The highly anticipated fourth installment of the beloved comedy franchise, 'Last Friday', is finally coming to the big screen in 2025, thanks to Ice Cube's recent announcement. This news has fans buzzing with excitement, especially as it confirms the return of the iconic main cast. Ice Cube, the veteran actor and producer, is not only reprising his role as Craig Jones but also taking on the challenge of penning the screenplay. This marks a significant step forward for the franchise, as the previous installments have been stuck in development hell for several years.
Mike Epps, who played Day-Day Jones in the 'Next Friday' and 'Friday After Next' films, has also confirmed his involvement. The dynamic duo of Cube and Epps has already collaborated in the past, appearing together in 'All About the Benjamins' and 'Janky Promoters'. Their chemistry on and off-screen is undeniable, and their return is a major win for the franchise.
One of the most exciting developments is the potential return of Chris Tucker as Smokey. Tucker's performance in the first 'Last Friday' was a breakthrough role, launching his career into the spotlight. While his deal is not yet finalized, Epps has assured fans that Tucker is keen to return, which would be a dream come true for many.
The list of confirmed cast members also includes Don Curry and Clifton Powell, who are expected to reprise their roles as Uncle Elroy and Pinky, respectively. These characters have been integral to the franchise's success, and their return is a no-brainer. Additionally, the potential return of Nia Long and Regina King as key characters from the first installment is a thrilling prospect. Long played the love interest of Smokey, and King portrayed Day-Day's younger sister, adding depth to the story.
However, the franchise has faced some tragic losses. John Witherspoon, who played the fan-favorite role of Willie Jones, passed away in 2019, leaving a void that cannot be easily filled. Similarly, Tiny Lister, the main villain Deebo, also passed away, further diminishing the original cast. The loss of supporting cast members like A.J. Johnson, Bernie Mac, and Justin Pierce has also left a lasting impact on the franchise's legacy.
Despite these setbacks, the upcoming 'Last Friday' installment promises to be a celebration of the original cast and their contributions. With Ice Cube and Mike Epps leading the charge, and the potential return of Chris Tucker, the film is poised to capture the essence of the franchise. The addition of Don Curry and Clifton Powell further strengthens the cast, ensuring that the humor and heart of the original films are preserved. As the production begins later this year, fans can expect more exciting casting announcements, keeping the excitement alive until the release in 2025.
