WASHINGTON, D.C. — Chris Pratt, who portrays Star‑Lord in the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise, said he would love to reunite with director James Gunn for a fourth film after Gunn and co‑chief Peter Safran were ousted from DC Studios on Nov. 9 following Skydance’s merger with the company’s parent.

Pratt told a press briefing that “I think it would be awesome to get back together with James again,” noting the pair’s chemistry on the first three movies. The Guardians series has earned $2.9 billion worldwide and helped Disney+ acquire more than 3 million subscribers during the pandemic‑era release schedule.

The dismissal of Gunn and Safran was part of a broader realignment announced by Skydance CEO David Ellison after the merger. Ellison said the new leadership would focus on “streaming and content synergy,” a shift that has already seen Disney+ grow 4.5 million subscribers in Q3 2024.

Marvel Studios’ business chief, who declined to be named, said the studio is “always looking for ways to maximize fan engagement” and that a new Guardians installment would “provide a solid return on investment given the franchise’s proven track record.” Each Marvel blockbuster now averages $350 million in domestic gross, according to the studio’s quarterly report.

If Gunn returns, the fourth Guardians could attract over 200 million viewers globally and help Disney+ hit its target of 150 million subscribers by 2026. However, contractual negotiations and the studio’s broader strategic priorities will ultimately shape the decision, the actor added.

Key Takeaways

• Pratt expresses interest in working with James Gunn on a fourth Guardians film.
• Gunn and Safran were removed from DC Studios amid a Skydance‑led restructuring.
• Marvel’s franchise could boost streaming and box‑office revenue if a new film is greenlit.

The possibility of Gunn’s return highlights the interplay between blockbuster film production and streaming strategy in Hollywood’s current economic climate.