According to the L.A. Times Mel Gibson has backed down from the role of Martin Riggs in Lethal Weapon 5. I would assume this would pretty much kill any chance of the film being made at this point (or at least being anything anyone would want to see).
It is believed that Gibson turned down the role due to Richard Donner not being involved in the film. Donner told the L.A. Times that he wanted to direct the film, and believed it had a strong story, but Warner Bros decided to use Joel Silver instead. Donner also told L.A. Times that he believes if he was involved he could have convinced Gibson to take the role.
Donner and Gibson have worked together on all 4 Lethal Weapon films as well as Conspiracy Theory and Maverick. Not a big surprise that trying to split up a good team would have this effect, and if Gibson is backing down for that reason then it’s good to know he stands up for his friends. Donner and Gibson will also be working together in the announced film Sam & George.
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