Laurence Fishburne on Potential Matrix Return: 'It Depends on How Good It Is'

Laurence Fishburne has opened up about the possibility of returning to The Matrix franchise. First introduced in 1999’s The Matrix, Fishburne’s character, Morpheus, was the calm, philosophical mentor who guided Keanu Reeves’ Neo to realize the truth about his reality, and became one of sci-fi cinema’s most iconic figures.

Fishburne reprised his iconic role in The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions in 2003, completing what many consider one of the most influential trilogies in modern cinema.

During an appearance at New York Comic Con, Fisburne addressed the topic directly, making it clear that while he hasn’t entirely ruled out a comeback, his involvement would depend on the quality and purpose of the project. Read his statement below:

It depends on, you know, how good it is, really. If it’s great, then yeah. You know, if it makes sense. I don’t know if it makes sense.

The actor’s comments come nearly four years after the fourth film, The Matrix Resurrections, hit theaters in 2021. The sequel, directed by franchise veteran Lana Wachowski, revisited Neo and Trinity (Carrie-Anne Moss) decades after the original trilogy, exploring themes of memory, identity, and rebirth. Notably, Fishburne did not return for the sequel.

Warner Bros. confirmed plans for The Matrix 5 in April 2024. While there are not plenty of details about the film, it is confirmed that The Martian director Drew Goddard is set to direct. This marks the first entry in the franchise where the Wachowski sisters are not involved.

The Matrix franchise has received mixed box office and critical success over the years. The 1999 original earned $467 million worldwide and widespread acclaim for its revolutionary effects. Reloaded and Revolutions followed in 2003, grossing $741 million and $427 million respectively, but dividing critics with dense narratives.

2021’s Resurrections underperformed at $159 million worldwide, yet drew some praise thanks to its meta commentary and return of Keanu Reeves and Carrie-Anne Moss.

Since his time in The Matrix, Fishburne has had an impressive and diverse career, starring in major projects like John Wick: Chapter 4, Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, and The School for Good and Evil. His recent comments suggest he would only consider returning if the project reaches the level of the original trilogy.

His answer reflects a respect for what The Matrix has meant to audiences for over two decades, as well as understanding that not every story needs another chapter. Whether Morpheus reenters the digital world or not, Fishburne’s legacy on The Matrix remains untouchable.