As the dust settles on Jurassic World Dominion, fans are gearing up for a fresh roar from the franchise with Jurassic World Rebirth. Set to release in 2025, this highly anticipated sequel promises a new chapter with Scarlett Johansson leading the charge. While it’s clear Jeff Goldblum won’t be reprising his role as the ever-iconic Dr. Ian Malcolm, the burning question remains: could we see other familiar faces from Jurassic Park or Jurassic World?
Who’s In and Who’s Out?
The new cast is star-studded, featuring Johansson, Jonathan Bailey (Bridgerton), and Mahershala Ali (Green Book), alongside director Gareth Edwards (Godzilla, Rogue One). However, per the film’s official casting, Jurassic World Rebirth will not feature Chris Pratt (Owen Grady), Bryce Dallas Howard (Claire Dearing), or even the legendary original trio of Sam Neill (Alan Grant), Laura Dern (Ellie Sattler), and Jeff Goldblum.
Now, Goldblum, who appeared in Jurassic Park, The Lost World: Jurassic Park, and Jurassic World Dominion, has officially passed the torch to one of the franchise’s newcomers. “The hope of the world resides [in Jonathan Bailey],” he told Variety, adding his signature charm: “It’s like no other!” But with this apparent closure, fans can’t help but speculate—are there other legacy characters who might make a surprise return?
Related: Jeff Goldblum Confirms Dr. Ian Malcolm’s Fate After ‘Jurassic World Dominion’
Could We See Lex and Tim Murphy in Jurassic World Rebirth?
Remember Lex and Tim, John Hammond’s whip-smart grandkids? Joseph Mazzello (Tim) and Ariana Richards (Lex) were standout stars of Jurassic Park, with Tim’s fascination for dinosaurs and Lex’s computer skills saving the day more than once.
The duo hasn’t been seen since The Lost World, but the Jurassic universe loves a call-back. As Jurassic World Rebirth explores a “new Jurassic era,” perhaps the grown-up Murphy siblings could be woven into the narrative as experts, activists, or even critics of the ongoing dino madness. It’s been long enough—maybe it’s time to check in on them!
Related: All 3 Upcoming Back-To-Back ‘Jurassic Park’ and ‘World’ Sequels Explained
Dr. Henry Wu: The Franchise’s Mad Scientist
If there’s one character with a knack for survival and plot twists, it’s Dr. Henry Wu. Portrayed by B.D. Wong, Wu was pivotal in both the original Jurassic Park and the Jurassic World trilogy as the genetic mastermind behind the dinosaurs. While his arc seemed to conclude in Jurassic World Dominion, Wu’s expertise and moral ambiguity could make him an ideal candidate to reappear, especially with Rebirth’s mysterious dino DNA plotline.
Could Dr. Wu be working behind the scenes on another “groundbreaking” experiment? Never underestimate the franchise’s favorite ethically questionable scientist.
Related: How ‘Jurassic World Rebirth’ Connects to 1993 Film Explained by Director
Could John Hammond’s Legacy Loom Large in Jurassic World Rebirth?
While Richard Attenborough’s portrayal of the visionary park founder John Hammond is irreplaceable, Hammond’s legacy remains central to the Jurassic story. With his estate’s vast resources and influence, it wouldn’t be surprising if Jurassic World Rebirth introduces a descendant or business associate who carries on his vision—or seeks to undo the damage caused by it.
This could even tie into the new character dynamics introduced in the film. Perhaps a connection to Hammond’s family will emerge as Johansson’s Zora Bennett and Bailey’s Dr. Henry Loomis explore the sinister secrets of the dino-inhabited island.
What About Other Jurassic Favorites?
From the snarky genius of Julianne Moore’s Sarah Harding to Vince Vaughn’s activist photographer Nick Van Owen (The Lost World: Jurassic Park), there’s a rich roster of characters the franchise could revisit. Could they make cameo appearances, or even play small but pivotal roles in this “new Jurassic era”?
The beauty of Jurassic is its ability to blend nostalgia with fresh perspectives. While Rebirth promises new heroes and villains, don’t be surprised if it sneaks in a familiar face—or two—for fans to cheer (or scream) about.
As much as fans will miss Jeff Goldblum’s iconic one-liners and undeniable swagger, Jurassic World Rebirth has the opportunity to expand its universe while honoring its roots. Whether it’s Tim and Lex stepping back into the spotlight, Dr. Wu orchestrating chaos behind the scenes, or a surprise cameo from a legacy character, the franchise has no shortage of ways to delight its audience.
Jurassic World Rebirth hits theaters worldwide on July 2, 2025. Keep those night-vision binoculars handy—this might be the most thrilling adventure yet!
The film stars Scarlett Johansson (Avengers: Endgame), Jonathan Bailey (Bridgerton), Manuel Garcia-Rulfo (The Lincoln Lawyer), Rupert Friend (Obi-Wan Kenobi), Mahershala Ali (The Green Book), Luna Blaise (Manifest), David Iacono (Dead Boy Detectives), Audrina Miranda (Lopez vs Lopez), Philippine Velge (Station Eleven), Bechir Sylvain (BMF), and Ed Skrein (Deadpool).
Are you holding out hope for a legacy return, or are you ready to embrace the new cast? Let us know in the comments!