National Treasure 3

'National Treasure 3' In Works, Franchise Director Reveals: "It's Finally Real"

Fans of Benjamin Franklin Gates have waited nearly two decades for the next chapter. On August 21, 2026, that wait took a major step forward when original director Jon Turteltaub confirmed the third film is actively moving ahead.

The Announcement That Sparked Cheers

Speaking during a live recording of the National Treasure Hunt podcast in Philadelphia, Turteltaub told the audience they were the first to hear the news publicly. “It’s happening. You’re the first people I have said this out loud to,” he said. He continued, “It’s finally real. Now, it’s ‘Hollywood real,’ meaning things can happen. Nic gets hit by a bus, there’s no National Treasure. If I get hit by a bus, there’s probably a National Treasure. Welcome to Hollywood, that’s Hollywood.”

Turteltaub, who directed both the 2004 original and the 2007 sequel National Treasure: Book of Secrets, confirmed that a script he likes is in place. Disney has reviewed it and indicated it “sounds like a movie we can make.” He added that the team aims to bring back as much of the original cast as possible, including Nicolas Cage as Ben Gates.

source: Touchstone Pictures / Everett Collection via public film archives

The first two films together earned more than $800 million worldwide. The 2004 original alone grossed approximately $347 million globally, establishing the franchise as one of Cage’s most successful live-action series.

Why This Moment Feels Different

Previous updates from producer Jerry Bruckheimer had kept hope alive, but Turteltaub’s direct statement carries new weight. The project remains subject to the usual Hollywood variables, yet the existence of an approved script marks the clearest progress in years. No release date or additional plot details have been confirmed.

source: The Philadelphia Inquirer / event photography

Relive the original adventure with the official trailer: National Treasure Official Trailer (2004)

The hunt is back on. Drop a comment with the first clue you hope Ben Gates chases next, hit like if you are ready for another round of history-fueled thrills, and subscribe so you never miss the next update on this long-awaited sequel.

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#NationalTreasure3 #NicolasCage #JonTurteltaub #DisneyMovies #TreasureHunt

Sources
Deadline, Variety, The Wrap, The Philadelphia Inquirer, E! News (August 22, 2026 reporting)