Bob Gale, the co-creator of the beloved "Back to the Future" franchise, has a blunt message for fans eagerly awaiting a revival of the iconic sci-fi series: "F**k you." In a candid interview with Yahoo, Gale, who co-wrote and produced all three films with Robert Zemeckis, made it abundantly clear that there are no plans for a canonical continuation of the franchise.
Speaking backstage at the Saturn Awards, Gale expressed his frustration with persistent inquiries about a potential "Back to the Future 4." He stated, "People always say, ‘When are you going to do Back to the Future 4,' and we say, ‘F**k you.'" This strong stance comes at a time when reboots and long-awaited sequels are increasingly common in the film industry, often met with mixed reactions. Recent examples include "The Matrix Resurrections" and "Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny," both of which received lukewarm responses from audiences and critics alike.
The original "Back to the Future" film, released in 1985, follows high school student Marty McFly, who is inadvertently sent back in time by the eccentric scientist Doc Brown. While the first film became a cultural phenomenon and one of the most iconic sci-fi movies ever made, its sequels, released in 1989 and 1990, did not enjoy the same level of critical acclaim.
Despite the absence of new films for over three decades, the "Back to the Future" franchise continues to thrive in other forms. Its enduring legacy and influence are evident, with adaptations such as a Broadway musical keeping the spirit alive. Gale himself is not resting on his laurels; he has plans for a stage production for Royal Caribbean Cruises and is collaborating with Michael J. Fox, who portrayed Marty McFly, on a book about Fox's experiences with the franchise.