Although both THE MATRIX RELOADED and THE MATRIX REVOLUTIONS swung for the fences when it came to subtext and existential philosophy, it fell short of the mark. While most audiences respected the unprecedented action and visual effects, the story itself came off convoluted and confusing. Having said that, there were several moments from both films that, in a vacuum, are actually pretty interesting. One of those moments involves actor Lambert Wilson who plays the Merovingian, an ancient program that runs a smuggling ring for exiled data. Well if you loved Wilson's character you are in luck because it appears as though he's coming back.
In a recent interview with the French outlet Allocine, Wilson discussed the upcoming fourth MATRIX movie from Lana Wachowski. According to Wilson at this point he's planning to return for the third sequel. I say "planning" for two reasons. The start date for THE MATRIX 4 remains fluid. Wilson devotes a lot of his time to his singing career and humanitarian efforts. Consequently, his schedule may not allow him to participate. Secondly, the Merovingian is in Wachowski's script currently, however the script for the fourth film is constantly evolving, so the Merovingian's presence is subject to change.
While I would love for Wilson to return for the fourth film, I wouldn't be upset if the Merovingian character was recast. It wouldn't be the first time something like this has happened in the MATRIX franchise. Actress Gloria Foster who played the Oracle in the first and second films was famously replaced by Mary Alice due to Foster's untimely death. Obviously, Lambert Wilson holds the distinction that he's still very much alive so hopefully schedule permitting, he'll be able to return.
The currently untitled fourth MATRIX film is set to begin production later this year. Director Lana Wachowski's film stars Keanu Reeves, Carrie-Anne Moss, Jada Pinkett-Smith, Neil Patrick Harris, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, and Jonathan Groff and is scheduled to release May 21, 2021.