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The Whip Handover: 10 Actors Rumored To Be The Next Indiana Jones (And Who Lucasfilm Really Wants)

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The legendary fedora and whip are officially back on the shelf, but not for long. As of December 2025, the future of the *Indiana Jones* franchise is the subject of intense speculation, with Lucasfilm and Disney reportedly quiet-planning a complete, post-*Dial of Destiny* reboot that will recast the iconic adventurer. Harrison Ford has definitively retired from the role, making the question of "Who's next?" the single biggest casting challenge in Hollywood, overshadowing even the search for a new James Bond. The disappointing box office performance of *Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny* in 2023, which resulted in significant financial losses, has ironically paved the way for a fresh start, allowing the studio to consider a full reboot rather than a direct continuation. While no official announcement has been made—with many expecting news at a future D23 Expo—the rumor mill is churning out a formidable list of actors being considered, or at least heavily discussed by fans and insiders, to take on the mantle of Henry Walton Jones Jr.

The Definitive Shortlist: 10 Actors Rumored for the Indiana Jones Reboot

The central challenge for Lucasfilm is finding an actor who can embody the unique blend of academic intelligence, rugged charm, and vulnerability that Harrison Ford perfected. The studio is reportedly letting the franchise "rest" for a period, but the casting process is already a hot topic in Hollywood. Here are the top contenders and persistent rumors for the new Indiana Jones.

1. Pedro Pascal

The Frontrunner Rumor: In late 2024 and early 2025, reports surged that Pedro Pascal was a top target for the role, with some outlets claiming Disney was actively eyeing him for a reboot. Pascal’s immense popularity from *The Mandalorian* and *The Last of Us* makes him a compelling choice, offering both blockbuster appeal and genuine acting credibility. His ability to play a charismatic, rugged, yet deeply human hero aligns perfectly with the Indy archetype. Casting Pascal would signal a major, high-profile commitment to the franchise's revival.

2. Glen Powell

The Modern Maverick: Powell, fresh off the success of *Top Gun: Maverick* and *Anyone But You*, represents the new generation of Hollywood leading men. He has the classic movie star looks, the comedic timing, and the undeniable charisma needed for a globe-trotting adventurer. He is frequently cited by fans and casting directors as a natural fit for a younger, more action-oriented Indiana Jones.

3. Chris Pratt

The Persistent Ghost of Casting Past: Chris Pratt's name has been linked to the Indiana Jones role for nearly a decade, even before *Dial of Destiny* was in production. His work in *Guardians of the Galaxy* and *Jurassic World* proved his ability to handle big-budget action and deliver witty, Han Solo-esque banter. However, Pratt himself has reportedly shut down the rumors, primarily out of respect for Harrison Ford’s strong public stance that "nobody" should play the character after him.

4. Phoebe Waller-Bridge

The Helena Shaw Question: While not a recasting of Indiana Jones himself, Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s character, Helena Shaw, was introduced in *Dial of Destiny* and was widely seen as a potential successor to the franchise. The movie’s ending positioned her to continue the adventure legacy. A reboot could pivot to a new character, but Lucasfilm may opt for a spin-off or soft continuation centered on Helena, making Waller-Bridge the de facto new lead.

5. Bradley Cooper

The A-List Veteran: Cooper is another high-profile name that surfaces in almost every major franchise casting discussion. He possesses the dramatic chops and the star power to anchor a massive tentpole film. While he may be older than some other contenders, his involvement would lend immediate prestige to the reboot.

6. Alden Ehrenreich

The Lucasfilm Connection: Ehrenreich has already stepped into one of Harrison Ford's iconic roles, playing a young Han Solo in *Solo: A Star Wars Story*. His history with Lucasfilm and his experience portraying a young, roguish adventurer makes him an obvious, if potentially controversial, candidate. The studio might see his prior experience as a positive, or avoid it to prevent further comparisons.

7. Chris Evans

Captain America's New Adventure: Post-Marvel, Chris Evans is actively seeking new, defining roles. He has the universal appeal and physical presence required for an action hero. While known for a more earnest demeanor, his comedic performances show he could easily handle the light-hearted tone of an Indiana Jones film.

8. Henry Golding

The Global Star: Golding, known for *Crazy Rich Asians* and *Snake Eyes*, brings a global perspective and a fresh face to the list. He has proven his capacity for both romantic comedy and high-stakes action, fitting the versatile requirements of the role. His casting would also reflect a modern, diverse approach to the classic adventurer character.

9. Idris Elba

The Dark Horse Action Star: A perennial favorite for major franchise reboots (including James Bond), Idris Elba has the gravitas, intensity, and physical presence to redefine the character. If Lucasfilm chooses to age up the character slightly from a "young Indy" concept, Elba would be an electrifying choice to lead a grittier, more mature adventure.

10. Mike Faist

The Breakout Talent: Faist, who gained significant acclaim for his role in *West Side Story* and is a rising star, represents a path toward casting a less established, but critically respected, actor. This strategy worked for a young Harrison Ford and could inject a raw, unexpected energy into the reboot.

The Great Recasting Debate: Ford’s Shadow and Franchise Strategy

The discussion around casting the next Indiana Jones is inseparable from the legacy of Harrison Ford. Ford has been famously protective of the role, stating that when he dies, Indiana Jones dies with him. He has also been clear that he will not be involved in any potential future television spin-offs or continuations. This strong stance presents a unique hurdle for Disney and Lucasfilm.

The Box Office Reality vs. The Legacy

The financial underperformance of *Dial of Destiny*—with reports suggesting a loss of over $134 million—makes the business case for a full reboot difficult but necessary. Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy has acknowledged the future of the franchise is being considered, but the mixed critical and commercial reception of the last film has forced the studio to proceed with extreme caution.

The prevailing strategy is to reboot the story entirely, likely setting it in a new time period with a new actor, rather than trying to directly replace Ford in the established timeline. This "James Bond" approach, where the character is recast but the core spirit remains, is seen as the only viable path forward. The goal is to announce a new direction, potentially at the D23 Expo, after a strategic period of silence to allow the sting of the last film’s box office to fade.

Topical Entities and LSI Keywords

  • Harrison Ford Retirement: The definitive end of the original era.
  • Lucasfilm Strategy: The studio's cautious approach after *Dial of Destiny*.
  • D23 Expo Announcement: The rumored venue for the official reboot reveal.
  • Helena Shaw Successor: The possibility of a female lead continuation.
  • Dial of Destiny Box Office: The financial catalyst for the full reboot.
  • The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles: A historical precedent for recasting/different timelines.
  • Steven Spielberg: The original director's influence on the franchise's tone.
  • George Lucas: The creator's vision for the character.
  • Chris Pratt Rumors: The most persistent, though debunked, casting rumor.

The Path Forward: A New Era of Archaeology

The next actor cast as Indiana Jones will not just be replacing Harrison Ford; they will be tasked with reinventing a cinematic icon for a new generation. The decision will define the franchise for the next decade. Whether it’s the rugged charm of Pedro Pascal, the classic star power of Glen Powell, or an unexpected choice, the casting will need to satisfy both the devoted fans of the original and a new, younger audience unfamiliar with the character's roots. The franchise is too valuable to Disney to remain dormant forever. While the official word remains elusive, the constant stream of high-profile casting rumors—from Pedro Pascal to Glen Powell—confirms that Hollywood is already preparing for the great adventure to begin anew. The only certainty is that when the next Indiana Jones steps onto the screen, they will be carrying the weight of one of cinema’s most beloved legacies.
casting indiana jones
casting indiana jones

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