neighborhood-centric humor that echoes the original 1995 Friday.
The new film is set to tackle contemporary themes in South Central Los Angeles, centering on Craig Jones (Cube) and Day-Day (Epps) navigating the rapidly changing landscape of gentrification in their childhood neighbourhood.
"Lamont proved with 'One of Them Days' that he understands the exact rhythmic flow, localized authenticity, and comedic chemistry required for a great neighborhood comedy," an insider close to New Line noted. "Handing him the reins to 'Last Friday' bridges classic franchise nostalgia with modern comedic storytelling."
State Tax Credits and Production Logistics
The greenlight follows significant state-backed production support. California authorities awarded the production $11.4 million (£8.7 million) in tax incentives to ensure the franchise shoots entirely on location across Southern California.
According to state filing details, the production is planning a 40-day principal photography window featuring an ensemble cast of 43 actors and a 150-person crew.
The announcement completes a long journey for Ice Cube, who has publicly lobbied Warner Bros. Discovery for years to approve a fourth film following the deaths of original cast members John Witherspoon, Tommy "Tiny" Lister Jr., and Anthony Johnson.
Targeting a Spring 2027 Theatrical Launch
While discussions remain ongoing regarding potential surprise cameos from surviving original cast members, including Chris Tucker, whom fans continue to lobby for online, Ice Cube is reportedly eyeing an April 2027 theatrical window.
With pre-production underway in Los Angeles, further casting announcements regarding supporting roles are expected over the coming months as Lamont finalizes the ensemble.
