Actress Sigourney Weaver makes one hard condition to reprise her iconic Alien role, which explains why she hasn’t returned in 27 years
It’s been nearly three decades since Sigourney Weaver last played Ellen Ripley, the fearless and courageous Nostromo officer who became the face of the franchise. Alien. Although many fans were expecting his return in recent times Alien: Romulusthe actress clarified that her return to the saga depends on a very specific condition, which explains her prolonged absence.
An unshakable condition for Ripley’s return
Sigourney Weaver has maintained a firm stance on her return to the universe of Alien: She won’t play Ripley again unless she gets a script that deeply moves her. In a recent interview with ExpirationThe actress stressed that she hasn’t found a script that makes her feel like she’s returning to her iconic character. “I haven’t read the script yet. [para una película de Alien] to say, ‘you have to do this,’” Weaver confessed.
This decision not to participate Alien: Romulus It might have been a wise move. The film, which follows the structure and some elements of the first Alien but with new twists, it managed to distinguish itself as an independent chapter that respects the legacy of the saga without the need to include Ripley.
Sigourney Weaver and her professional evolution
The truth is that Weaver has been able to diversify and step out of Ripley’s shadow, playing a variety of roles in different productions that have proven her versatility as an actress. From her memorable role in Ghostbusters to her recent participation The AvatarThe three-time Oscar nominee has made it clear that her career isn’t limited to science fiction or a single character.
The actress herself admitted in the interview that she loves playing new characters and exploring different genres, which may be one of the reasons she’s been so selective about the projects she takes on. While Ripley catapulted her to fame and left an indelible mark on pop culture, Weaver seems to have found satisfaction in challenging herself with different roles.
The Ghost of Alien 5 and the End of an Era
The fans of Alien You may recall that there was a time when Sigourney Weaver almost returned as Ripley in the planned film Alien 5a project that never saw the light of day. This film, which would have been directed by Neill Blomkamp (known for District 9), would have continued the story of Ellen Ripley, but was ultimately canceled. The production, tentatively titled Alien: XenoIt was scrapped by 20th Century Fox just as Ridley Scott came out Prometheusa prequel that explored the origins of the xenomorph creature.
The fact that Alien 5 The fact that it didn’t happen was a huge blow to many fans of the franchise, who wanted to see Ripley in action once more. However, the film’s cancellation also marked the end of an era for Weaver, who hasn’t appeared in the franchise since and seems to have left the character behind for good.
Ripley’s Future and Fan Nostalgia
In today’s era, where many franchises rely on nostalgia to attract viewers, the return of Ellen Ripley would have been an easy move for Alien: Romulus. However, Weaver chose not to appear in this ninth episode, making it clear that she is not interested in reprising a role simply to please fans.
That doesn’t mean Weaver is reluctant to honor her legacy. In fact, the actress has appeared in Ghostbusters: Beyonda film full of tributes to the original saga. However, in the case of AlienIt seems that the actress prefers that the character of Ripley remain in the past, respecting the impact she had at that time, but without reviving her unnecessarily.
Against Alien: Romulus currently in theaters and the original films of Alien Available on Hulu and Disney+, fans of the franchise will be able to relive classic Ripley moments. However, it’s clear that unless that great script Weaver is hoping for arrives, Ellen Ripley’s chapter in the story of Alien will remain closed.