Avatar 4 and 5: James Cameron sequels might not be happening

James Cameron may be hard at work on his four Avatar sequels, however, the final two instalments might not even see the light of day.

With production now complete on Avatar 2 and 3, it’s been revealed that Cameron is waiting to officially receive the go-ahead for Avatar 4 and 5.

Whether or not Cameron will be given free rein to see out his creative vision is said to become more apparent toward the end of the month, following the completion of the forthcoming Disney-Fox merger.

Despite the four sequels being confirmed in 2017, CinemaBlend reports that Avatar 4 and 5 were never certain. Instead, Fox had decided to wait and see whether the second and third outings did well at the box office before permitting Cameron to direct any more.

Following the merger, that decision will fall to Disney. According to Geek Tyrant, this could help Cameron’s cause considering “Pandora – The World of Avatar” theme park is part of Walt Disney World.

Analysts estimate Cameron will spend upwards of $1 billion if the fourth and fifth outings are confirmed.

Previously talking about the project, Cameron said: “The thing is, my focus isn’t on Avatar 2. It’s on Avatar 2, 3, 4 and 5 equally. That’s exactly how I’m approaching it.“

With that in mind, should Avatar 2 and 3 struggle at the box office, it seems Cameron’s franchise might not have the ending he envisioned.

Avatar 2 is set to premiere on December 18, 2020, and Avatar 3 will release a year later on December 17, 2021.