A sequel to last year's "Terminator Genisys" was always a long shot following the overwhelming negative critical response and the less-than-expected $440.6 million total at the worldwide box office. In fact, Paramount Pictures even removed the planned follow up from their schedule back in January. But you know Hollywood studios, things can change in an instant if someone thinks that they have a money-making idea.
Should that happen with the "Terminator" franchise - the studio did say they were "re-adjusting" rather than flat out stopping -- it will have to continue without its lead star, Emilia Clarke, who took over the role of Sarah Connor after Linda Hamilton. The "Game of Thrones" star left no doubt that she has chosen not to return to the role.
"No...Can I say that?" Clarke said when asked about appearing in another "Terminator" film. "It's okay. No. Uh-uh. But I have some very different roles coming up."
What are these other roles that will keep Clarke away from a once beloved, but now dying, time travel franchise? The Khaleesi can next be seen in the upcoming sixth season of "Game of Thrones" as well as the new romantic drama "Me Before You" slated to arrive in theaters in June. Clarke will also be starring in the mystery thriller "Voice from the Stone," which will be released sometime later this year.
While "Terminator Genisys" was a smart career move for Clarke in theory - every would-be big star needs a potential blockbuster franchise to lead - the film's underwhelming performance didn't do enough to raise Clarke's profile and reputation. It's understandable why she is stepping away from the series. However, it does leave Paramount in a bit of bind.
Though the studio had cancelled the sequel and went back to the drawing board, it's safe to assume that the executives there have always believed they would return to the series at some point. Without Clarke, any future installments will be missing a rising female lead who portrayed one of the most popular characters in the 30-plus year series.
