Back to the Future Writer Rules Out Prequel, Sequel

The screenwriter of Back to the Future has made it clear: there will "never" be another addition to the franchise in any form.

Speculation grew after the creators of Cobra Kai, the TV series that continues the Karate Kid story, mentioned the possibility of a Back to the Future TV show.

However, Bob Gale, who co-wrote the original trilogy directed by Robert Zemeckis, firmly stated that the franchise will not be revived.

"I'm not sure why this keeps coming up!" he told People. "Do they believe repeating it enough will make us change our minds?"

"In every interview, people ask, 'Bob, when can we expect Back to the Future 4?' My answer is always: Never. 'What about a prequel?' Never. 'A spinoff?' Never. The films are great as they are. They may not be flawless, but as Bob Zemeckis often says, 'They are perfect enough.'"

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Of course, this is Bob Gale's personal stance. If Hollywood decided to move forward with a Back to the Future revival, corporate interests would likely have the final say. However, executive producer Steven Spielberg would also need to approve, and according to Gale, that is highly improbable.

"Unless some corporate giant threatened, 'Agree to this or we'll harm your family'—which, obviously, we wouldn't want—but seriously, it's not happening," he joked.

"Steven Spielberg would need to endorse it as well. Just as he has never allowed another E.T., he completely respects our wish to leave Back to the Future alone. He understands and has always supported that decision. Thank you, Steven."

Gale's remarks are consistent with his previous responses regarding potential revivals. In February, he had a blunt message for fans hoping for Back to the Future 4: "When people ask, 'When are you making Back to the Future 4?' We reply, 'F**k you.'"

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Released in 1985, the original film follows high school student Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) as he is accidentally sent back in time by the eccentric scientist Doc Brown (Christopher Lloyd). It became one of the most iconic sci-fi films ever made and inspired two sequels.