In a major Hollywood power move, Lionsgate has struck a sweeping deal with Millennium Media, securing control over two of cinema’s biggest action franchises — Rambo and The Expendables.
Announced on November 3, 2025, the deal gives Lionsgate the rights to develop, produce, and distribute new Expendables movies and TV series, as well as worldwide distribution rights for the upcoming Rambo film titled John Rambo.
Noah Centineo Set to Lead John Rambo
The upcoming installment, John Rambo, marks the sixth film in the franchise and a complete reimagining of the iconic character. The film will be directed by Jalmari Helander, the Finnish filmmaker best known for the 2023 action hit Sisu.
Rising star Noah Centineo, known for To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before and Black Adam, is in final negotiations to play a young version of John Rambo — stepping into the boots once worn by Sylvester Stallone. The casting signals a bold new direction for the franchise, transforming Centineo from a romantic-comedy favorite into a full-fledged action lead.
According to reports, John Rambo will begin filming next year in Thailand, with Millennium Media producing alongside Templeton Media. The screenplay is penned by Rory Haines and Sohrab Noshirvani, who previously worked on The Mauritanian and Black Adam. Lionsgate is expected to launch international sales at the American Film Market (AFM).
A Strategic Franchise Expansion
The new partnership cements Lionsgate’s position as the lead production partner on all future Rambo and Expendables projects, including films, TV adaptations, video games, and immersive experiences.
Brian Goldsmith, COO of Lionsgate, told Variety:
“This deal expands Lionsgate’s portfolio of genre-defining action franchises and reinforces our commitment to delivering world-class IP across multiple platforms. We’re excited to reimagine both The Expendables and Rambo — and with John Rambo, we’re bringing together a bold creative team to reinvent a classic character for a new generation of fans.”
Jonathan Yunger, president of Millennium Media, echoed that enthusiasm, saying:
“We’ve always believed in the enduring power of these franchises, and this partnership gives them the scale, creative support, and global reach they deserve. Lionsgate’s strong track record with major action properties makes it the ideal partner to help shape the next chapters of The Expendables and Rambo.”
The Legacy Continues
For decades, the Rambo and Expendables franchises have defined the modern action genre, blending explosive spectacle with enduring characters. With Lionsgate now steering the future of both series — and a fresh-faced John Rambo on the horizon — fans can expect a new era of high-octane storytelling.
Final Words:
The partnership between Lionsgate and Millennium Media is more than a business deal — it’s a statement. With Noah Centineo ready to take up Rambo’s mantle and Amy Sherman-Palladino–level creative vision driving franchise expansion, Hollywood’s next great action legacy may just be reborn.
