J.A. Bayona Tipped to Direct Next 'Jurassic World' Sequel

Universal Pictures is looking to bring back a familiar face to the dinosaur paddock. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Spanish director J.A. Bayona is the studio's top choice to helm the next 'Jurassic World' film.

This would mark a return to the franchise for Bayona, who previously directed 2018's 'Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom.' The outlet reports he is not yet in formal talks, but emerged as the frontrunner after Gareth Edwards exited the sequel to 2025's 'Jurassic World Rebirth' due to creative differences.

Universal is reportedly moving quickly on the project, with a script already written by returning writer David Koepp. THR notes that stars Scarlett Johansson, Mahershala Ali, and Jonathan Bailey are expected to return for the follow-up, depending on their schedules.

The franchise's original director, Steven Spielberg, and producer Frank Marshall are also said to remain involved. Bayona's recent work includes directing the first two episodes of Amazon's 'The Rings of Power' and the Netflix survival drama 'Society of the Snow.'