Wait, Is Deadpool 3 Getting Delayed Due To The Strikes?

Ryan Reynolds in Deadpool
(Image credit: 20th Century Fox)

The Marvel Cinematic Universe is always growing, thanks to new projects on the small and silver screens. One of the most highly anticipated upcoming Marvel movies is definitely Deadpool 3, which will feature the return of Hugh Jackman as Wolverine. While production started, it eventually was halted alongside countless other projects due to the SAG-AFTRA strikes. But is Deadpool 3 getting delayed 

Ever since Disney acquired 20th Century Fox and its properties, fans have been anxiously awaiting Wade Wilson’s entrance into the MCU. While Deadpool 3 was originally set to arrive in theaters in May of 2024, fans are worried that might no longer happen. Specifically because Disney recently updated its slate of upcoming movies (via The Direct), and Ryan Reynolds’ blockbuster is noticeably absent. Is this just an oversight, or are we going to have to wait even longer for the Merc with the Mouth to return to the big screen?

Disney recently had its earning call, where Bob Iger and other execs spoke frankly about the House of Mouse. A list of movies coming from the studio over the next year or so were also named, and Deadpool 3 wasn't mentioned. The list reportedly includes:

  • A Haunting in Venice - September 15, 2023
  • The Creator - September 29, 2023 
  • The Marvels - November 10, 2023 
  • Next Goal Wins - November 17, 2023
  • Wish- November 22, 2023
  • The Bikeriders - December 1, 2023
  • Magazine Dreams - December 8, 2023
  • Poor Things- December 8, 2023
  • All of Us Strangers - December 22, 2023
  • Elio - March 1, 2024
  • Snow White - March 22, 2024
  • Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes - May 24, 2024
  • Inside Out 2 - June 14, 2024

Considering Deadpool 3’s original release date, there are plenty of questions about why it wasn’t on this list. Although given just how long it takes to film and complete superhero movies, perhaps the studio has no choice but to push it back. After all, there’s no telling when a new agreement might be crafted that ends the current strikes.

This bit of news is sure to be disappointing to the hardcore Deadpool fans out there. After all, the first two movies were released in quick succession, in 2016 and 2018 respectively. So it’s already been a long wait for the threequel, even before this potential delay.

Still, anticipation for Deadpool 3 is at a fever pitch. This is largely because of Jackman playing Wolverine, complete with his yellow suit. The cast of Deadpool 3 includes characters new and old, as well as the surprising return of Jennifer Garner as Elektra. There are countless questions about what the movie might contain, but the studio has been keeping its cards close to the chest. Case in point: Deadpool creator Rob Liefeld has gotten in trouble with Disney over his set updates. 

There hasn’t been any official announcement regarding Deadpool 3, so we’ll have to wait for word from Ryan Reynolds and company. For now, the movie is expected to hit theaters on May 3rd, 2024. In the meantime, check out the 2023 movie release dates to plan your next movie experience. 

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Corey Chichizola
Movies Editor

Corey was born and raised in New Jersey. Graduated with degrees theater and literature from Ramapo College of New Jersey. After working in administrative theater for a year in New York, he started as the Weekend Editor at CinemaBlend. He's since been able to work himself up to reviews, phoners, and press junkets-- and is now able to appear on camera with some of his favorite actors... just not as he would have predicted as a kid. He's particularly proud of covering horror franchises like Scream and Halloween, as well as movie musicals like West Side Story. Favorite interviews include Steven Spielberg, Spike Lee, Jamie Lee Curtis, and more.