The Latest on the Bad Boys Franchise: What’s Next for Mike & Marcus?

Caitlyn Pauley

Will Smith

The Bad Boys franchise is riding high again, thanks to the explosive success of Bad Boys: Ride or Die—and fans are already asking what’s next for the iconic duo. With over $400 million in global box office returns and renewed fan interest, the series is far from slowing down. Here’s a look at what’s new and what might be around the corner.


Bad Boys: Ride or Die (2024) – A Box Office Revival

Released on June 7, 2024, Bad Boys: Ride or Die became one of the biggest action-comedy hits of the year, pulling in over $400 million worldwide on a $100 million budget. It marked a strong return for Will Smith and Martin Lawrence, who once again suited up as Miami detectives Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett.

Directed by Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah—the same duo behind Bad Boys for Life—the fourth installment leaned into nostalgia while dialing up the action and emotional stakes. It also marked a key moment in Will Smith’s return to the spotlight following a period of personal controversy.

Critics gave the film mixed reviews, but fans largely praised its humor, slick action sequences, and the ever-reliable chemistry between its leads. Some reviews noted the movie felt like a “greatest hits” tour, but it was undeniably fun and crowd-pleasing, bringing in new audiences while rewarding longtime fans.


What’s Next: Bad Boys 5 in the Works?

While no official greenlight has been announced yet, Bad Boys 5 is definitely in the conversation—and it’s gaining momentum. In interviews, both Will Smith and Martin Lawrence have expressed interest in returning if the story and action are meaningful enough. According to Lawrence, the next chapter would have to “respect the legacy and raise the stakes.”

Producer Jerry Bruckheimer, the man behind the entire franchise, confirmed in a June 2024 interview that early development discussions are happening, and a fifth installment depends on continuing fan enthusiasm and box office performance.

“We’re just now talking about it. If people want more, we’ll deliver,” said Bruckheimer. “We’ve got the team. It’s about finding the right reason to go again.”


Taking the Franchise Global?

The directing duo El Arbi and Fallah have hinted that future films could take the action beyond Miami, potentially going international with a more expansive story and global threat. That idea reflects the way other action franchises (like Fast & Furious) have scaled their scope over time to great success.

There’s also a sense that a fifth film might bring in new characters or possibly pass the baton, setting up the franchise for a new generation while keeping Mike and Marcus in prominent roles.


Rumors, Teasers & Release Buzz

While nothing is officially confirmed, fan speculation has been fueled by:

  • A rumored teaser trailer for Bad Boys 5 possibly dropping in June 2025, though that date remains unverified.
  • Comments from Martin Lawrence in April 2025 suggesting the team is “close to locking something down.”
  • Production talk around an international location shoot, which would be a first for the franchise.

There’s also the streaming factor—given Sony’s partnership with Netflix and Prime Video for past releases, any new installment could follow a hybrid theatrical and digital rollout strategy to boost reach and revenue.


TL;DR

  • Bad Boys: Ride or Die hit theaters in June 2024 and grossed over $400 million worldwide.
  • Will Smith, Martin Lawrence, and producer Jerry Bruckheimer are open to making a fifth film, though it hasn’t been officially greenlit.
  • Rumors point to an international storyline, a teaser in mid‑2025, and possible expansion of the franchise’s universe.
  • No release date yet—but momentum is clearly building.

Stay tuned—because Mike and Marcus might not be done yelling “We ride together, we die together” just yet.

Bad Boys 4

Action fans have been eagerly waiting for the next installment in the Bad Boys franchise. The fourth movie in this popular series, “Bad Boys: Ride or Die,” hit theaters on June 7, 2024, bringing back the dynamic duo of Will Smith and Martin Lawrence. The film was released exclusively in movie theaters in the United States on June 7, 2024, with some international markets like the United Arab Emirates seeing premieres as early as May 22.

