J.A. Bayona Emerges as Top Contender for Next Jurassic World Film
October 3, 2026
The next chapter of the Jurassic World franchise could bring back a familiar filmmaker. Spanish director J.A. Bayona is reportedly at the top of Universal Pictures' list to direct the next movie following Jurassic World Rebirth.
Bayona previously directed Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, making him a familiar name within the dinosaur franchise. However, reports stress that his involvement in the new project has not been officially confirmed, and it is not clear that formal talks with Universal have begun.
Gareth Edwards Leaves the Project
The director search opened after Gareth Edwards, who directed Jurassic World Rebirth, stepped away from the follow-up in August 2026.
Edwards' departure was attributed to creative differences. Universal previously said it had an "incredible experience" working with Edwards on Rebirth.
With the director search now underway, Bayona has emerged as one of the leading possibilities.
Bayona Has Previous Jurassic Experience
Bayona directed Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom, which was released in 2018. The film starred Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard alongside returning franchise actors.
His previous experience with the series could be an important factor as Universal searches for a filmmaker to guide the next installment.
David Koepp Is Writing the Follow-Up
The next Jurassic World movie already has a screenplay from David Koepp, who also played a major writing role in the original Jurassic Park franchise.
Reports say Scarlett Johansson, Mahershala Ali and Jonathan Bailey are expected to return following their appearances in Jurassic World Rebirth.
What We Know About the New Movie
The project is still in development, so several details remain unconfirmed. Reports indicate that Universal is continuing its search for a director after Edwards' exit.
Some reports have suggested the next film could begin production in 2027, with a potential 2028 release, but those details have not been fully confirmed by the studio.
Bayona Could Return to the Franchise
If Bayona ultimately takes the job, it would mark his second time directing a Jurassic World movie.
For now, however, fans will have to wait for an official announcement from Universal before his involvement can be considered confirmed. The studio has not officially announced Bayona as the new director.
Conclusion: J.A. Bayona has emerged as a leading candidate to direct the next Jurassic World film, but the filmmaker's appointment remains unconfirmed. With Gareth Edwards no longer attached and David Koepp working on the script, Universal's next major decision will be choosing the director who will lead the franchise into its next chapter.