Rush Hour Franchise Revives on Netflix as Fourth Film Looms

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — The iconic buddy-cop action-comedy franchise *Rush Hour* is experiencing a resurgence on Netflix, with the first three films now streaming and trending on the platform. The series, starring Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker, has captivated audiences since its debut in 1998, blending martial arts, humor, and an unlikely partnership between a Hong Kong detective and a fast-talking LAPD officer.

The original *Rush Hour* film, released in September 1998, was an instant hit, grossing $245.3 million worldwide against a $35 million budget. Its success spawned two sequels: *Rush Hour 2* in 2001 and *Rush Hour 3* in 2006, which collectively earned over $600 million globally. The films follow Chief Inspector Lee (Chan) and Detective James Carter (Tucker) as they solve high-stakes cases while navigating cultural differences and comedic misunderstandings.

Netflix’s addition of the trilogy has reignited interest in the franchise, with *Rush Hour* and *Rush Hour 2* currently ranking third and sixth, respectively, on the platform’s trending charts. Fans are also eagerly anticipating the long-awaited *Rush Hour 4*, which has been in development for years. Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker have both expressed enthusiasm for reprising their roles, though production delays, including distribution rights issues and controversies surrounding director Brett Ratner, have stalled progress.

Chan, known for his martial arts prowess and stunt work, is set to appear in *Karate Kid: Legends*, the sixth installment of *The Karate Kid* franchise, releasing May 30, 2025. Meanwhile, Tucker’s only confirmed upcoming project is *Rush Hour 4*, though no release date has been announced. The duo’s chemistry and comedic timing have been central to the franchise’s enduring appeal, making their potential return a highly anticipated event.

The *Rush Hour* series is celebrated for its blend of action and humor, as well as its exploration of cultural dynamics. In the first film, Lee and Carter team up to rescue the kidnapped daughter of a Chinese diplomat, navigating Los Angeles‘ underworld while clashing with the FBI. Their partnership evolves from mutual skepticism to genuine camaraderie, a theme that resonates throughout the trilogy.

Despite its success, the franchise has faced criticism for perpetuating stereotypes and for Ratner’s involvement, who has been accused of sexual misconduct. However, the films remain a nostalgic favorite for many, with memorable scenes and quotable lines that have cemented their place in pop culture.

For fans craving more after binge-watching the trilogy on Netflix, *Rush Hour 4* offers hope for another chapter in Lee and Carter’s adventures. While details remain scarce, the enduring popularity of the franchise suggests that audiences are ready to welcome the dynamic duo back to the big screen.