Jason Bourne Franchise Reborn: Universal Secures Permanent Rights for Films & TV

The iconic Jason Bourne franchise is poised for a major resurgence after nearly a decade of uncertainty. Universal Pictures has secured permanent rights to Robert Ludlum’s Bourne universe in a landmark deal, ending years of speculation and paving the way for new films, TV series, and expanded storytelling. The agreement, confirmed by Universal executives and reported by The Hollywood Reporter on December 5, 2024, grants the studio “in perpetuity” control over the $1.6 billion-grossing spy series, excluding publishing rights.

Universal’s Strategic Rights Acquisition

Universal Pictures President Peter Cramer hailed the deal as transformative: “The Bourne franchise reshaped the spy genre with groundbreaking action films. We’re energized to expand this universe with new stories for global audiences.” The studio reclaimed rights after a competitive bidding war involving Netflix and Apple, following the expiration of its previous licensing agreement in March 2024. Industry analysts note this secures Universal’s grip on one of cinema’s most profitable action properties, which has earned over $1.6 billion across five films since 2002’s The Bourne Identity. The deal encompasses all characters and storylines from Ludlum’s 22-book series, including the Treadstone sub-franchise.

Universal Pictures

New Films and Series in Development

With rights secured, Universal is fast-tracking multiple projects. A sixth film—tentatively titled Jason Bourne Exodus—remains in active development, though director Edward Berger’s (All Quiet on the Western Front) involvement is unconfirmed. Matt Damon’s return as the amnesiac assassin remains uncertain, with insiders noting the 54-year-old actor hasn’t committed to the role. The studio is reportedly considering both legacy sequels and new narratives featuring younger agents.

Universal’s 2019 TV series Treadstone, which explored the franchise’s black-ops program, received mixed reviews but demonstrated the universe’s expansion potential. With 22 Ludlum novels as source material—including posthumous collaborations—executives hint at interconnected films and series akin to the John Wick universe. “The books offer decades of untapped stories,” said a studio representative.

Franchise Legacy and Future Vision

Since its debut, the Bourne series revolutionized action cinema with its gritty realism, shaky-cam combat, and morally complex protagonists. Damon starred in four of five films, with Jeremy Renner leading 2012’s spinoff The Bourne Legacy. The franchise’s cultural impact is documented in film studies programs, including USC’s Cinematic Arts Department analysis of its influence on modern spy thrillers.

Universal’s permanent control signals a bold new era. With limitless stories from Ludlum’s universe and fresh creative directions ahead, Bourne’s revival could redefine espionage storytelling for a new generation. Revisit where it began: The Bourne Identity is now streaming on Peacock.

Must Know

Q: Will Matt Damon return as Jason Bourne?
A: Damon hasn’t confirmed involvement. Universal may recast or shift focus to new characters within the Bourne universe, leveraging Robert Ludlum’s extensive literary characters.

Q: When is the next Bourne movie releasing?
A: No official release date exists. Development continues on Jason Bourne Exodus, but production timelines depend on creative decisions post-rights acquisition.

Q: Does Universal own all Bourne rights now?
A: Yes, except publishing rights. The “in perpetuity” deal covers all film/TV adaptations of Ludlum’s 22-book series and original concepts like Treadstone.

Q: Could Bourne crossover with other Universal franchises?
A: While unconfirmed, executives emphasize expanding the “Bourne universe” internally first. Crossovers remain speculative but possible long-term.

Q: Will the new content follow the books?
A: Ludlum’s novels provide rich source material, but the studio may create original stories inspired by his espionage themes and characters.

Q: Is the Treadstone TV series continuing?
A: The 2019 series was canceled after one season, but Universal could revive the concept given renewed focus on the franchise.