Laurence Fishburne on Not Returning for The Matrix 4: “I Offered, They Didn’t Respond Well”

The original Morpheus reflects on being left out of The Matrix Resurrections and weighs in on possible return for the fifth film, depending on who’s involved.

Los Angeles, April 4:
Veteran actor Laurence Fishburne, known globally for his iconic portrayal of Morpheus in The Matrix trilogy, has opened up about his absence from the franchise’s fourth installment — and hinted at a possible return, depending on the right conditions.

Appearing on The View Thursday, Fishburne revealed that he actively offered to return for 2021’s The Matrix Resurrections but was turned down.

“I offered my services to the fourth Matrix, and they didn’t respond well to that,” Fishburne told the hosts. “It’s not like I didn’t say, ‘I’d like to offer my services.’ I did.”

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🎥 Why He Wasn’t in The Matrix Resurrections

Despite being a central figure in the original trilogy directed by the Wachowskis, Fishburne was not invited back for the 2021 sequel, as he confirmed in a 2020 interview with New York Magazine.

The character of Morpheus was reimagined in the film and portrayed by Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, though archival footage of Fishburne was briefly featured.

“For whatever reason, it didn’t happen,” Fishburne said of the decision to recast.

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🔮 Could Fishburne Return for The Matrix 5?

When asked if he’d be open to appearing in the upcoming fifth film in the franchise, the Oscar nominee remained cautiously optimistic.

“It depends on who was involved, how well the script has been written,” he said, adding that his involvement would also depend on whether the studio offers him a role this time around.

While The Matrix 5 is still in early development, Keanu Reeves is expected to return as Neo. The original trilogy was directed by Lana and Lilly Wachowski, while Lana Wachowski helmed the fourth film solo.

As of now, no official announcements have been made regarding Fishburne’s possible casting.

“We’ll see,” the actor said, leaving the door open — even if slightly.

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🎭 Background: Fishburne as Morpheus

• Starred in The Matrix (1999), The Matrix Reloaded (2003), and The Matrix Revolutions (2003)
• Played a pivotal role in mentoring Neo and defining the visual and philosophical tone of the trilogy
• Has become one of the franchise’s most iconic characters, both narratively and culturally