Ice Cube had an exciting vision for a fourth installment of the ‘Friday’ series, centering around a prison setting, which was ultimately shot down by Warner Bros. and New Line Cinema. On Cam Newton’s Funky Friday podcast, Cube unveiled the details behind this unique and humorous script that was left in the cold.
In his vision, the beloved characters Craig and Day-Day were to have a wild adventure after their dispensary gets hit by a flash mob, landing them behind bars. There, they dodge familiar faces like Deebo, Damon, and the Joker brothers, all linked to their past mischiefs. To add a twist, the plot included a stint in a rehab run by Smokey—Chris Tucker’s iconic character. However, Smokey’s rehab was not what it seemed.
Cube humorously described it as a ‘bullshit rehab’ where Smokey was more interested in sneaking off with his patients’ weed than actually helping them. While Cube found the humor in the setup, the studios didn’t share his vision. They vetoed the idea, stating that a setting in jail wasn’t funny or appealing. Cube responded with disbelief as he pointed out successful jail-based shows like ‘Orange is the New Black.’
Frustrations didn’t end there. Cube acknowledged ongoing creative differences with the studio, which seemed stuck on traditional notions rather than embracing his understanding of these beloved characters and their world. He expressed his irritation, feeling that the studios were hampering what ‘Friday’ fans truly wanted: authenticity and cultural connection.
The project also stalled due to the untimely death of key cast members like John Witherspoon, Tiny Lister, and A.J. Johnson. Overcoming such losses, Cube remained set on delivering a sequel. He felt passionately that the happiness and legacy of ‘Friday’ were worth fighting for.
Although this particular script won’t hit the screens, Cube reassured fans that another ‘Friday’ sequel is definitely in the works. He promised an updated version that stays true to its roots while introducing fresh characters. The aim is to capture the essence of Friday, a film that resonates with everyone’s weekend escapades.
Even though the original idea for ‘Friday 4’ was turned down, Ice Cube remains committed to bringing a worthy sequel to fans. He aims to blend nostalgia with new energy, ensuring this beloved franchise continues to capture the spirit of every Friday lived.