The movie continues the legacy of the Bad Boys franchise with its signature mix of action and comedy. Filming took place in various locations, including Stone Mountain, Georgia. In some countries, the film was released under different titles, such as “Bad Boys 4: Ride or Die” in Azerbaijan and “Pis oğlanlar 4” in Bangladesh.

For those who missed it in theaters or want to watch it again, many are wondering about its streaming release. While the movie premiered in theaters in June, streaming information is still developing as the film makes its way through the traditional theatrical window before hitting streaming platforms.

The latest installment in the Bad Boys franchise, titled Bad Boys: Ride or Die, was released in theaters on June 7, 2024.

As for where to watch it, “Bad Boys: Ride or Die” is available to stream on Netflix in the United States as of October 8, 2024.

You can also rent or purchase the movie digitally on various platforms like:

  • Prime Video
  • Apple TV
  • Microsoft Store
  • Google Play Movies & TV
  • Fandango at Home (Vudu)
  • Spectrum On Demand
  • Max (HBO)

Key Takeaways

  • Bad Boys: Ride or Die was released in U.S. theaters on June 7, 2024, starring Will Smith and Martin Lawrence.
  • The film had earlier premieres in some international markets, including a May 22 premiere in Dubai.
  • Streaming release dates have not yet been confirmed, as the movie continues its theatrical run.

Bad Boys 4 Release Date and Essential Information

The fourth installment in the popular Bad Boys franchise, titled “Bad Boys: Ride or Die,” has been confirmed for a summer 2024 release. The film reunites the iconic duo of Will Smith and Martin Lawrence as they return to the streets of Miami for another action-packed adventure.

Release Date Announcement

“Bad Boys: Ride or Die” is set to hit theaters on June 7, 2024, in the United States. Sony Pictures officially announced the release date earlier than many fans expected, creating significant buzz among moviegoers.

The film will have its premiere in Dubai on May 22, 2024, ahead of its worldwide rollout. Different regions will have slightly different release dates, with the film being known under various titles internationally, such as “Bad Boys Hasta La Muerte” in some Spanish-speaking countries and “Pis oğlanlar 4” in Azerbaijan.

The summer release date positions the film as a major blockbuster contender during the competitive summer movie season.

Connection to the Bad Boys Franchise

“Bad Boys: Ride or Die” continues the legacy of the action-comedy franchise that began in 1995 with the original “Bad Boys” film. This fourth installment follows the successful “Bad Boys for Life” (2020), which revitalized the series after a 17-year gap since “Bad Boys II” (2003).

The franchise has been known for its high-octane action sequences, comedic elements, and the chemistry between its two leads. Each film centers on Miami detectives Mike Lowrey (Smith) and Marcus Burnett (Lawrence) as they tackle dangerous criminal organizations.

Directors Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah, who helmed the third film, return to direct “Ride or Die,” maintaining continuity in the series’ style and tone. The new film reportedly features the duo “on the run,” suggesting a departure from their official police roles.

The Return of Will Smith and Martin Lawrence

The heart of the Bad Boys franchise has always been the dynamic between Will Smith and Martin Lawrence, who reprise their roles as Detectives Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett. Their on-screen chemistry has been a defining element of the series since its inception.

Will Smith announced his return to the franchise with an enthusiastic social media post, generating excitement among fans. This marks one of Smith’s major returns to a blockbuster franchise following recent career challenges.

Filming took place in various locations, including Stone Mountain, Georgia, where scenes were shot on Admiral Raphael Semmes Drive. The production brings back the signature blend of action and comedy that made the previous films successful.

The trailer showcases Smith and Lawrence returning to their iconic roles with the familiar mix of explosive action sequences and humorous banter that fans have come to expect from the Bad Boys series.

Cast, Crew, and Production Insights

“Bad Boys: Ride or Die” brings together familiar faces and new talent both in front of and behind the camera, creating the fourth installment in this action-comedy franchise.

Leading Actors and New Additions

Will Smith and Martin Lawrence return as the iconic duo Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett, continuing their partnership that began in 1995 with the original “Bad Boys” film. Their chemistry remains central to the franchise’s success.

