Is Old Guard 3 happening? Everything you need to know

After Netflix’s blockbuster The Old Guard 2 wrapped to global fanfare and a jaw-dropping cliffhanger, audiences are asking the same question: Is Old Guard 3 happening? The sequel, starring Charlize Theron and KiKi Layne, ended abruptly as the fate of Andy and her immortal crew hangs in the balance. Here’s what we know about the potential third and final installment, based on comments from cast, crew, and industry insiders.

Cliffhanger Ending Sets the Stage for a Third Film

The Old Guard 2, released July 2, 2025, concludes with new lore and chaos: Quỳnh returns, Booker sacrifices his immortality to save Andy, and the villain Discord abducts the immortal team. The final scene shows Andy and Quỳnh readying to save their friends, then the credits roll. As Time explains, the open-ended finale was “a rallying cry for a mission we never get to see”. Fans were clearly left wanting more.

Crew Envisions a Trilogy, but No Official Greenlight Yet

Scriptwriter Greg Rucka, who penned both films, previously indicated the comic book arc could span a three-part story, suggesting a trilogy in design. Cast members like Henry Golding and Marwan Kenzari have publicly expressed their eagerness to return, though neither Netflix nor producers have confirmed a third film.

Director Victoria Mahoney Unlikely to Return

Director Victoria Mahoney, who helmed the sequel, revealed that she will not direct a third installment, citing other commitments. She described the sequel’s cliffhanger as a deliberate choice to inspire future storytelling, though her departure leaves a key question about the trilogy’s direction.

Theron & Crew Remain Hopeful, but Aware of Industry Realities

Lead star and producer Charlize Theron has stated that while she “hopes” for a third film, there are “no guarantees” given the complexities of franchise commitments. Mahoney echoed this uncertainty, emphasizing that Netflix greenlight decisions hinge on metrics like viewership, budget, and cast availability.

Financial & Critical Reception Will Decide the Next Steps

The sequel received mixed reviews, with AP News calling the abrupt ending frustrating and rating it two out of four stars. Despite criticism, Netflix often relies on viewership numbers over critical acclaim. If download and streaming metrics are strong, it could push Netflix to commission Old Guard 3, though Netflix has not formally announced the sequel. Screenrant adds that the sequel finale sets up a “revenge mission” storyline primed for follow-up.

What Audiences Can Expect If a Third Installment Happens

Should Netflix go ahead, the third film will likely resolve major arcs: Andy and Quỳnh rescuing the captured team, Discord’s fate, and Nile’s evolving immortality control. Fans can anticipate packed action sequences, emotional resolutions, and possibly new characters from the comic series. As Rucka hinted, the trilogy was structured to evolve and conclude the immortal saga.

Final Take: When Will We Know?

Despite intense fan anticipation, there’s no release date or official confirmation. Netflix tends to announce greenlights a few months after streaming data stabilizes, meaning any news on Old Guard 3 likely hinges on Q3–Q4 2025 analytics. With key actors and creative leads signaling openness, including Theron and Rucka, a third film remains a strong possibility.