Prince's Plea Denied

Despite Prince William’s enthusiasm, there won’t be another Jason Bourne film, according to the series' frequent director Paul Greengrass. The Bourne franchise, featuring five films between 2002 and 2016, largely starred Matt Damon as the CIA assassin, except for 2012’s The Bourne Legacy, where Jeremy Renner took the lead. While Greengrass directed three of the films, including the final Jason Bourne in 2016, he seems ready to pass the torch to a younger filmmaker.

During a visit to Bafta's central London offices, Prince William playfully urged Greengrass to direct another Bourne movie, clasping his hands together and saying, “another Bourne, another Bourne.” Greengrass responded with a laugh and declined. Later, he explained: “Not for me, they need somebody younger, I’ve done my bit. But I hope they get somebody great and young to do it.”

In 2020, franchise producer Frank Marshall hinted at future Bourne projects with a fresh director, keeping the series’ legacy alive.

The event where William made his request also featured well-known British actors, such as Andy Serkis, Celia Imrie, and Stephen Merchant. Imrie shared her own journey with the prince, emphasizing the importance of helping the next generation, saying, “I was a chorus girl, I know how important it is to go up the ladder.”

Greengrass, a passionate supporter of Bafta's bursary program, praised William's efforts to provide young creatives with opportunities, like funding driving lessons to help new talent access film sets. Prince William, as Bafta president, has played a significant role in promoting initiatives that support emerging filmmakers, creating valuable pathways into the industry.