The Dune films have been a major success so far, with the second installment ranking fifth among the highest-grossing blockbusters of 2024. The question isn’t whether the series will continue, but rather when we can expect more sequels. It’s fair to talk about multiple future installments, as Warner Bros. and the production company Legendary are reportedly committed to making Dune 4—and potentially more—even if Denis Villeneuve steps away.
According to World of Reel, which cited a new report by reliable insider Daniel Richtman, the studios don’t just plan to produce sequels—they aim to build an entire franchise around the Dune mythology. This could mean not only a fourth and fifth movie (or beyond) but also new series adaptations. Another source shared with World of Reel that Warner is prepared to proceed with Dune projects even without Villeneuve at the helm. While this approach irritates the director, it’s worth noting that he has previously stated his Dune vision is limited to a trilogy, as he considers the stories beyond Dune Messiah to be “too esoteric.” Villeneuve has also expressed in past interviews that he doesn’t want to anchor himself to a single franchise and prefers to pursue other, more original projects.
However, Villeneuve hasn’t entirely ruled out the possibility of others continuing the Dune saga in his stead:
“I think it would be a good idea to plant seeds in Dune Messiah that others could work with later because the other books are also beautiful. But they’re harder to adapt, as they become increasingly esoteric. It won’t be an easy task for whoever comes after me, so I’m not closing the door to them. I won’t make those films, but they could still come to life with other directors,” Villeneuve said in an earlier interview.
There’s no shortage of source material. Frank Herbert’s original Dune, published in 1965, was followed by numerous sequels, including Dune Messiah, Children of Dune, God Emperor of Dune, Heretics of Dune, and Chapterhouse: Dune. Herbert’s son, Brian Herbert, and collaborator Kevin J. Anderson have expanded—and continue to expand—the universe with additional novels. However, these later entries, especially those by the younger Herbert, remain divisive among fans.
Interestingly, Dune: The Sisterhood, a series based on Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson’s Sisterhood of Dune, has already been renewed for a second season. Whether the broader Dune franchise can maintain its momentum remains to be seen, but Warner and Legendary appear determined to ensure it thrives with or without Villeneuve steering the ship.