Vanessa Hudgens reprises her role from “Bad Boys for Life,” providing continuity between the films. Alexander Ludwig also returns, building on his character introduced in the previous movie.

New cast member Eric Dane joins the lineup, bringing fresh energy to the ensemble. The mix of returning actors and new additions helps balance nostalgia with fresh storylines.

The full cast includes 65 performers according to production notes, though many play supporting roles alongside the main characters.

Directors and Production Team

Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah direct “Bad Boys: Ride or Die,” returning after their successful work on “Bad Boys for Life.” The directing duo takes over from Michael Bay, who directed the first two films in the franchise.

The production team includes 19 producers working to bring this action blockbuster to audiences. This collaborative effort ensures the film maintains the franchise’s signature style while adding new elements.

The film’s music, cinematography, and editing were handled by specialized professionals, with two editors credited for crafting the final cut. This technical expertise helps deliver the high-energy action sequences fans expect.

The writing team developed a script that balances comedy, action, and character development for the fourth entry in this long-running series.

Filming Locations and Set Design

“Bad Boys: Ride or Die” began filming in April 2023, with production primarily taking place in Miami, the franchise’s signature location. The city’s vibrant atmosphere and distinctive architecture provide a familiar backdrop for fans.

The Miami Police Department setting returns as a key location, maintaining continuity with previous films. Set designers worked to update familiar spaces while preserving their recognizable elements.

Action sequences required elaborate set designs and location scouting to create the high-octane environments the series is known for. Production values remain high, with detailed attention to creating visually dynamic spaces.

The film combines practical locations with purpose-built sets to create the world of “Bad Boys,” balancing authenticity with the needs of complex action choreography.

Frequently Asked Questions

The highly anticipated fourth installment of the Bad Boys franchise answers fans’ most pressing questions. This action-packed sequel continues the story of detectives Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett.

When is the expected release date for the next installment of the Bad Boys franchise?

Bad Boys: Ride or Die is scheduled for release on June 7, 2024, in the United States. The film already had its premiere at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai on May 22, 2024.

Sony Pictures Releasing moved the release date to position the film strategically in the summer blockbuster season. The early June release date places it in a prime spot for action movie audiences.

Have any trailers been released for the upcoming Bad Boys film?

Yes, trailers for Bad Boys: Ride or Die have been released. Fans can find the official trailers on Sony Pictures’ YouTube channel and social media platforms.

The trailers showcase the return of Will Smith and Martin Lawrence as the iconic detective duo. The preview footage highlights the film’s signature mix of action and comedy.

Where can viewers find the latest information on the Bad Boys sequel?

Viewers can find the latest information on the Bad Boys sequel through official movie websites and social media channels. Sony Pictures regularly updates their platforms with news about the film.

Movie information sites like IMDb and Fandango also provide current details about the film. These sites include information about the cast, running time, and showtimes when available.

Will the fourth Bad Boys film be available for home viewing upon release?

The fourth Bad Boys film will first have an exclusive theatrical release on June 7, 2024. Like most major studio releases, it will likely follow the standard distribution window before becoming available for home viewing.

Digital purchase and rental options typically become available 45-75 days after theatrical release. Streaming platform availability will be announced closer to the home release date.

Are there plans for a fifth Bad Boys movie following the fourth?

Sony Pictures has not officially announced plans for a fifth Bad Boys movie. Future installments will likely depend on the box office performance of Bad Boys: Ride or Die.

The continued enthusiasm of the lead actors will also influence sequel decisions. Both Will Smith and Martin Lawrence have expressed fondness for their characters throughout the years.

How does the new Bad Boys film fit within the overall timeline of the series?

Bad Boys: Ride or Die continues the story directly from where Bad Boys for Life (2020) concluded. The fourth installment maintains the chronological sequence of the franchise that began in 1995.

The film follows detectives Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett as they face new challenges. Their partnership continues to evolve after nearly three decades of on-screen history.