The screenwriter has definitively stated that "there will never" be any further Back to the Future content produced.
Speculation intensified when Cobra Kai creators discussed potentially adapting Back to the Future as a TV series. However, Bob Gale - co-writer of Robert Zemeckis's Back to the Future trilogy - maintains the franchise's story is complete.
"I don't understand this persistent speculation!" he told People magazine. "Do they imagine repeating it enough will make it happen?"
"Every interview includes the same questions: 'When's Back to the Future 4 coming?' Never. 'What about a prequel?' Never. 'A spinoff?' Never. The trilogy stands perfectly as is. As Zemeckis often says, 'It's perfect enough.'"
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While Gale voices strong opposition, Hollywood's corporate machinery could theoretically override creators' wishes regarding franchise revivals. However, executive producer Steven Spielberg's approval would be essential - and Gale confirms Spielberg respects their stance.
"If corporate executives threatened literal murder, well obviously..." Gale joked darkly. "But seriously, Spielberg understands our position completely, just as he prevents any E.T. follow-ups. He's always supported keeping Back to the Future untouched."
Gale consistently maintains this position regarding potential revivals. Earlier this year, he bluntly told hopeful fans asking about Back to the Future 4: "Our response remains 'F**k you.'"
AnswerSee ResultsThe original 1985 film - featuring Michael J. Fox as time-traveling teen Marty McFly and Christopher Lloyd as eccentric scientist Doc Brown - became one of cinema's most iconic sci-fi stories, spawning two sequels.
