George Clooney Confirms Ocean's 14 is Officially Happening with Original Stars Back in Action

Get ready for another big score, everyone! George Clooney has officially spilled the beans about Ocean's 14. This highly anticipated sequel to the famous heist trilogy received its budget approval from Warner Bros. Filming is set to begin sometime next year. This means we can expect the gang back on screen in about nine or ten months from October 2025.

Clooney himself, the mastermind behind Danny Ocean, confirmed that many of his original co-stars plan to return. This includes Brad Pitt as Rusty Ryan, Julia Roberts as Tess Ocean, Matt Damon as Linus Caldwell, and Don Cheadle as Basher Tarr. The actor even mentioned having dinner with Julia Roberts recently. He noted how great it is that they all remain good friends, making the chance to work together again a true pleasure.

This news follows years of speculation. Clooney hinted in 2023 about a "really good script" for another Ocean's movie. Now, the budget is greenlit, and scheduling is the only item left before production begins. Director David Leitch, known for his work on The Fall Guy and Bullet Train, will reportedly direct this new installment.

George Clooney Confirms the Big Heist is Back On for Ocean's 14

The waiting game is over. George Clooney recently confirmed that Ocean's 14 is moving forward. He shared with E! News that Warner Bros. approved the budget, marking a significant step for the film. Clooney added that the team is now working on scheduling. He expects shooting to start in about nine or ten months, meaning the cameras will likely roll in 2026. This announcement comes 18 years after Ocean's Thirteen, making fans eager for the return of Danny Ocean and his crew.

This movie follows the original trilogy: Ocean's Eleven from 2001, Ocean's Twelve in 2004, and Ocean's Thirteen in 2007. Steven Soderbergh directed all three of those films. There was also the 2018 spin-off, Ocean's 8, which focused on a new female crew led by Danny Ocean's sister, Debbie Ocean. Clooney's confirmation solidifies that the main storyline continues, bringing back the characters many fans know and love.

The Original Crew is Lining Up for a Major Reunion

George Clooney made it clear that key actors from the original trilogy plan to join him in Ocean's 14. Brad Pitt is set to return as Rusty Ryan, Danny's trusted second-in-command. Julia Roberts will reprise her role as Tess Ocean, Danny's wife. Roberts' involvement is notable because she did not appear in Ocean's Thirteen. Matt Damon will also be back as Linus Caldwell, the somewhat nervous con man. Don Cheadle is expected to return as Basher Tarr, the explosives expert known for his distinctive accent.

Clooney expressed his happiness about working with these long-time friends again. He told E! News that he recently had dinner with Julia Roberts and that the cast members remain close. This camaraderie suggests the on-screen chemistry fans enjoyed in the earlier films will still be present. The return of these major stars guarantees a strong ensemble, a hallmark of the Ocean's franchise.

A "Going in Style" Approach to the Next Big Heist

When asked about the script for Ocean's 14, George Clooney offered a clue about its plot direction. He compared the idea to Going in Style, the 1979 film. That movie follows three senior citizens who decide to rob a bank out of boredom in their retirement. This comparison suggests that the characters in Ocean's 14 might be older, wealthy, and perhaps a bit restless. They could seek another heist not out of financial need, but for the thrill and challenge.

This angle could bring a fresh perspective to the franchise, exploring themes of aging and legacy within the exciting world of elaborate heists. The original Going in Style starred George Burns, Art Carney, and Lee Strasberg. A 2017 remake featured Morgan Freeman, Michael Caine, and Alan Arkin. The Ocean's 14 cast, though not quite at the age of the original Going in Style characters, could certainly capture that spirit of experienced individuals looking for one more adventure.

Addressing Danny Ocean's "Death" and Debbie's Return

One major plot point that Ocean's 14 will need to address comes from the 2018 spin-off, Ocean's 8. In that film, Sandra Bullock's character, Debbie Ocean (Danny's sister), visits Danny's grave. The gravestone indicates that Danny Ocean passed away in 2018. This revelation surprised many fans. Most speculated that his death was a clever hoax, a move perfectly in line with the Ocean crew's style.

The return of George Clooney as Danny Ocean in Ocean's 14 confirms this theory. His "death" will certainly be a topic for the new movie. It also creates a strong possibility for Sandra Bullock to appear as Debbie Ocean. Bringing these two characters together would not only clarify the narrative but also add another A-list star to an already packed cast. This would make Ocean's 14 one of Hollywood's most star-studded productions, a grand reunion for both fans and characters.

