Sigourney Weaver Says New Ripley Script Has Her Reconsidering an ‘Alien’ Return

May 17, 2026

Sigourney Weaver revealed she has read part of a new script centered on Ripley, written by longtime collaborator Walter Hill. The actress said the story explores how society treats someone who once sacrificed everything to protect humanity before being forgotten. Although Weaver previously believed Ripley’s journey had ended, she admitted the project feels timely and compelling enough to revisit.

Sigourney Weaver may not be finished with Ripley yet. A new script changed the conversation.
Sigourney Weaver may not be finished with Ripley yet. A new script changed the conversation.

Sigourney Weaver revealed she has been reading a potential new story centered on the iconic “Alien” character Ripley.

The script came from a familiar collaborator. Walter Hill returned with a new idea.
The script came from a familiar collaborator. Walter Hill returned with a new idea.

Weaver said longtime collaborator Walter Hill wrote the project currently under discussion.

The story imagines Ripley later in life. That perspective caught her attention.
The story imagines Ripley later in life. That perspective caught her attention.

According to Weaver, the concept explores where Ripley would be emotionally and socially years after her past sacrifices.

The themes feel surprisingly current. Recognition and isolation sit at the center.
The themes feel surprisingly current. Recognition and isolation sit at the center.

The script examines how society treats heroes after they are no longer needed publicly.

For years, the ending felt complete. Now she is reconsidering that view.
For years, the ending felt complete. Now she is reconsidering that view.

Weaver admitted she once believed Ripley’s journey had already reached its natural conclusion.

This version feels different. The emotional angle stands out strongly.
This version feels different. The emotional angle stands out strongly.

The actress described the new take as authentic, thoughtful, and relevant enough to revisit seriously.

Studio meetings have already happened. The discussions moved beyond reading pages.
Studio meetings have already happened. The discussions moved beyond reading pages.

Weaver confirmed she has spoken with executives about the possibility of continuing the story.

The larger ‘Alien’ universe keeps growing. New projects are already expanding it.
The larger ‘Alien’ universe keeps growing. New projects are already expanding it.

Weaver also praised recent franchise entries, including “Alien: Romulus” and the series “Alien: Earth.”

A new generation is stepping in. She feels connected to that transition.
A new generation is stepping in. She feels connected to that transition.

The actress said she appreciates the younger performers now carrying the franchise forward.

Ripley’s future remains uncertain. But the door is no longer closed.
Ripley’s future remains uncertain. But the door is no longer closed.

Weaver’s comments suggest a return to one of science fiction’s most iconic characters may still be possible.