Ride Along 3 in Early Development at Universal with Ice Cube and Kevin Hart in Talks to Return

Universal Pictures has begun early development on Ride Along 3, the third film in the action-comedy series that debuted in 2014. The project involves Ice Cube and Kevin Hart in talks to return as the starring duo, with director Tim Story and producer Will Packer also attached. A new screenwriter has been brought on board to advance the script.

The original Ride Along film, released in January 2014, featured Ice Cube as a tough narcotics detective and Kevin Hart as his fast-talking brother-in-law. It grossed over $288 million worldwide against a $25 million budget. The sequel, Ride Along 2, followed in 2016 and earned $140 million globally.

Development Progress Ride Along 3 has been in development for a decade since the release of the second film.

Variety reported that the project faced delays but is now moving forward with a new writer. Deadline confirmed the early-stage status and the involvement of key returning personnel. The new screenwriter's identity was not specified in the reports.

Ice Cube and Kevin Hart's participation remains in negotiation, with no contracts finalized as of the announcements. Tim Story, who directed both prior installments, is set to helm the third.

Franchise Background The Ride Along series combines buddy-cop elements with comedy, centering on the mismatched partnership between the characters played by Ice Cube and Hart.

The films have been produced under Universal Pictures, with Will Packer Productions handling production duties. No release date or filming schedule has been announced for the third entry. Discussions about a third film surfaced periodically over the years, but progress stalled until recently.

The franchise's success at the box office has positioned it as a viable property for continuation. All sources agree on the current early development phase without contradictions.