'Indiana Jones 5': Phoebe Waller-Bridge To Star Opposite Harrison Ford In James Mangold's Sequel

Though it seemed at one point like “Indiana Jones 5” was going to be a priority project for Steven Spielberg and Harrison Ford a couple of years ago, the film ultimately has had a rough go trying to come together. Eventually, writers were changed, Spielberg handed the reins to filmmaker James Mangold, and everything now seems like it’s on track. And though there are folks that might be wondering why, exactly, we need a fifth ‘Indy’ film, the addition of cast member, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, might change their minds.

READ MORE: ‘Indiana Jones 5’: Writer David Koepp Explains Difficulty Getting Everyone To Agree On The Script

According to Lucasfilm, “Fleabag” star Phoebe Waller-Bridge has joined Harrison Ford in the upcoming “Indiana Jones 5.” The role is still not being revealed but it is said that Waller-Bridge will occupy the female lead opposite Ford in the film. And for anyone that is a fan of her work, this is obviously enough to pique their interest in a film that seems to be perhaps 10 years too late. In addition to the exciting news about Waller-Bridge joining the cast, the studio also took the time to announce something that many people just assumed—John Williams, the legendary composer, is returning to the franchise for the upcoming fifth installment. Even though it was largely expected, still knowing that Willims is returning is news to be celebrated.

“I’m thrilled to be starting a new adventure, collaborating with a dream team of all-time great filmmakers,” said Mangold. “Steven, Harrison, Kathy, Frank, and John are all artistic heroes of mine. When you add Phoebe, a dazzling actor, brilliant creative voice and the chemistry she will undoubtedly bring to our set, I can’t help but feel as lucky as Indiana Jones himself.”

READ MORE: ‘Indiana Jones 5’: Writer David Koepp Left Because James Mangold “Deserves A Chance” At The Script

As mentioned, “Indiana Jones 5” has been in development for years with various release dates announced and then delayed. More than three years ago, in January 2018, there were reports that ‘Indy 5’ was set to be Spielberg’s next film. Release dates in 2019, 2020, and 2021 followed. Writers came and went. And ultimately, Spielberg decided that James Mangold is the right director to bring the project to the big screen.

Since then, Lucasfilm has dated the film for July 29, 2022 and with the addition of Waller-Bridge, it appears that forward progress in the development of the film is finally being made.