Idris Elba addresses Knuckles' future after Sonic the Hedgehog 3, explaining whether he'd return as the echidna warrior for any future projects. Elba first debuted as the red echidna warrior in Sonic the Hedgehog 2, starting out as an enemy before realizing Dr. Robotnik (Jim Carrey) had been tricking him in order to get his hands on the Master Emerald. He returned to his role in the cast of Knuckles, a TV spinoff that dropped on Paramount+ in April 2024. The third theatrical film will also feature him in a prominent role on Team Sonic.
Speaking with ComicBook, Elba expressed interest in returning as Knuckles for any projects that are made after Sonic the Hedgehog 3. Joking about a possible fourth film, the actor said that he would be open to reprising his role in either a possible Sonic the Hedgehog 4, or even Knuckles season 2. However, as of writing, there has been no official confirmation about any follow-up projects. Check out what Elba had to say below:
Oh, wow, is there a Sonic 4? You know more than me, my guy. I would say I’d love to do it. Any chance to understand the characters a little bit more, in the different episodes … If [the filmmakers are] in, I’m down.
In the same interview, Elba expressed interest in co-starring in a Knuckles and Shadow spinoff with Keanu Reeves.
What Elba's Interest In More Sonic Projects Means For Knuckles' Future
He'll Likely Appear In Whatever Comes Next
The story of Sonic the Hedgehog 3will be focused on introducing Shadow (Keanu Reeves) to the main cast, alongside his quest for revenge after a tragic event 50 years ago. While Knuckles will be a primary character in the story, the focus will be on new elements, meaning he's unlikely to have as prominent a role as the previous film and his spinoff. However, his continued inclusion opens the door for a deeper exploration of his character, alongside his connection to other game characters that might be introduced later on.
A theater chain’s merch for the upcoming Sonic the Hedgehog 3 may have spoiled a Sonic character who is likely about to make their movie debut.
Although neither Sonic the Hedgehog 4 nor Knuckles season 2 have been announced, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 has been confirmed to feature two major post-credits scenes. This means the franchise is poised to expand beyond the upcoming film, with more concepts and characters likely getting introduced by the end of the film. Because of this, Elba will likely have ample chances to return as the red echidna, perhaps even with a continuation of his TV show in the process.
Our Take On Elba's Possible Return As Knuckles
The Franchise Might Just Be Getting Started
Since Elba's interested in coming back as Knuckles beyond Sonic the Hedgehog 3, it could mean the new movie is just going to be the start of the franchise's further expansion. While it's still unclear how the post-credits scenes will set up the future, they're undoubtedly going to include some core elements of the games that will be expanded on in future projects. With the new movie only about a week away from theaters, it won't be long until it becomes clearer what his place in the series' future is going to be.
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is the sequel to the 2022 comedy-adventure movie that featured the Blue Blur and his companions on an adventure to stop Dr. Robotnik from taking over the world. The new film sees the new antagonist Shadow the Hedgehog, arriving to cause trouble for the newly formed trio of heroes, Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles, as they adjust to their earthly lives.
Release Date December 20, 2024
Runtime 109 Minutes
Main Genre Adventure
Director Jeff Fowler
Writers Pat Casey , Josh Miller , John Whittington
Studio(s) Sega Sammy Group , Original Film , Marza Animation Planet , Blur Studio
Custom image by Nick Bythrow
English (US) ·