Paramount Axes Ferris Bueller Spin-Off After Skydance Merger
A major Hollywood studio is cleaning house after a massive corporate merger, shelving several highly anticipated films. A beloved 80s classic spin-off is among the first casualties, but the projects getting a green light in its place are raising even more eyebrows across the industry.
A planned follow-up to the classic 1986 comedy Ferris Bueller’s Day Off has been officially shelved by Paramount. The spin-off, which had been given the go-ahead earlier in 2024, became a casualty of the studio's recent merger with Skydance Media. This move signals a significant shift in creative direction under the new leadership of David Ellison, with several projects being re-evaluated.
A Slate of High-Profile Cancellations
The Ferris Bueller project, which carried the working title Sam and Victor’s Day Off, was set to be directed by David Katzenberg. The film’s plot would have centered on the two valets who famously took the Ferrari belonging to Cameron Frye’s father for a joyride in the original movie. However, according to the latest reports, this nostalgic trip is no longer happening under the studio's new management.
But the cuts didn't stop there. Another film now scrapped by the Ellison regime is Winter Games, a project that had Miles Teller attached to star. Furthermore, a highly anticipated sci-fi blockbuster about Area 51 has also been axed. That film was shaping up to be a major collaboration, with Jurassic World filmmaker Colin Trevorrow directing and Ryan Reynolds on board to produce.
A Controversial Revival Gets the Green Light
While some projects are being shut down, others are unexpectedly moving forward. In a surprising turn, Paramount has given the green light to Rush Hour 4. The decision to revive the action-comedy franchise reportedly came after alleged pressure from former President Donald Trump, who signed off on the merger between Paramount and Skydance.
The revival is stirring up significant controversy, largely due to the studio's choice of director. Brett Ratner, who directed the original trilogy, is reportedly set to return to the helm. This decision has raised eyebrows throughout the industry, as Ratner has been largely inactive in Hollywood for many years following numerous allegations of sexual assault.
Director's Troubled Past Sparks Concern
Ratner's return to a major studio production marks a significant moment, given the serious accusations that have shadowed his career for years. His last several years have been spent away from the mainstream Hollywood spotlight, making his comeback a talking point.
Interestingly, Ratner’s other current endeavor is a documentary focused on Melania Trump, produced for Amazon MGM Studios. That film is reportedly scheduled for a theatrical release on January 30th, 2026, placing the director back in the public eye with two high-profile projects in development.