Jason Momoa confirms return for third Dune movie

In March 2025, during an appearance on the Today show, Jason Momoa announced his return to the Dune franchise, confirming he will reprise his role as Duncan Idaho in the upcoming third installment. Originally portrayed in 2021’s Dune, Momoa's character met his demise, leading many fans to believe it was the end for Duncan Idaho. However, Momo's revelation comes in light of the source material by Frank Herbert, which suggests Idaho could be resurrected as a clone in Dune Messiah, the third book in the series. The announcement is notable given that the third installment is set to begin production in mid-2025, though the release date is tentatively scheduled for 2026. Momoa engaged humorously with the show's host Craig Melvin, joking about possibly getting into trouble for revealing details and stating, "If you didn’t read the books, it’s not my fault." His character's return aligns with the narrative established in Herbert’s work, which continues the story approximately 12 years after the events of the second film. Notably, director Denis Villeneuve has expressed that this film will explore a new storyline while retaining core characters like Paul Atreides, played by Timothée Chalamet, and Chani, portrayed by Zendaya. As Dune: Part Two gears up for release in 2024, speculation regarding the third movie has already stirred excitement among fans. Villeneuve has confirmed multiple returning actors and hinted at new circumstances in the franchise. The director’s vision for the sequel has been to ensure continuity while expanding the narrative depth and complexity, indicating that the third installment will be significantly different from its predecessors. Additionally, the release of A Minecraft Movie in 2025 is also on Momoa's agenda, showcasing his diverse acting chops. The Dune franchise has received commendation for its extensive world-building and character development, securing a place in modern cinematic discussions. Addressing fans who were concerned about losing Duncan Idaho, Momoa's revelation not only rekindles enthusiasm but stands as a testament to the franchise's dedication to its literary roots. It also opens doors for further exploration of beloved characters and their evolution on screen. Overall, Momoa's announcement sheds new light on the anticipated continuation of one of science fiction's most admired sagas.