The long-awaited sequel to the Young Guns franchise is finally happening. Emilio Estevez, who first played Billy the Kid nearly 40 years ago, has confirmed that he will star in and direct Young Guns 3: Dead or Alive. The film was officially announced during New Mexico’s Film and Media Day, with Estevez revealing that original cast members Lou Diamond Phillips and Christian Slater will also return.
According to The Associated Press (AP), Estevez shared the news at the New Mexico State Capitol, joking about whether the film should be called “Old Guns” given the time gap since the last installment. The first two Young Guns films were major box office hits, redefining the Western genre for a new generation.
The Legacy of Young Guns
When Young Guns premiered in 1988, it introduced a fresh, youthful take on the Western mythos, following the Lincoln County War of 1877-78. The film starred Kiefer Sutherland, Lou Diamond Phillips, Charlie Sheen, Dermot Mulroney, and Casey Siemaszko, alongside Estevez as the reckless and unpredictable Billy the Kid.
Its success led to Young Guns II (1990), which continued the legend, exploring the outlaw’s fate and the pursuit led by Pat Garrett. The sequel performed well at the box office, fueled by its cult following and an Oscar-nominated soundtrack featuring Jon Bon Jovi’s “Blaze of Glory”.
Both films were shot in New Mexico, taking full advantage of the state’s rugged landscapes, which have been a staple in Hollywood Westerns since the days of John Wayne and Kirk Douglas.
New Mexico’s Film Industry & The Return of Young Guns
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham emphasized the cultural and economic impact of Young Guns, stating:
“This production represents exactly what our film incentives are designed to attract — high-quality projects that create jobs for New Mexicans while showcasing our state’s extraordinary beauty.”
In recent years, New Mexico has become a major hub for Hollywood productions, with streaming giants Netflix and NBCUniversal setting up operations in the state. The return of Young Guns only reinforces its status as a go-to location for large-scale film projects.
What We Know About Young Guns 3
While plot details remain under wraps, Estevez confirmed that early work on the film is underway, with no official filming start date revealed yet. The script is being written by Estevez and John Fusco, the original creator of Young Guns, and the film will be produced by Morgan Creek.
For years, both Estevez and Phillips have hinted at the possibility of a third film, but this is the first official confirmation that Billy the Kid will ride again.
A Cult Franchise Rides Again
The Young Guns series has endured as one of the most beloved modern Western franchises, blending historical elements with stylized action and a cast that helped define an era of Hollywood’s young talent.
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