Universal Eyes Dwayne Johnson to Revive Failed Monster Universe

Universal’s ambitious attempt to launch a shared monster universe fizzled out almost as quickly as it began, but the studio isn’t ready to let the idea rest in peace. Word is, Universal is now looking to Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson to help resurrect the franchise, with plans for him to reprise his role as the Scorpion King. According to industry chatter, Johnson is being courted not just for a new Scorpion King instalment, but also for a return in the next Mummy film.

Johnson first played Mathayus, the Scorpion King, in The Mummy Returns back in 2001, before headlining his own spin-off the following year. After that, the character was handed off to other actors as the series continued, but Johnson himself moved on. In 2020, a reboot was announced with Johnson on board as a producer, but so far, nothing concrete has come of it. Now, with fresh reports swirling, fans are wondering if Johnson’s return could finally get the monster universe back on its feet.

Universal’s Monster Universe: A False Start

The studio’s last big swing at a shared universe came in 2017, when Tom Cruise starred in a reboot of The Mummy. The film was meant to kick off a sprawling franchise featuring modern takes on classic monsters like Dracula, Frankenstein, and the Invisible Man. Instead, it landed with a thud. Despite Cruise’s star power, the film was panned by critics and struggled at the box office, earning just $80 million domestically and $409 million worldwide—falling short of the break-even mark given its hefty $195 million budget.

Critics weren’t kind, either. The film scored a measly 15% on Rotten Tomatoes, with reviewers saying it lacked the fun and thrills of earlier entries. The poor reception led Universal to quietly shelve its plans for the so-called Dark Universe, leaving a string of planned films in limbo.

What Could Have Been: The Abandoned Projects

Before the plug was pulled, Universal had lined up a slate of films to flesh out its monster universe. Channing Tatum was set to take on Van Helsing, while a sequel to Dracula Untold was rumoured after the first film’s box office success. Angelina Jolie was in talks to star in a new Bride of Frankenstein, with Javier Bardem as Frankenstein’s Monster, but the project stalled and was eventually cancelled.

There were also plans for a modern take on Creature from the Black Lagoon, with Scarlett Johansson reportedly eyed for the lead. Johnny Depp was attached to play the Invisible Man, and Russell Crowe appeared as Dr. Jekyll in The Mummy, setting up a possible solo outing. Other classic characters like the Phantom of the Opera and the Hunchback of Notre Dame were also floated as potential additions to the universe.

Johnson’s Potential Return and the Future

With the monster universe on ice, Johnson’s possible return as the Scorpion King has sparked fresh hope among fans. He’s expressed openness to the idea, saying,

“Oh man, I don’t know. I’m always open. To be clear, that is Brendan Fraser’s franchise. I love that man. He’s one of my greatest supporters. We support each other. And if they want to call the Scorpion King, I know a guy who knows a guy. I would certainly consider it. Because that franchise changed my life.”

Universal is also reportedly keen to bring Johnson into the next Mummy film, which will see Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz return for another adventure. If the studio does reach out, Johnson seems likely to at least consider donning the Scorpion King’s armour once more—this time, with the benefit of much-improved CGI.

Whether this new approach will finally get Universal’s monster universe off the ground remains to be seen, but with Johnson’s star power and a bit of luck, the studio might just have another shot at bringing its classic monsters back to life.