Lionsgate has set a release date for John Rambo, a prequel film exploring the early years of the iconic action hero. The studio announced that the movie, which stars Noah Centineo in the title role, will hit theaters on June 4, 2027, according to a studio release. That date places it between two other major releases: Shawn Levy’s Star Wars: Starfighter and the live-action How to Train Your Dragon.
The film will trace the character’s origin story during his time in Vietnam, though Lionsgate has not released a detailed plot synopsis. Sylvester Stallone, who defined the role across five previous films, is not expected to appear on screen. He will serve as an executive producer instead. Stallone last portrayed Rambo in Rambo: Last Blood, a 2019 finale that he co-wrote. That film drew largely negative reviews. Centineo, who is also set to play Ken Masters in the upcoming Street Fighter adaptation, takes over the role this time. He will be joined by David Harbour as Major Trautman and James Franco, who has landed a supporting role in the John Rambo prequel film, in an unspecified part. Franco has kept a low profile in major studio productions in recent years.
Jalmari Helander, who directed Sisu, will helm the project. The screenplay comes from Rory Haines and Sohrab Noshirvani, the writing team behind Black Adam. The Russo Brothers, known for their work with Marvel, will also executive produce through their company AGBO. Lionsgate has not disclosed the film’s budget or released statements from the director or producers regarding their creative approach.
Production on the prequel concluded earlier this year, according to studio representatives. Lionsgate has not indicated whether Centineo will continue as Rambo in future installments.
