Sigourney Weaver Considers ‘Alien’ Return After Reading Extraordinary Disney Script

Sigourney Weaver is contemplating a return to the iconic Alien franchise, nearly three decades after her last appearance as Lt. Ellen Ripley. This surprising development emerged during her recent appearance at New York Comic Con, where she suggested that the right script could entice her back into the role that made her a household name.

Insights from New York Comic Con

While Weaver once expressed no desire to reprise her role, she indicated that a screenplay penned by longtime collaborator Walter Hill has sparked her interest. “He wrote 50 pages of where Ripley would be now, and they are quite extraordinary,” she stated, reflecting on Hill’s longstanding association with the franchise since it debuted in 1979.

Discussion with Disney and Fox

Weaver revealed she had a meeting with executives from Disney and Fox about the potential project. Despite her previous reservations about returning, there seems to be new enthusiasm tied to Hill’s interpretation of the character.

• Sigourney Weaver first portrayed Ripley in Alien (1979).
• She has since reprised her role in Aliens (1986), Alien 3 (1992), and Alien Resurrection (1997).
• Walter Hill, a friend of Weaver’s, has written a promising screenplay draft.
• The latest installment, Alien: Romulus, was set between the events of the first two films.

Character Development and Themes

Weaver praised Hill’s work, stating, “It’s a very strong first 50 pages.” She added that this iteration of Alien would differ from past films. “It would not be running around airshafts; it would be a very different kind of Alien,” she explained, hinting at a more nuanced portrayal that includes Ripley’s strength, anger, and humor.

Reflection on Previous Comments

This new interest stands in contrast to Weaver’s earlier 2023 comments, where she declared, “that ship has sailed” following a disappointing attempt by director Neill Blomkamp to revitalize the franchise. At that time, she remarked, “I put in my time in space!” indicating a sense of closure regarding her character.

As fans eagerly await news about the next chapter of the Alien saga, Weaver’s contemplation of a comeback could mark an exciting evolution for the series and its beloved heroine. Only time will reveal if Ripley will once again confront the Alien menace.