'Bad Boys 3' cast news, release date: Will Smith, Martin Lawrence set to return in 2017?

It's been over a decade since the last "Bad Boys" movie was released by Sony Pictures, and fans of the buddy cop comedy were left with a void to fill. Luckily, "Bad Boys 3" is here to save the day.

The project is still currently in development, however, there have already been several speculations (plus a few confirmed details) about the sequel.

The first two films, "Bad Boys" (1995) and "Bad Boys II" (2003), proved to be very successful in the box office. According to Box Office Mojo, the first film grossed over $141 million worldwide and the second film, over $273 million.

Both films were directed by Michael Bay and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer. "Bad Boys" was Bay's directorial debut and helped launch his career in the film industry.

Sony has reportedly included "Bad Boys 3" among the numerous films slated for a 2017 release. The third installation to the "Bad Boys" franchise has been hinted at by actors Will Smith and Martin Lawrence a few times prior to its official announcement.

According to Collider, Smith teased fans regarding the film while in the middle of an interview with Beats 1 Radio. He mentioned that the sequel will likely be released within the next 12 to 16 months. And sure enough, the film's official release date fell under Smith's prediction.

It is unknown yet whether the two actors, Smith and Lawrence, will reprise their respective roles as detective Mike Lowrey and detective Marcus Burnett in the third film, but rumors have certainly plagued the movie's casting.

However, some reports believe Lawrence to be on board. Should Smith choose not to return as his character, it is likely that he will serve as one of the producers.

And just in case a third film is not enough to satisfy fans, Sony has also planned for a fourth film, "Bad Boys 4," and it is reportedly aiming for a 2019 release.

"Bad Boys 3" is scheduled to be released worldwide on Feb. 17, 2017.

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