After the release of Beetlejuice in 2024, fans are buzzing about the possibility of a third installment—but director Tim Burton is setting the record straight.
In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, legendary filmmaker Tim Burton responded with surprise to reports claiming that a third Beetlejuice film is already in the works. The 66-year-old director, who helmed the original 1988 cult classic and its long-awaited 2024 sequel, said he hadn’t heard anything about such plans.
“Really? Nobody told me. Maybe I’ve been replaced,” Burton said with a laugh, dismissing the circulating rumors.
Despite the success of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, which reunited stars Michael Keaton and Winona Ryder, and introduced Jenna Ortega and Monica Bellucci to the quirky horror universe, Burton appears hesitant about continuing the franchise further.
“It took me 35 years to make the second film,” he noted. “Keeping that timeline in mind, I think it’ll be when I’m 105 before the third one happens.”
Burton also revealed that the process of making the sequel mirrored the spirit of the original—filled with improvisation and creative freedom.
“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,” he said. “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 [continuing].”
While Burton left the door slightly ajar for future ideas, his comments make it clear that a third Beetlejuice film isn’t in development—at least not with his involvement, as of now.
Fans of the franchise will have to be content, for the moment, with the eccentric charm of Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, which brought together old favorites and fresh faces in a highly praised return to the bizarre world of the afterlife.
