Rumours of Police Academy Reboot Spark Fan Debate
London, 11 January 2026 – The iconic Police Academy franchise, known for its slapstick comedy and memorable characters, continues to generate buzz amid speculation of a new film. While a 2018 tweet from star Steve Guttenberg suggested a sequel was in development, recent claims of an imminent release featuring original cast members have been debunked as fan-made fiction.
Franchise Background
The Police Academy series, which began in 1984 with Hugh Wilson’s directorial debut, follows a group of misfit recruits training to become police officers in an unnamed city. The film starred Steve Guttenberg as Carey Mahoney and grossed over $149 million worldwide on a $4.8 million budget, spawning six sequels and a television spin-off. The movies rely heavily on physical comedy, with characters like the gentle giant Moses Hightower (Bubba Smith) and the gun-obsessed Eugene Tackleberry (David Graf) becoming fan favourites.
Talks of a reboot have circulated since the early 2000s, with plans for an eighth film announced in 2007 but ultimately shelved. In 2014, comedians Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele were attached to produce a more grounded take, but the project stalled after their film Keanu underperformed. Guttenberg, who directed some sequels, has remained hopeful, stating in a 2018 tweet that a new film was “in a gift bag being readied”. However, as of 2026, no official production has been confirmed.
Recent Developments and Debunking
In August 2025, a viral poster claimed a new Police Academy film starring Guttenberg and Michael Winslow (Larvell Jones) was set for release that December. The artwork depicted the duo as co-commandants guiding new recruits. However, investigations revealed it was fan-made, with the creator admitting it was satire. Despite this, the post garnered significant attention, highlighting enduring fan interest.
Meanwhile, Peele has shifted focus to other projects, including the horror film Weapons (2025), which explores a character’s backstory. Key continues to work in voice acting and television, notably on Only Murders in the Building. The franchise’s producer, Paul Maslansky, has expressed willingness to revive it, but no concrete plans exist.
Key Facts: Police Academy Films Overview
| Film Title | Release Date | Director | Rotten Tomatoes Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Police Academy | 23 March 1984 | Hugh Wilson | 58% |
| Police Academy 2: Their First Assignment | 29 March 1985 | Jerry Paris | 32% |
| Police Academy 3: Back in Training | 21 March 1986 | Jerry Paris | 36% |
| Police Academy 4: Citizens on Patrol | 3 April 1987 | Jim Drake | 0% |
| Police Academy 5: Assignment Miami Beach | 18 March 1988 | Alan Myerson | 0% |
| Police Academy 6: City Under Siege | 10 March 1989 | Peter Bonerz | 0% |
| Police Academy: Mission to Moscow | 26 August 1994 | Alan Metter | 0% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a new Police Academy film really happening?
As of January 2026, there is no official confirmation of a new film. Rumours persist based on past statements, but recent viral posters have been debunked as fan creations.
Who are the main characters in the original Police Academy?
Key characters include Carey Mahoney (Steve Guttenberg), Larvell Jones (Michael Winslow), Moses Hightower (Bubba Smith), and Eugene Tackleberry (David Graf), among others.
What is the Police Academy franchise’s legacy?
The series is celebrated for its humour and has influenced comedy films, though later instalments received poor reviews. It remains a cult favourite for its ensemble cast and slapstick style.