Descendants 4 Release Date
Disney has not officially announced a release date for Descendants 4 yet. However, judging by the release pattern of the previous movies, here are some predictions for when Descendants 4 might come out:
Summer 2023
The first 3 Descendants movies were released in the following years: Descendants (2015) Descendants 2 (2017) Descendants 3 (2019) If Disney continues the pattern of releasing a new Descendants movie every 2 years, then Summer 2023 would be the estimated timeframe. This would be 4 years after Descendants 3 premiered. Typically, Disney movies in franchises like to stick to a consistent release schedule so fans know when to expect the next installment. A summer 2023 target seems reasonable.
2024 at the earliest
However, it’s possible that production delays due to the pandemic may push the release back a bit. The earliest we could realistically expect Descendants 4 would probably be summer 2024. Film productions take time, and Disney would want to give the fourth movie the same marketing and promotion window as the previous films. So 2024 is the earliest, with 2023 being the most likely target if things proceed smoothly.
Will the Original Cast Return?
It’s highly probable that the core cast members from the first 3 Descendants movies will return for Descendants 4. Here’s what we know about the likelihood of seeing each character back:
Dove Cameron as Mal
As the lead role and fan favorite, it’s almost certain that Dove Cameron will reprise her role as Mal in Descendants 4. She has said in many interviews how much she loves playing Mal and being a part of the franchise. Unless something unexpected happens, we can expect to see more of Mal’s adventures in the fourth movie.
Cameron Boyce as Carlos (RIP)
Tragically, Carlos actor Cameron Boyce passed away in 2019 at a young age. Out of respect for his legacy, it’s unlikely that the character of Carlos would be recast with another actor. Disney may write Carlos out of Descendants 4 or mention that he’s gone in an emotional tribute. Boyce was beloved by cast and crew, so his absence will definitely be felt.
Booboo Stewart as Jay
Jay actor Booboo Stewart has been a great supporter of the franchise from the beginning. Unless his schedule conflicts, it’s a safe bet that Booboo will return to play the charming thief Jay one more time. His friendship with Carlos may even play a part in the plot.
China Anne McClain as Uma
Uma became a breakout character in Descendants 2. Actress China Anne McClain seems to relish the villainous role. As long as the story continues her rivalry with Mal, Uma is a lock to come back for Descendants 4.
Other Possible Returns
Supporting players like Evie, Ben, Audrey, and more original Isle kids also stand a high chance of returning. The actors have enjoyed being part of the Disney franchise, so unless their schedules conflict, we can expect much of the principal cast from the first 3 movies back for the fourth installment.
How Will the Story Continue?
With the first 3 Descendants movies establishing the ongoing plot between the villain kids and the heroes of Auradon, here are some possibilities for how Descendants 4 may continue the storyline:
A New Threat From the Isle
Since most of the major villains’ kids have turned good or been defeated at this point, Descendants 4 could introduce a new batch of troublemakers emerging from the Isle who pose a fresh problem. Maybe the barrier around the Isle starts to weaken or fail.
Internal Conflicts in Auradon
Now that the VKs have integrated, Descendants 4 may show new divisions or power struggles arising within Auradon as old prejudices die hard for some. Perhaps not all residents are happy with the new order.
A Return to the Isle
One of the VKs like Mal or Uma could willingly or unwillingly get sent back to the Isle, facing dangers and tests of identity now that they’ve experienced life outside. Their Auradon friends would try to save them.
Royalty Under Threat
Mal and Ben’s rule as the new King and Queen faces doubts or direct attacks. Can they defend Auradon while also protecting their people on the Isle? Dark forces allied with classic Disney villains could mar their reign.
Finding Home and Purpose
As characters like Evie, Jay and Carlos come into their own, the fourth film may explore their sense of purpose now that they’ve achieved acceptance. Where do they truly belong – good or evil, Isle or Auradon? Identity crises could ensue. Regardless of the specific direction, Descendants 4 is sure to advance ongoing character arcs while offering a new high-stakes challenge for the VKs to overcome through friendship, bravery and believing in goodness.
Possible Ways to Watch Descendants 4
When Descendants 4 does premiere, fans will likely have multiple viewing options to enjoy the movie:
In Theaters
As a major Disney franchise, Descendants 4 will almost certainly get a theatrical release. This allows the broadest audience to experience it on the big screen with great picture and sound quality. Past Descendants movies have had successful theatrical runs.
Disney+ Streaming
In the years following its theater debut, Descendants 4 will make its way to Disney’s streaming service Disney+ for online viewing. This makes the movie easily accessible any time for subscribers. Disney+ is where the first 3 films live now too.
Purchase on Digital/Blu-Ray
Once the home media window opens a few months after theaters, Descendants 4 will be available to own on digital platforms like iTunes, Vudu, Google Play and Blu-Ray/DVD. Fans can watch it whenever and add it to their collections this way. Special features are usually included on physical discs.
Free on Cable/Network TV
Months or potentially a year or more following its release, Descendants 4 may end up airing as part of a Disney Channel movie package or on sister network ABC. This offers a free viewing solution for those who missed earlier windows. So no matter your preferred format, there will be plenty of options to enjoy the fourth Descendants installment across all major platforms when it arrives!
Common FAQs About Descendants 4
Will More Original Characters Be Added?
It’s very possible that Descendants 4 will introduce some new characters, whether they are kids of other classic Disney villains coming over from the Isle or even original characters created just for the movie. Adding fresh blood keeps the franchise feeling exciting.
What Genre Will It Be?
Like the previous Descendants movies which blended drama, romance, comedy and fantasy adventure, Descendants 4 will likely continue in that same blend of genres to appeal to all ages. Musical elements may also return.
How Will It Tie Into Other Disney Properties?
Easter eggs or cameos connecting to hit Disney Channel shows or the wider Disney brand are quite possible. Descendants has already incorporated elements of Once Upon a Time, so future crossovers could happen. More mythology or timeline weaving with classic Disney films seems likely too.
Will It Be the Final Movie?
Unless the fourth film wraps up all major storylines in a definitive way, leaving no loose ends, it’s quite possible that the Descendants franchise may continue past Descendants 4 depending on its popularity and success. Disney could keep the world and characters going for even more installments.
Any Chance of a Spin-Off?
A potential Descendants spin-off focusing specifically on one or some of the characters in a new context is also feasible down the road once the core movie series concludes. A new generation on the Isle could also inspire extra stories. So in summary, while details are scarce now, Descendants 4 is highly anticipated and has many possibilities to deliver more magic, music and mischief for longtime fans!