Could Laurence Fishburne's absence as Morpheus in The Matrix 5 change the franchise forever? The iconic actor recently expressed hesitation about reprising his role, leaving fans and critics alike wondering what the future holds for this beloved sci-fi saga. With The Martian screenwriter Drew Goddard stepping in to helm the project, following the Wachowski sisters' departure, the stakes feel higher than ever. But here's where it gets controversial: Fishburne’s return isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about whether the new film can live up to the legacy of a series that redefined sci-fi, action, and fantasy genres.
During a heartfelt reunion at New York Comic Con 2025, Fishburne candidly shared his thoughts: “It depends on how good it is, really. If it’s great, then yeah, if it makes sense. I don’t know if it makes sense,” he admitted. His uncertainty isn’t just about his role—it’s about the soul of The Matrix itself. Fishburne also revealed that he had reached out to Lana Wachowski about joining The Matrix Resurrections, but the collaboration never materialized. “I said ‘Thank you very much,’ and Lana said, ‘Thank you very much, I’ll think about it,’ and that was that,” he recalled, leaving fans to wonder what could have been.
And this is the part most people miss: Fishburne’s Morpheus wasn’t just a character—he was a cultural phenomenon. During a panel moderated by Josh Horowitz, Fishburne and Joe Pantoliano reflected on the film’s impact, emphasizing how The Matrix has influenced generations of filmmakers. “There’s no sci-fi, action, or fantasy movie after The Matrix that hasn’t been shaped by it,” Fishburne noted. “It’s so pervasive that people forget where it all began. No The Matrix, no MCU—it just wouldn’t look the same.”
But here’s the bold question: Can The Matrix 5 truly honor its legacy without Fishburne’s Morpheus? Some argue that the franchise has already evolved beyond its original roots, while others believe his absence could leave a void that no amount of special effects can fill. What do you think? Is Fishburne’s hesitation justified, or is it time for the franchise to move on? Let’s spark a debate in the comments—because whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, this is one conversation you won’t want to miss.
