The announcement that Ice Cube is set to write, star in, and direct a new Friday movie—Last Friday—marks not just another sequel but a cultural event. For fans of the beloved comedy franchise, which defined a generation in the 1990s and 2000s, the news is a long-awaited gift. And it’s not just because Friday has been absent from the silver screen for over 20 years, but because it carries with it the promise of nostalgia, hilarity, and a story that might finally wrap up the lives of Craig and Smokey once and for all.
For many, Friday (1995) was the first introduction to Ice Cube as more than a rapper—it was his big-screen breakthrough, where he proved his natural talent for comedy. With an ensemble cast led by Cube and his comedic counterpart, Chris Tucker, the film became an instant classic. Over the years, the franchise expanded with Next Friday (2000) and Friday After Next (2002), continuing the characters’ misadventures while reflecting the changing social landscape of the time. But fans have been yearning for more.
Now, Last Friday is poised to become the fourth and final chapter in a series that’s been an indelible part of comedy history. It’s been confirmed that Warner Bros. and New Line Cinema have reached a deal with Ice Cube to bring this project to life. In an era of reboots and sequels, Last Friday promises not only to fulfill a personal goal for Cube but to give audiences the opportunity to revisit the characters who defined suburban comedy in the late 20th century. That is, with the exception of beloved characters such as, Pops (John Witherspoon), Deebo (Tommy “Tiny” Lister), Pastor Clever (Bernie Mac), and Ezal (Anthony Johnson), all who passed away.
The film’s return could not come at a better time, as the world of comedy has shifted and evolved, but the essence of what made Friday special remains untouched. Ice Cube’s distinct voice and comedic style have not lost any of their power—he’s still the sharp, humorous, and charismatic figure who brought Craig Jones to life over two decades ago. What’s more, his partnership with New Line Cinema and Warner Bros.—led by Michael De Luca and Pamela Abdy—marks a return to the roots of the franchise. De Luca, who was at the helm of New Line during the production of the first three films, knows exactly what made the Friday franchise resonate with fans.
“It’s a reunion of sorts,” Cube shared in a recent interview. “Mike De Luca was there when we first did the original Friday and he was there for the other films. Now, with his leadership at Warner, it feels like the right moment to make Last Friday happen.”
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Indeed, this project represents not just the culmination of a series but the revival of a family. Cube’s connection to his fans, his unwavering commitment to the franchise, and the collaborative energy from the studio behind the project suggests that Last Friday will stay true to the spirit of the original films. It won’t be just another sequel cashing in on nostalgia—it will be a celebration of the comedy, characters, and community that made the Friday films so beloved.
The anticipation is real: who isn’t excited at the thought of seeing Cube reprise his role as Craig? The speculation is endless, too. Will Last Friday bring closure to Craig’s story? Will Smokey, played by Chris Tucker, finally return for a triumphant return? These questions linger as the fanbase eagerly awaits more details.
But beyond the laughs, Friday has always had a deeper cultural relevance. It was a film that captured the humor, trials, and triumphs of life in the ‘hood, blending sharp wit with poignant moments. For those who grew up watching Friday, the thought of Last Friday is more than just a trip down memory lane. It’s a chance to celebrate how far the film franchise has come, how it’s influenced pop culture, and how its characters will forever remain iconic in the hearts of fans.
In a time when many of our favorite franchises are being rebooted, recast, and repackaged for new generations, Ice Cube’s decision to close the door on Craig and Smokey’s story feels like the ultimate gift for fans—an authentic continuation of a world that shaped their comedic sensibilities and offered up timeless moments that still bring laughter today.
It’s been a long time coming, but hopefully the wait will surely be worth it.
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