‘Now You See Me 3’ release confirmed with new screenwriter; Lionsgate announces returning and new characters

After close to four years of uncertainty, fans of the magic heist thriller series finally got the good news: “Now You See Me 3” is now officially in the making. Lionsgate confirmed, however, that there are some major changes in the production along with the return of familiar faces and the introduction of new characters.

‘Now You See Me 3’ renewed with new screenwriter and cast members

Another interesting information in the renewal of “Now You See Me 3” is the composition of its production team. The confirmation of the third movie is attached to the announcement that its script will be penned by Oscar-nominated screenwriter Eric Warren Singer for his work on “American Hustle.”

Lionsgate Motion Picture Group president Nathan Kahane said, via Deadline, “[Singer] came to us with a great story that takes the mythology of Now You See Me and pushes The Four Horsemen to a whole new level with our key returning cast and new characters.” Kahane, however, did not specify the names of returning cast members.

Having the Four Horsemen back in “Now You See Me 3” means the key players will return, including Dylan (Mark Ruffalo), Atlas (Jesse Eisenberg), Merritt (Woody Harrelson), Jack (Dave Franco). It is also very likely for Thaddeus (Morgan Freeman), who was revealed to be a key member of the Eye, to come back the third time.

The fourth Horseman could be a little tricky, though, because some fans are still hoping to see Isla Fisher reprise her role as Henley in “Now You See Me 3.” But Lizzy Caplan’s Lula May proved to be a worthy addition in the 2016 sequel in Fisher’s absence. The announcement of having new characters also lines up with an earlier report that Lionsgate is looking to cast two actors for still-unknown roles.

‘Now You See Me 3’ release date

Fans may recall a report from late 2016 claiming that Lionsgate recruited writing duo Neil Widener and Gavin James to work on the movie’s script. Lionsgate did not provide an official statement at the time, unlike this time that the news about having Singer on board the franchise.

Considering Lionsgate is only discussing “Now You See Me 3’s” script, the movie could still be in the early phase of production. With that, it might take another long while before fans hear about a release date window. However, officially acknowledging Singer’s work on the franchise is significant and shows Lionsgate’s confidence that hiring him will finally lead to the overdue premiere of the third movie.