Obsession Star Michael Johnston in Early Talks for The Mum

Michael Johnston, the actor best known for his role in the streaming drama “Obsession,” has entered early negotiations to join the cast of the upcoming “The Mummy” sequel, according to individuals familiar with the discussions. While no formal agreement has been reached, the talks signal that Universal Pictures is moving forward with the long-gestating follow-up to its 2017 reboot of the classic monster franchise.

Details about the new film remain tightly under wraps. Neither the studio nor Johnston’s representatives have commented on the potential casting, and it is not yet clear which role the actor is being considered for. The project currently lacks a publicly attached director, a completed script, or a release date, suggesting that development is still in its formative stages. Johnston’s involvement, if finalized, would mark the first major casting announcement for the sequel.

Franchise Background

Universal’s “The Mummy” franchise has a storied history. The 2017 iteration, starring Tom Cruise and directed by Alex Kurtzman, was intended to launch a shared universe of classic monsters - often referred to as the Dark Universe - but the film underperformed critically and commercially, earning $409 million worldwide against a reported $125 - 195 million budget. After that setback, the studio shelved the interconnected plans and has since been reassessing how to reintroduce its iconic creatures.

A sequel has been rumored for years, with various writers and directors circling the project at different points. Reports earlier this year indicated that Universal was restarting development with a fresh creative direction, though no official logline or synopsis has emerged. The addition of Johnston, who is currently riding a wave of buzz from “Obsession,” suggests the studio may be aiming for a younger, character-driven approach rather than the star-driven spectacle of the first reboot.

Career Context

Johnston rose to prominence with his performance in “Obsession,” a psychological thriller series that premiered to strong reviews and drew attention for its intense, layered storytelling. The actor’s work in the series earned him a growing fan base and positioned him as a rising talent capable of handling complex, dark material - a skill set that aligns neatly with the horror-adventure tone of “The Mummy” films. Prior to “Obsession,” Johnston appeared in smaller roles across television and independent cinema, but the series marked his first major breakout.

Casting him in a tentpole franchise would represent a significant step up in profile, similar to how other genre actors have transitioned from acclaimed streaming projects to blockbuster film series. It would also give “The Mummy” sequel a lead whose recent work has generated critical heat, a contrast to the 2017 film’s reliance on established action stars.

What’s Next

Because talks are still in the early phases, no timeline has been set for a final decision. Universal is likely weighing multiple candidates and may not announce a full cast until production moves closer to a green light. Johnston’s schedule will also be a factor; he has other projects in development, though none have been officially confirmed to conflict with a potential “Mummy” shoot.

For now, the industry is watching to see whether this early negotiation becomes a full commitment. If it does, Johnston would join a legacy that includes Boris Karloff’s 1932 original, Brendan Fraser’s adventure trilogy from 1999 - 2008, and Cruise’s divisive 2017 take. How this sequel will connect to those earlier entries - or strike out on its own - remains unknown, but the casting of Johnston offers the first concrete hint of the creative direction Universal is pursuing.

As with any pre-production casting report, the situation is fluid. Deals can fall apart, and other actors may enter the mix. But Johnston’s name in the conversation gives the project a fresh focal point, suggesting that Universal is ready to resurrect its mummy with a new face leading the charge. More details are expected as development progresses.

Source: The Hollywood Reporter