Paramount Pictures is signaling a major shift in its casting and hiring philosophy, proving that in 2026, the “Me Too” era’s experimental exile might be coming to an end. The studio has reportedly tapped Max Landis—a screenwriter who has been effectively sidelined since 2017—to develop a new installment of the G.I. Joe franchise.
This move isn’t just a one-off casting choice; it’s part of a burgeoning trend where major studios are beginning to reintegrate figures who were once deemed “unhireable” due to personal controversies and abuse allegations.
The New “Real American Heroes”?
The upcoming G.I. Joe project appears to be a multi-pronged development effort. According to industry reports, Paramount is currently juggling two distinct visions for the toy-based action flick:
- Max Landis: The writer behind Chronicle and Bright is penning one script.
- Danny McBride: The actor and writer (known for Eastbound & Down) is developing a separate version.
Insiders suggest these two scripts might eventually be fused into a single narrative, though the involvement of Landis has already ignited fierce debate online.
A Pattern of “Comeback” Contracts
Paramount’s decision to hire Landis follows a string of similar “redemption” hires across the industry. The studio has recently become a sanctuary for creators looking to move past their “canceled” status:
| Figure | Past Controversy | Recent Paramount/Partner Project |
| Max Landis | Allegations of sexual and emotional abuse (2017–2019). | New G.I. Joe Feature |
| Brett Ratner | Multiple sexual misconduct allegations. | Rush Hour 4 (Distribution deal) |
| Jonathan Majors | Conviction for domestic harassment/assault. | Untitled project (via Daily Wire partnership) |
The Landis Legacy and the Fallout
Max Landis, the son of legendary director John Landis, was once one of the most sought-after voices in Hollywood. However, his trajectory cratered starting in 2017 when actress Anna Akana and others leveled public accusations of sexual assault and “inhumane” behavior.
In a 2019 Daily Beast report, eight different women detailed accounts of emotional and sexual abuse. While Landis never faced criminal charges, he was dropped by his management and largely vanished from credits—until now. In a 2023 apology video, Landis admitted to being a “toxic partner” but stopped short of confirming specific criminal allegations.
The Wider Industry Context
Paramount isn’t the only entity opening its doors. The landscape of 2026 shows a clear divide in how “cancellation” is handled:
- Mainstream Studios: Taking calculated risks on established talent like Landis and Ratner to revive “sure-fire” franchises.
- Alternative Media: Outlets like The Daily Wire are actively recruiting ostracized stars such as Gina Carano and Roseanne Barr, positioning themselves as a “cancel-free” alternative to traditional Hollywood.
What This Means for G.I. Joe
For fans of G.I. Joe, the focus remains on whether the brand can finally find its footing after several lukewarm cinematic outings. However, the shadow of Landis’s personal history ensures that the film’s production will be under a microscope long before a single trailer drops.
