No cameo by Arnold Schwarzenegger in Predator 4?

Predator: Badlands NewsBy Chris Feb 14, 2017Comments

Sadly it's not looking promising for those of us who were hoping to see Arnold Schwarzenegger reprise his role as Dutch in Shane Black's The Predator. Lead actor Boyd Holbrook recently discussed the new Predator film, alluding to the fact that the film is not a sequel, but more of a completely new take on the franchise. Of course, some of this contradicts what director Shane Black discussed about The Predator last year, where he confirmed the film would be a sequel to the original Predator film and would acknowledge Predator 2 and Predators. The recent plot leak we reported on as well mentioned that The Predator takes place 30 years after the first two Predator films, so Boyd's comments should not be taken literally until an official plot synopsis is released by Fox.

However, one aspect of his interview did raise some eyebrows and lower excitement and that was his mention of Arnold Schwarzenegger's apparent lack of a cameo.

Image for No cameo by Arnold Schwarzenegger in Predator 4?

I'm currently working on Predator. It’s not a sequel; Shane Black has made something totally new, somehow keeping within the realm of Predator [while also being] absolutely new in terms of the story that we’re talking about today, and rooted in something real. It’s real fresh. I don’t think you’re going to see [Arnold] Schwarzenegger. It would kind of make it a gimmick. It’s horror, science-fiction and a western.

Now, keep in mind Holbrook says he doesn't think we're going to see Arnold, despite Arnold and Shane having numerous discussions about a possible role last year. Considering Schwarzenegger is back in film now and considering the fact that Predator was one of Schwarzenegger's most iconic roles, it would seem like a waste not to have him involved in some capacity. It is also possible the cast and crew have been told to avoid answering if Schwarzenegger is back or not, to preserve the surprise on screen. We know Hollywood loves their cameos in reboots, so I wouldn't be surprised if Schwarzenegger is involved.

Of course, as new details arrive we will be sure to keep you updated. Would you like to see Schwarzenegger back for The Predator? Let us know in the comments!

Thanks to Croogles for the news!

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Dan Trachtenberg's Predator: Badlands released in theaters on November 7th, 2025! Visit the Predator Lore database - for information on the film's different Yautja and characters, the planet Genna, how it connects to Alien, where in the Predator movie timeline the film takes place and more!