Ridley Scott Was “Never Told Or Asked” To Direct ‘Blade Runner’ Or ‘Alien’ Sequels

Renowned filmmaker Ridley Scott, known for his foundational contributions to modern cinema, recently shared insights into his early career decisions and the evolution of his involvement with major franchises like Alien and Blade Runner. In an interview with Vanity Fair, Scott revealed he was not initially approached to direct sequels for Alien and Blade Runner, franchises that have since spawned multiple follow-ups directed by others.

Scott, who also directed the 1982 sci-fi classic Blade Runner, expressed a sense of missed opportunity in not retaining control over these franchises from their inception. “I’m the author of two franchises. Most directors at my level don’t let that stuff go,” Scott commented, reflecting on his early days in Hollywood. “But I did Alien as my second movie, so I didn’t have much choice. And Blade Runner was my third movie. So, I had no choice because I had very tough partners. It was kind of ‘Welcome to Hollywood.’” Despite his significant contributions, he was not given the option to helm the sequels, which were instead directed by James Cameron for Aliens, and Denis Villeneuve for Blade Runner 2049.

The director admitted to feeling outpaced in his early career, stating, “I mean, I should have done the sequels to Alien and to Blade Runner. You change over the years. At that time, I didn’t want to go through it again. So James Cameron came in — and then David Fincher — on Alien.” He returned to the Alien universe with 2012’s Prometheus and 2017’s Alien: Covenant. However, he regretted having to choose between directing Alien: Covenant and Blade Runner 2049, the latter he passed on to Villeneuve. “I was regretful, although he did a good job,” Scott said.

Scott candidly discussed the constraints he faced with the studios or producers, which allowed them to freely continue the series without his involvement. “You can imagine I wasn’t happy,” Scott disclosed, indicating his frustration at not being included in sequel discussions. He praised Villeneuve’s handling of Blade Runner 2049 but expressed regret over not directing it himself.

Despite these challenges, Scott remains actively involved with both the Blade Runner and Alien franchises. He is currently executive producing Blade Runner 2099, a live-action series set 50 years after Villeneuve’s sequel, and producing Alien: Romulus, which is directed by Fede Álvarez and set between the events of Alien and Aliens.

Additionally, Scott has returned to the director’s chair for Gladiator 2, the long-awaited sequel to his Roman epic Gladiator, which debuted 24 years ago. Set to release on 22 November, the film features a star-studded cast including Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Connie Nielsen, Joseph Quinn, and Denzel Washington.

Scott’s return to Gladiator showcases his ability to revisit and expand upon his works at a time of his choosing, reflecting on current societal themes he finds pertinent. “The leadership is in total chaos. We have demagogues — that’s a good word. The people who are in charge are out of their minds, and everyone is too afraid to contradict. That’s familiar ground right now,” Scott remarked, drawing parallels between historical Roman themes and contemporary issues.