Universal’s The Mummy sequel just added a rising star to its lineup, and she’s no stranger to the genre. The franchise’s next chapter quietly cast a new lead alongside its returning fan-favorite ensemble.
Tara Emad joins Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz for The Mummy: Book of the Dead
Egyptian actress Tara Emad has joined the cast of Universal’s The Mummy: Book of the Dead, Dread Central exclusively reported. According to the outlet’s sources, she will play a lead role, though specific character details remain undisclosed. The film is currently in production.
Meanwhile, Emad has built her career across Egyptian film and television over the years. Her credits include Diamond Dust and the Arabic adaptation of Suits. Additionally, horror fans may recognize her from The Blue Elephant 2, where she portrayed a mermaid.
Notably, the casting news arrived shortly after Universal revealed the sequel’s official title. Book of the Dead brings back Brendan Fraser as Rick O’Connell and Rachel Weisz as Evelyn O’Connell. Furthermore, John Hannah, Oded Fehr, and Kevin J. O’Connor also return as Jonathan Carnahan, Ardeth Bay, and Beni Gabor respectively.
The sequel reportedly disregards The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor entirely. Instead, it connects directly to the first two films in the franchise. Michael Johnston and Numan Acar round out the previously announced cast alongside Emad.
Behind the camera, Radio Silence’s Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett are directing the project. The duo previously helmed Scream (2022) and Ready or Not. In addition, David Coggeshall, who wrote Orphan: First Kill, penned the screenplay for this installment.
Fraser has also discussed getting back into physical shape to reprise his iconic role once again. However, plot details for the sequel remain tightly guarded by the studio. Universal has set The Mummy: Book of the Dead for a theatrical release on October 15, 2027.