Fans of the “shagadelic” spy franchise finally have the answer they’ve been waiting decades for. Mike Myers has confirmed that Austin Powers 4 is happening, just days after reprising his iconic Dr. Evil character for a new Verizon commercial directed by the franchise’s original filmmaker, Jay Roach.
The update comes at a moment when nostalgia for the early 2000s comedy classic has been building steadily, and it gives longtime fans real reason to believe a fourth installment may finally move from rumor to reality.
Mike Myers Says “Yes” When Asked About Austin Powers 4
The confirmation arrived in a refreshingly casual way. While appearing on Trevor Noah’s World Cup Watch Party, Myers was asked point-blank by a fan whether Austin Powers 4 was happening. His response was simple and direct: “Yes.” He didn’t offer further details, but for a franchise that has spent years in development limbo, even a one-word confirmation from its star carries enormous weight.
This marks a notable shift in tone compared to previous years, when Myers had remained largely noncommittal about a sequel actually coming together, even as he repeatedly expressed affection for the character and franchise.
Dr. Evil Returns for Verizon’s “Menace Mobile” Ad
Just before that confirmation, Myers had already given fans a taste of what a returning Dr. Evil might look and sound like. He stepped back into the role for a new Verizon commercial titled “Dr. Evil Returns!,” in which the supervillain attempts to launch his own telecom venture called “Menace Mobile,” promising what he proudly calls the most confusing pricing and plans of all time.
The joke, of course, is that his henchmen quickly point out that needlessly complicated phone plans are already standard practice across the industry, undercutting his attempt at evil genius. Verizon uses the bit to position its new Simplicity Plan, which eliminates activation and upgrade fees, as the actual rebellious move in an industry full of fine print.
The Original Cast Reunites Alongside Jay Roach
What makes the ad especially significant for fans hoping for Austin Powers 4 is who showed up to make it. Myers was joined by several of his original co-stars, including Rob Lowe as Number Two, Seth Green as Dr. Evil’s son Scott, and Mindy Sterling as Frau Farbissina. All three reprised their roles alongside Myers, with the ad’s humor leaning heavily on the same family dynamic and comedic rhythm that made the films popular in the first place.
Behind the camera, the commercial was directed by Jay Roach, who helmed all three Austin Powers films. His involvement, paired with so much of the original cast reuniting on screen, has fueled speculation that the pieces may already be falling into place for a proper fourth movie rather than just a one-off advertising stunt.
A Sequel That’s Been Rumored Since 2008
Talk of a fourth Austin Powers film is far from new. Reports tracing back to 2008 indicated Myers had already begun work on a script, with New Line Cinema reportedly eager to move forward at the time. That early version was said to focus heavily on Dr. Evil and his son Scott, a dynamic that the new Verizon ad leans into once again.
In a 2024 interview, Myers reaffirmed his interest in revisiting the franchise, saying there are “absolutely” more stories left to tell. Jay Roach has echoed similar sentiments over the years, telling Deadline in 2020 that he wouldn’t rule out a fourth film, though it ultimately depends on Myers finding the right creative spark to bring Austin Powers 4 to life.
Why the Timing Might Finally Be Right
Myers has kept busy elsewhere, including a memorable return to Dr. Evil for a Saturday Night Live sketch poking fun at Elon Musk, but he hasn’t been tied down by an overwhelming slate of upcoming projects. He’s currently set to return to another beloved franchise with Shrek 5, and neither he nor Roach appear to be locked into other major commitments at the moment.
That combination, a willing cast, an available director, and a star who’s publicly confirmed interest, has many believing the long-gestating Austin Powers 4 could finally be inching toward production after years of false starts.
A Franchise Worth Revisiting
The original Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery introduced audiences to a groovy 1960s British spy who is cryogenically frozen and reawakened decades later to face off against his archnemesis, Dr. Evil. The franchise’s blend of spy-movie parody, slapstick humor, and quotable one-liners turned it into a defining comedy series of its era.
More than two decades have passed since the franchise’s last theatrical entry, Goldmember, but its cultural footprint hasn’t faded. Catchphrases, memes, and GIFs tied to Dr. Evil continue to circulate widely, a fact that brands like Verizon are clearly eager to capitalize on, and one that keeps the demand for Austin Powers 4 very much alive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Austin Powers 4 officially confirmed? Mike Myers has verbally confirmed that the film is happening, though no official studio announcement, release date, or cast list has been made yet.
Who directed the new Verizon Dr. Evil ad? The commercial was directed by Jay Roach, who also directed all three original Austin Powers films.
Which original cast members appeared in the Verizon ad? Mike Myers, Rob Lowe, Seth Green, and Mindy Sterling all reprised their roles as Dr. Evil, Number Two, Scott Evil, and Frau Farbissina respectively.
When was the last Austin Powers movie released? The most recent film, Austin Powers in Goldmember, was released in 2002.
Will Jay Roach direct Austin Powers 4 as well? This hasn’t been confirmed yet, but Roach’s involvement in the recent Verizon ad has fueled speculation that he could return for a fourth film.
Stay tuned, because the moment any official details on Austin Powers 4 drop, you’ll want to be among the first to know, so bookmark this page and check back soon!