Ride Along 3 in Development: Ice Cube and Kevin Hart in Talks to Return

For those of us in Miami, the news that Ride Along 3 is finally stirring after a decade of “development hell” hits a little closer to home than it might for the average moviegoer. While the first film took us through the streets of Atlanta, the 2016 sequel shifted the action to our own backyard, bringing the chaotic energy of Ben Barber and the stoic intensity of James Payton to the Magic City. Now, with Universal Pictures reportedly breathing recent life into the franchise, the prospect of these two brothers-in-law returning to the screen feels like a nostalgic win for a city that knows exactly how to handle high-energy, high-stakes comedy.

Breaking the Decade-Long Silence: The Road to Ride Along 3

It has been nearly ten years since Kevin Hart and Ice Cube last shared the screen as the mismatched duo of the Ride Along series. For a long time, the third installment felt like a ghost project—announced shortly after the second film’s domestic success but stalled by what insiders describe as creative differences. However, the momentum has shifted. Variety and The Hollywood Reporter have confirmed that the project is once again in early development at Universal, with a critical new piece of the puzzle now in place: screenwriter Daniel Gold.

Gold, known for his operate on the Netflix/CBC comedy Workin’ Moms, has been hired to pen the screenplay. His arrival seems to be the catalyst that brought the core team back into alignment. This isn’t just a writer’s room update; the heavy hitters are circling back. Director Tim Story, who helmed both previous entries, and producer Will Packer are both in talks to return. The chemistry between Hart and Cube was the engine of the first two films, and the studio is clearly betting that this specific brand of bickering buddy comedy still has a massive audience.

The Economics of the Buddy Cop Revival

From a studio perspective, the decision to revive Ride Along is rooted in proven profitability. The original 2014 film was a powerhouse, grossing $155 million worldwide (with over $130 million domestically). The sequel followed suit in 2016, earning $125 million globally and over $90 million domestically. Together, the franchise has pulled in roughly $279 million, marking it as a successful mid-budget venture for Universal.

The delay in getting a third film off the ground likely reflects a broader industry trend where considerable-screen comedies fell out of favor in recent years, losing ground to streaming services and massive superhero spectacles. However, the tide is turning. There is a renewed appetite for franchise comedies rooted in nostalgia. By bringing back the original cast and crew, Universal is tapping into a pre-existing fanbase while leveraging the enduring star power of Kevin Hart and Ice Cube.

Navigating the “Development Hell” Phase

While the news is exciting, it is important to manage expectations regarding a release date. Because the project is in “early development” and Daniel Gold is still in the process of penning the screenplay, no official release window has been announced. The project has a history of stalling, so the industry is watching closely to notice if this new momentum leads to a green light for production. For now, the stars are “in talks,” which is the standard Hollywood precursor to a formal contract.

The dynamic that made the series work—the clash between the eager, fast-talking Ben and the no-nonsense Detective Payton—remains the core appeal. Whether they return to Florida’s crime underworlds or venture into a new city, the appeal lies in the friction. As we look toward the potential production of this film, it’s worth considering how the landscape of action-comedy has evolved since 2016 and how this reunion will adapt to modern tastes.

Local Perspectives: Managing the Impact of Major Productions

Given my background as an executive geo-journalist, I’ve seen how the announcement of a major film production can ripple through a local economy, especially in a hub like Miami. When a studio like Universal decides to bring a high-profile franchise back to a region, it isn’t just about the actors; it’s about the massive infrastructure of crews, permits, and logistics that follow. If the production returns to South Florida, local businesses and residents often find themselves navigating the complexities of urban filming.

If you are a property owner or business operator in Miami who might be impacted by large-scale commercial filming or the sudden influx of production crews, you’ll need a specific set of local professionals to ensure your interests are protected. You can find more information on how to handle these transitions in our latest industry news updates.

Commercial Lease & Location Consultants

When a production company wants to utilize your storefront or private lot, don’t rely on a handshake. Look for consultants who specialize in “location agreements.” They should have a proven track record of negotiating daily rates, ensuring “wrap” deadlines are strictly enforced, and securing comprehensive liability insurance to cover any accidental damage to your property.

Zoning and Permit Expeditors

Filming in a dense urban environment requires a mountain of paperwork from municipal bodies. If you are coordinating a project, seek out expeditors who have direct experience with the city’s filming office. They should be able to navigate noise ordinances and street closure permits without causing friction with the local community or government agencies.

Boutique Production Logistics Managers

For local vendors looking to supply a major film set—whether it’s catering, security, or equipment rental—you need a logistics manager. Look for professionals who understand the specific “union” requirements of major studios and can manage the rapid scaling of services required when a crew of hundreds descends on a neighborhood.

Ready to find trusted professionals? Browse our complete directory of top-rated news,icecube,kevinhart,ridealong3,timstory,willpacker experts in the Miami area today.