Why DEADPOOL 2 Director David Leitch Walked Away From JURASSIC WORLD REBIRTH
When a director like David Leitch, known for high-octane hits like Deadpool 2 and Bullet Train, joins a massive franchise, it seems like a sure thing. So, it was surprising when he suddenly stepped away from Jurassic World Rebirth. Now, thanks to a new interview, we finally have some clarity on what happened.
While promoting his production company 87North with producing partner and wife Kelly McCormick, Leitch opened up to The Hollywood Reporter about his departure. The core reason? He’s prioritizing original storytelling over big franchise gigs.
"When you see an opportunity for material that's original that you like that a studio is going to support and finance, we want to keep pushing for that.”
At the time of his exit, Leitch had just signed on to direct How to Rob a Bank, an original film backed by Amazon MGM Studios that’s set to hit theaters next year. Rather than sticking with someone else’s franchise vision, he’s focusing on building his own.
McCormick elaborated, making it clear the decision wasn’t easy:
"If we jump into IP or a franchise, it's got to be the right one at the right moment for all the right reasons. And we were very seduced by the amazing franchise that 'Jurassic' is.
“But it's harder and harder to make originals, and we just felt like, 'If they go away, let's try to make originals as much as possible as quickly as possible.'"
Who wouldn’t be tempted by Jurassic? Especially with Jurassic Park legend David Koepp writing the script. But as enticing as that legacy is, the franchise comes with a lot of expectations and creative limitations. Leitch is clearly at a point in his career where he wants to break away from that model.
I like the fact that he stepped away to make an original movie. It makes sense to make an original movie if the opportunity comes up because it’s rare these days.
Gareth Edwards, director of The Creator, ended up taking the reins and delivered a hit. Jurassic World Rebirth pulled in nearly $850 million globally, securing its spot as one of 2025's biggest box office smashes. Edwards brought crowd-pleasing energy and excitement to the project, and clearly, it worked for both Universal and audiences.
Meanwhile, Leitch is now attached to another big franchise ans is set to direct Netflix’s long-developing Gears of War movie. While it’s based on a well-known video game series, it offers a fresh enough canvas for Leitch and McCormick to shape into something new. It’s not original in the strictest sense, but it gives them the creative space they’re looking for.
Choosing to walk away from one of Hollywood’s most iconic franchises isn’t a move most directors would dare make. But Leitch isn’t chasing what’s easy or guaranteed. He’s chasing what excites him.