As of now, there is no official confirmation or release date for Fantastic Beasts 4. The franchise, which initially planned for five films, has been “parked” by Warner Bros. following the underwhelming performance of Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore (2022). The third film grossed $407 million globally against a $200 million budget, making it the lowest-performing installment in the Wizarding World franchise. This financial outcome, coupled with controversies surrounding cast members and J.K. Rowling, has left the future of the series uncertain.
If Fantastic Beasts 4 were to happen, it would likely continue the storyline set up in the third film. The plot would focus on the escalating conflict between Albus Dumbledore (Jude Law) and Gellert Grindelwald (Mads Mikkelsen). Grindelwald, having lost the International Confederation of Wizards election, would likely retreat into hiding, setting the stage for his eventual legendary duel with Dumbledore. Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne) would remain central, possibly exploring more magical creatures while aiding Dumbledore in his fight against Grindelwald. The film might also delve deeper into Credence Barebone’s (Ezra Miller) fate, as his storyline was left unresolved.
The budget for a potential fourth film would likely remain in the range of $200 million, consistent with previous installments. However, Warner Bros. would need to carefully evaluate the financial viability of continuing the series, given the declining box office returns and mixed critical reception.
The Fantastic Beasts franchise has grossed over $1.8 billion globally across its three films, but its profitability has been questioned due to high production and marketing costs. The net worth of the franchise remains significant, but its future depends on whether Warner Bros. decides to invest in completing the planned five-film arc or shift focus to other Wizarding World projects, such as the upcoming Harry Potter TV series.
