Everything We Know About “Top Gun 3”, So Far

In May 2026, actor Jay Ellis provided a promising update regarding the much-anticipated third installment of the Top Gun franchise. The announcement follows the success of Top Gun: Maverick, which was a significant box office hit upon its release in 2022, earning an impressive $1.5 billion globally. Fans of the series are eagerly awaiting the next chapter, as Paramount Pictures has officially confirmed that Top Gun 3 is in the works.

Top Gun: Maverick, the legacy sequel to the classic 1986 film, brought Tom Cruise back to the iconic role of Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, alongside other familiar faces, including Val Kilmer, Glen Powell, and Miles Teller. The film revived interest in the franchise, leading the studio to launch into further projects. As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, discussions surrounding the third film began as early as January 2024, culminating in an official confirmation by Paramount in April 2026 during the CinemaCon event in Las Vegas.

During the April presentation, Josh Greenstein, co-head of Paramount Pictures, announced that the sequel was “officially in development” with a screenplay already underway. Greenstein also indicated that Tom Cruise and Jerry Bruckheimer, who produced the earlier films, would reunite for this latest entry. This development is seen as a positive indication for the future of the franchise, as fans look forward to what promises to be another thrilling adventure.

Speculation surrounding the cast has also been rife, with several stars from Top Gun: Maverick suggesting they would reprise their roles. Glen Powell, who portrayed Lt. Jake “Hangman” Seresin, hinted that filming was on the horizon during a podcast interview in July 2024. Similarly, Jennifer Connelly, who played Penny in the 2022 film, expressed her eagerness to return, stating simply, “I’ll be there. I’m ready.”

In a recent interview in May 2026, Jay Ellis remarked that the creative team was “making baby steps” towards realising the third film. He confirmed that a script exists and highlighted the enthusiasm shared by director Jerry Bruckheimer and Tom Cruise about the project. Ellis acknowledged the significant challenge that lies ahead, stating, “The gold standard is how do we push this film past what the last film was?” This ambition to innovate demonstrates the dedication of the team to elevate the franchise further while honouring its legacy.

Currently, details regarding the plot remain tightly under wraps. However, Cruise’s character is expected to take centre stage. Director Joseph Kosinski hinted at the ongoing narrative, indicating that there are still “more stories to tell” regarding Maverick. He noted that the script is being crafted by Ehren Kruger, who has experience from his work on the F1 film. Kosinski assured audiences that the project would progress only if they felt confident in the strength of the story.

Christopher McQuarrie, who co-wrote and produced Top Gun: Maverick, also suggested that the narrative for the third film is largely formulated. “It’s already in the bag,” he stated, suggesting a level of confidence in the storyline’s development. The script is in its final stages, although it may take some time before it reaches the big screen.

As for a release date, no specific timeline has been established for Top Gun 3. While fans are left speculating, they might find consolation in the re-releases of both the original Top Gun and Top Gun: Maverick in May 2026, coinciding with the franchise’s 40th anniversary. These films are also available for streaming on Paramount+, offering a chance for a nostalgic revisit before a new installment arrives.

In summary, the excitement surrounding Top Gun 3 is palpable, with both the cast and crew showing enthusiasm for the project. As they undertake the ambitious task of crafting a sequel that lives up to the legacy of its predecessors, fans are encouraged to stay tuned for further developments. With Tom Cruise firmly back in the cockpit, the return to the skies promises to be an exhilarating ride.