Schwarzenegger reveals new details on aging Conan role in upcoming sequel
The actor confirmed filming is expected to begin in 2027 after years of development
Arnold Schwarzenegger has confirmed that the long-awaited sequel King Conan is moving closer to production, with filming now expected to begin in 2027, according to new comments from the actor.
The 78-year-old star, who first portrayed the iconic warrior in 1982’s Conan the Barbarian and later in 1984’s Conan the Destroyer, said the project is now “a reality” after years of development discussions.
Speaking to TheArnoldFans, Schwarzenegger said the team is preparing to bring the character back in a more mature phase, emphasizing that the story only works with an older version of Conan.
“For the last ten years I have been saying, ‘We should do King Conan… get a great script written and someone who really understands Robert E. Howard and Frank Frazetta,’” he said, referencing the original creator and visual influence behind the franchise.
He added that the sequel is expected to take a more reflective tone, describing Conan as a once-great warrior who is now older, weary, and facing new threats to his rule.
“He is no longer in the shape he was from his heyday… he’s the king and he gets a little complacent,” Schwarzenegger explained, noting that the character’s arc will focus on age, power, and legacy.
The actor also compared the tone of the upcoming film to Clint Eastwood’s The Unforgiven, suggesting it will blend emotional storytelling with large-scale action sequences.
Reports from The Hollywood Reporter indicate that Christopher McQuarrie is attached to write and direct the film, marking another major collaboration following his work on multiple Mission: Impossible installments.
Schwarzenegger added that original Conan the Barbarian director John Milius could also be involved as a producer, though no official production roles have been finalized.
Beyond King Conan, Schwarzenegger has also hinted at revisiting other major franchises, including Predator and Commando, suggesting Hollywood is increasingly open to reviving his classic action roles.
