Is it even possible to get through a holiday season without a rumor about another “Die Hard” movie? Well, yippee ki-yay, because that’s exactly what’s happening once again.
According to sources, this possible prequel film will follow a young John McClane.This would be a departure from the previously rumored project titled “McClane,” which was set to be a cross between a sequel and a prequel. That one would have followed the character, originally played by Bruce Willis across 5 movies, and other characters during two different time periods.
But this project was reportedly scrapped in 2019 after 20th Century was acquired by Disney.

At this point, the only logical way for the “Die Hard” franchise to go is a prequel. Considering Willis had to retire from acting in 2022 due to aphasia, which severely impacts his cognitive abilities. There were reports he had sold his likeness to a deepfake company, which could have made reprising the role possible even with his current health status, but those were debunked.

Another option would be for a film to pivot away from McClane’s character altogether. But does anyone really want a “Die Hard” movie without Mr. No Shoes? We think not.
Most fans are assuming if this does happen, it will be more like the graphic novel “Die Hard: Year One.” The series ran from 2009-2010, and took place in 1976. It tells the story of young McClane when he was starting as a rookie cop in New York. There were even some rumblings of this being adapted before the “McClane” project began being developed.
[Editor’s Note: …what if this rumored project focused on another character, like Hans Gruber? Imagine it!]
While this current iteration of a prequel is still highly speculative, we all know Hollywood will develop any well-loved IP into the ground. Especially when it is one as evergreen as “Die Hard.” We’ll keep you posted on updates if/when they become available.
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