Rian Johnson has always approached storytelling with a flair for reinvention, and the Knives Out franchise is proof that classic whodunits still have enormous cultural power. As the third film, Wake Up Dead Man, approaches its late-2025 release, discussions around Knives Out 4 have already ignited. What surprised fans most is Johnson’s rare admission of a dream casting choice — none other than Meryl Streep.

In an interview with IndieWire, Johnson broke his usual rule of avoiding actor wish lists. He openly expressed that Streep is the one performer he hopes to bring into Benoit Blanc’s world. Johnson praised her adaptable range, noting how seamlessly she could fit into a heightened murder-mystery setting. From Death Becomes Her to The Devil Wears Prada, Streep has proven she can handle eccentricity, elegance, satire and emotional grounding all at once — exactly the ingredients that power Knives Out.

Kerry Washington, part of the upcoming Wake Up Dead Man cast, has even vowed to encourage her former co-star to join the series. Hollywood often runs on personal endorsements more than formal negotiations, and Washington’s enthusiasm could become a pivotal factor in convincing Streep to step into the franchise.

The franchise’s “revolving door” casting strategy also makes the idea realistic. Each film introduces an entirely new ensemble, with only Daniel Craig’s Benoit Blanc returning. This structure offers actors the benefits of a prestige project without being trapped in multi-film commitments. For someone of Streep’s caliber, a one-film appearance in a playful, glamorous mystery is a tempting opportunity rather than a burden.

Meanwhile, Wake Up Dead Man continues the franchise’s tradition of social satire, shifting its focus toward religious power structures. With stars like Josh Brolin, Glenn Close and Andrew Scott, it’s clear Johnson is already comfortable working with Hollywood royalty — potentially preparing the groundwork for the “Streep chapter.”

Yet one of the biggest plot twists lies behind the scenes. Johnson’s $450 million Netflix deal concludes with this third installment, making Knives Out 4 a free agent. This opens the door to massive bidding wars between studios and streamers. Johnson has publicly shared his love for theatrical releases, so there’s a chance the next film may receive the big-screen treatment fans have been hoping for. If Johnson and Craig want Streep, they now have the negotiating leverage to demand the ideal rollout.

The franchise is shaping up to become one of the last great “adult blockbusters,” drawing audiences with dialogue, characters and mystery instead of spectacle. And if Streep steps into the mix, it won’t just elevate the story — it will cement Knives Out as a cinematic institution.

As fans await the release of Wake Up Dead Man, the excitement for what’s next only continues to build. The possibility of Streep joining Benoit Blanc for his next adventure is more than a casting rumor — it’s a sign that Johnson aims to push the franchise to new creative heights.