National Treasure 3 officially greenlit by Disney with Nicolas Cage returning

Adventure film enthusiasts have plenty of reason to celebrate as director Jon Turteltaub has officially confirmed that Disney has greenlit National Treasure 3, with Hollywood star Nicolas Cage poised to reprise his beloved role as master cryptographer Benjamin Gates.

National Treasure 3 greenlit with Nicolas Cage returning

Breaking the news during a live recording of the National Treasure Hunt podcast alongside hosts Aubrey Paris and Emily Black in Philadelphia, Jon revealed that the long-anticipated third chapter is officially moving forward. Fans gathered at the city's Independence Visitor Center erupted into rapturous applause as Jon declared that “it’s happening” and confirmed the audience were “the first people I have said this out loud to.” Grinning at the energetic reception, he added: “I have not said anything before this, but you deserve to have the scoop. It’s finally real.”

The surprise announcement marks a welcome turnaround for the action franchise, which launched in 2004 and grossed 347 million dollars worldwide before its 2007 sequel, Book of Secrets, took in 460 million dollars globally. In recent years, Nicolas had expressed scepticism regarding a prospective third outing, noting how major Hollywood studios temporarily hesitated to hire him after several other projects underperformed. However, Jon confirmed that creative momentum has completely shifted, with Disney securing an approved screenplay. According to Jon, “to whatever extent we can, everyone’s back” amongst the original ensemble.

Addressing the nearly two-decade hiatus since the previous adventure, Jon highlighted that navigating modern political polarisation played a notable role during story development. Explaining the delicate balance required to reflect contemporary American sentiment, Jon noted: “We have to be very careful, but I don’t feel we are allowed to ignore it. I think we have to include that idea in the story somehow without making someone feel put off.” With production gears turning, treasure hunters worldwide can now look forward to another thrilling historical quest.

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