Director Teases Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Return in ‘Predator: Badlands’
At the recent San Diego Comic-Con, fans of the *Predator* franchise received thrilling updates as director Dan Trachtenberg provided insights into the upcoming film *Predator: Badlands*. He revealed an extended ending for the animated anthology movie and hinted at the potential return of iconic character, Alan “Dutch” Schaefer, portrayed by Arnold Schwarzenegger. This announcement has sparked considerable excitement among the franchise’s followers.
During his presentation, Trachtenberg discussed a new epilogue for the movie, which had been added to platforms such as Hulu and Disney+. In this updated conclusion, the audience sees Amber Midthunder‘s character, Naru, captured by the alien hunters after her victory over one of them. As the scene unfolds, the camera pans to reveal both Danny Glover‘s character, Lt. Mike Harrigan, and Schwarzenegger’s Dutch, also held captive, presumably preparing for a gladiatorial contest. This development opens exciting avenues for future storytelling, although it appears to contradict elements from previous narratives, such as *Predator: Hunting Grounds*.
Trachtenberg confirmed that discussions with Schwarzenegger about a cameo in *Badlands* are actively taking place. He remarked, “We talked a lot about the things we could make together, and he was very kind to approve his cameo in this.” Given that Dutch appears unchanged since his last appearance in 1987, there is speculation that he could return in an animated format. Nevertheless, the possibility of a live-action comeback remains viable, especially considering the advancements in de-aging technology.
New Insights into ‘Predator: Badlands’
During the event, attendees were treated to an exclusive 15-minute preview of *Predator: Badlands*. In this opening sequence, the film’s protagonist, Dek, engages in a conflict with his brother, Kwei, under the stern gaze of their father, the clan chieftain. The dynamic quickly shifts as Kwei, initially pressured to eliminate Dek, chooses instead to aid him in escaping to a new planet, which is home to a formidable beast feared by their father.
In a notable first for the series, the Yautja language will be subtitled, allowing audiences to understand the characters’ dialogues. As the narrative progresses, Dek must ally with a synthetic from the Weyland-Yutani corporation to navigate his perilous new environment and restore his honor.
Trachtenberg elaborated on the unique aspects of *Badlands*, suggesting that it diverges from previous entries through its emotional depth and video game influences. He emphasized a desire to create a narrative that avoids superficial crossovers, stating he prefers a more “elegant” approach to merging franchises rather than simply “smashing action figures together.”
As anticipation builds for *Predator: Badlands*, expected to debut in cinemas on November 7, 2025, fans are also looking forward to the impending release of *Alien: Earth*, the franchise’s first television series, set to premiere later this year. For now, the *Predator* and *Alien* universes continue to develop independently, maintaining their distinct identities while hinting at future intersections.
