‘National Treasure 3’ Officially Confirmed by Director During Surprise Announcement

For nearly two decades, fans have eagerly anticipated a sequel to ‘National Treasure: Book of Secrets.’ The 2007 film wrapped up a franchise that became a cultural phenomenon, intertwining American history with thrilling adventures. As the years passed, the call for a follow-up grew louder.

That anticipation was finally addressed at Philadelphia’s inaugural ‘National Treasure’ Weekend, a three-day event celebrating the city’s connection to the original 2004 film. Iconic scenes from the movie were filmed in Philadelphia, a city known for its discerning audience.

The announcement came during a live taping of the ‘National Treasure Hunt’ podcast at the Independence Visitor Center. Director Jon Turteltaub revealed to hosts Aubrey Paris and Emily Black that a third film is officially in the works. He noted that the long wait was partly due to the changing political landscape in the country. As reported by The Philadelphia Inquirer, the audience was initially shocked before erupting into applause when Turteltaub shared the news.

“I have not said anything before this, but you deserve to have the scoop,” Turteltaub stated during the podcast. “It’s finally real. Now, it’s Hollywood real, meaning things could happen. Nic gets hit by a bus, there’s no ‘National Treasure 3.’ If I get hit by a bus, there’s probably a ‘National Treasure 3.’ Welcome to Hollywood.”

Turteltaub, who has also directed films like ‘Cool Runnings,’ ‘While You Were Sleeping,’ and ‘The Meg,’ confirmed that a script exists which both he and Disney are pleased with. The original cast is expected to return alongside Cage, aligning with previous comments from producer Jerry Bruckheimer, who has hinted at the project’s progress over the past two years. Notably, Ted Elliott, known for his work on multiple ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ films, has been brought on to write the script.

The journey to this announcement has not been without its hurdles. Cage himself expressed skepticism about the project back in March 2024, telling ScreenRant that “there is no National Treasure 3,” and criticizing Disney for the delays. His comments contrasted sharply with the more optimistic updates from Turteltaub and Elliott, who mentioned in August 2024 that a first draft was already completed, featuring Ben, Abigail Chase, and Riley Poole.

Turteltaub also elaborated on the reasons behind the lengthy development process, noting how politics have increasingly influenced discussions surrounding the franchise. He recalled a time when former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy requested a private screening of the original film for Congress, surprised that a movie perceived as patriotic had been created by individuals thought to lean Democratic. Turteltaub indicated that this dynamic, along with the audience’s tendency to read political messages into films, will play a role in the new script.

“We have to be very careful, but I don’t feel we are allowed to ignore it,” Turteltaub remarked, as reported by The Philadelphia Inquirer. “I think we have to include that idea in the story somehow without making someone feel put off.”

While no release date, plot details, or confirmation of filming locations in Philadelphia have been disclosed, the announcement from the director marks a significant step forward for Ben Gates’ next adventure.

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