The Hitman's Bodyguard Franchise: Current Status, Streaming Availability, And Future Outlook

The Hitman's Bodyguard action-comedy franchise remains a prominent fixture in digital entertainment as audiences continue to revisit the explosive chemistry between Ryan Reynolds and Samuel L. Jackson. Directed by Patrick Hughes, the original 2017 film and its 2021 sequel, The Hitman's Wife's Bodyguard, defined a specific brand of chaotic buddy-comedy that heavily relies on rapid-fire banter and high-octane set pieces. As the entertainment industry moves through 2026, the property maintains a steady footprint across major subscription video-on-demand platforms, drawing consistent viewership metrics from fans of modern action cinema.

Context and Background

The genesis of The Hitman's Bodyguard began with a screenplay written by Tom O'Connor, which initially appeared on the prestigious Hollywood Black List in 2011 before Lionsgate acquired and developed the project. Upon its release in August 2017, the first film surprised box office analysts by outperforming summer blockbusters, grossing over $176 million worldwide against a modest budget. The narrative formula—pairing a high-strung elite protection officer (Reynolds) with a notoriously uncooperative international assassin (Jackson)—proved immediately bankable.

Capitalizing on this momentum, the studio fast-tracked a sequel. The Hitman's Wife's Bodyguard expanded the ensemble by placing Salma Hayek’s volatile character at the center of the chaos, shifting the dynamic into a chaotic trio. While critical reception varied between the gritty tone of the first film and the cartoonish escalation of the second, the franchise cemented itself as a defining showcase for modern star-driven action comedy. Both films frequently cycle through top-ten streaming charts globally, proving that the IP retains significant residual value for its parent studio.

Impact and Utility

For pop culture enthusiasts, action film buffs, and casual viewers looking for high-energy entertainment, the franchise serves as a reliable staple for home viewing. The films are widely accessible across major streaming libraries, digital rental storefronts, and physical media formats including 4K UHD and Blu-ray. Understanding the timeline and continuity of the series helps viewers navigate the specific comedic callbacks and character arcs that span across both installments, particularly the evolving relationship between Michael Bryce and Darius Kincaid.

Beyond consumer utility, the franchise represents a masterclass in modern action-comedy marketing, heavily utilizing the off-screen camaraderie and social media presence of its principal cast. The dynamic established between Reynolds and Jackson has influenced subsequent casting strategies in other studio action properties, proving that contrasting comedic personas remain a viable formula for counter-programming against superhero fatigue.

What's Next

As of August 2026, Lionsgate has not officially announced a greenlight for a third installment, though executives have periodically expressed interest in expanding the cinematic universe. Given the busy production schedules of Ryan Reynolds, Samuel L. Jackson, and Salma Hayek, any potential continuation remains speculative. In the interim, fans can expect the property to remain a staple of streaming rotations and cable syndication. Industry observers continue to monitor whether the studio will eventually pursue a soft reboot or a television spin-off to capitalize on the enduring popularity of the core characters.