Familiar Faces Who Might Be Bored Enough to Join the Action

Given the Going in Style premise, it makes sense to consider other veteran characters returning. Elliot Gould as Reuben Tishkoff is a strong candidate. Gould, now 87, appeared in all three original films and the Ocean's 8 spin-off. Reuben, a wealthy casino owner, could easily fit the profile of a retired, successful individual seeking excitement. The original trilogy concluded with the crew buying property for Reuben to build his own casino. He might find his successful casino life too predictable and want to join Danny for another heist, perhaps for personal reasons or just the thrill of it.

Andy Garcia's Terry Benedict also presents an interesting possibility. Benedict served as the initial target in Ocean's Eleven, pursued the crew for repayment in Ocean's Twelve, and even funded their heist in Ocean's Thirteen. His complex, often volatile, history with Danny Ocean could add an intriguing layer to the new story. Benedict, like the others, might be bored in his later years, despite his wealth, and decide to get back into the action. These characters could all bring their unique histories and motivations to a new heist adventure.

Passing the Torch: New Blood for the Ocean Crew

The original Ocean's trilogy featured many memorable characters. Sadly, two actors from that crew have passed away. Carl Reiner, who played Saul Bloom, died in 2020 at 98. Bernie Mac, who played Frank Catton, passed away suddenly in 2008 at just 50. To honor these actors and their characters, the new film could introduce new characters linked to them, potentially younger family members.

ScreenRant suggests that Alex Wolff could play Saul Bloom's son. Saul mentioned a woman he was dating in Ocean's Eleven. Perhaps he settled down and had a child who later seeks out the Ocean crew. This would provide a natural way to inject youth into the cast. Similarly, Caleb McLaughlin from Stranger Things is suggested to play Frank Catton's son. The personal lives of the crew members were rarely explored in the original films, leaving room for new stories. Bringing in younger characters to follow in their fathers' footsteps could offer a great tribute and fresh energy to the team.

David Leitch Steps Up to Direct the Latest Ocean's Adventure

The directorial duties for Ocean's 14 will reportedly fall to David Leitch. Variety reported in January 2025 that Leitch was boarding the crime caper sequel. Leitch is a director known for his action-packed films. His work includes John Wick 2, Bullet Train, and The Fall Guy. His background suggests that Ocean's 14 could feature high-energy sequences and stylish action, perhaps even more than the original trilogy.

Steven Soderbergh directed the first three Ocean's films, establishing their signature style. Leitch taking the helm indicates a new vision while hopefully maintaining the charm and cleverness fans expect. His prior collaboration with Brad Pitt on Bullet Train also suggests a good working relationship with the returning cast. Fans will be curious to see how his directing style shapes the next chapter of the Ocean's franchise.

Beyond Ocean's 14: The Prequel Film's Status

It is important to remember that Ocean's 14 is not the only Ocean's project in the works. A separate prequel film is also in development. This prequel is set in 1960s Europe, specifically Monte Carlo. Initially, Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling were reportedly attached to star as Danny Ocean's parents. However, recent reports indicate that Bradley Cooper is in talks to replace Gosling in the prequel. Jay Roach is attached to direct this film, with Carrie Solomon writing the script.

George Clooney himself joked about the idea of the "Barbie" actors playing his parents, acknowledging the humor in the casting. This prequel will explore a different era of the Ocean family's history, showcasing how their criminal lineage began. While an exciting prospect, this prequel remains distinct from Ocean's 14. The two projects will offer different stories within the same heist universe, expanding the franchise's scope in multiple directions.

The Ocean's Crew is Coming Back for a Thrilling New Chapter

The confirmation of Ocean's 14 marks an exciting time for fans of the heist film series. George Clooney's return as Danny Ocean, alongside Brad Pitt, Julia Roberts, Matt Damon, and Don Cheadle, promises a reunion of beloved characters. The "Going in Style" concept suggests a fresh angle, with the seasoned crew potentially seeking thrills rather than riches. The movie might also address Danny Ocean's "death" from Ocean's 8, possibly bringing Sandra Bullock's Debbie Ocean into the fold. Adding new faces to honor past cast members could refresh the team. With David Leitch directing, fans can expect stylish action and a clever plot.

As filming begins next year, more details about this highly anticipated sequel will surely emerge. The prospect of these iconic characters returning for another big score, almost two decades after their last adventure, is something to look forward to. Get ready for more elaborate plans, witty banter, and unexpected twists from the Ocean crew.