Universal faces a setback in the Jurassic franchise as David Leitch withdraws from directing the latest installment, revealing differences in creative visions with the studio.

Initially announced for a Summer 2025 release, Leitch’s departure has left the coveted director’s position open, given the franchise’s immense value and studio support.

Alongside Leitch, screenwriter David Koepp, known for Jurassic Park, is on board, and Steven Spielberg will produce the film.

Details on the Jurassic World project are scarce, but the studio hints at a fresh era, signaling no return for Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard. The film won’t feature original Jurassic Park characters, portrayed by Jeff Goldblum, Sam Neill, and Laura Dern.

The Jurassic saga, spanning six films, has been influential, with the first trilogy’s groundbreaking effects and the subsequent billion-dollar success of the Jurassic World films.

Leitch, recognized for directing hits like Bullet Train and Atomic Blonde, leaves Universal searching for a replacement director for the upcoming July 2025 release.

The studio describes the film as the start of a “new Jurassic era,” maintaining the franchise’s popularity for over 30 years. Jurassic Park’s impact extended beyond cinema into paleontology, sparking renewed interest and discoveries.

While Leitch’s departure adds uncertainty, Universal aims to secure a director to guide the iconic franchise into its next chapter, building on the legacy of the original Jurassic Park, available on Netflix.