The Expendables Franchise Makes a Bold Return with an All-Female Spinoff
The Expendables franchise is once again making headlines, but this time, the focus is on a new generation of action heroes. Announced at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, The Expendabelles has officially returned after years of development challenges, bringing a fresh perspective to one of Hollywood’s most iconic action series. Supported by Lionsgate and two major production companies, the project aims to introduce a bold new chapter that draws inspiration from the decade known for frosted tips and Y2K anxiety.
While the 1990s set the stage for the original films, the casting of an all-female team marks the real turning point in this reimagined story.
A New Origin Story Set in the Late 1990s
The Expendabelles is now being developed as a standalone origin story set in the late 1990s. This version follows a new group of elite female operatives as they navigate the geopolitical tensions of the Y2K era. Producers Heidi Jo Markel and Glenn Gainor are leading the project under Eclectic Pictures and Hollywood Ventures Group, with Lionsgate providing essential support for the franchise.
This is a complete departure from the previous version of the project, which was developed around 2014 and involved female mercenaries in disguise to rescue a kidnapped nuclear scientist. That concept faced repeated creative hurdles and was ultimately shelved by 2022. The current revival completely discards that premise, instead focusing on a period-set origin story designed to expand the franchise’s mythology while standing independently.
A Standalone Story with New Characters
For fans of the original Expendables films, there is no need to rewatch them before experiencing The Expendabelles. The spinoff is built as a standalone story featuring entirely new characters, making it accessible to audiences who may not be familiar with the mainline franchise. However, the originals still offer valuable context about the franchise’s signature style—relentless action, ensemble camaraderie, and gleeful excess—which the new film aims to honor.
If you’re interested in catching up, all four mainline films—The Expendables (2010), The Expendables 2 (2012), The Expendables 3 (2014), and Expend4bles (2023)—are currently available on Netflix. They can also be rented or purchased on Amazon Video, Apple TV, and Google Play. With The Expendabelles still in its early development phase, there is plenty of time to binge the originals before the new chapter arrives.
Why the Original Films Matter
Although The Expendabelles is not dependent on the original films, watching them can provide a deeper appreciation for the franchise’s legacy. The original movies introduced a unique blend of action, humor, and star power, featuring some of the biggest names in Hollywood. These elements have become synonymous with the Expendables brand, and the new spinoff is expected to carry forward that spirit.
Fans are already curious about how the new film will balance homage with innovation. Will it stay true to the original tone, or will it take a more modern approach? As the project moves forward, these questions will likely shape the anticipation surrounding the release.
Final Thoughts
With its all-female cast and 1990s setting, The Expendabelles represents a bold step for the Expendables franchise. It promises to bring new energy and diversity to a beloved series while maintaining the core elements that made the original films so successful. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the franchise, there’s something for everyone in this exciting new direction.
