More than a decade has passed since Avatar first introduced audiences to Pandora. With The Way of Water proving James Cameron’s ambitious vision for the franchise, fans are eagerly awaiting updates on the next installment, Avatar: Fire & Ash.
While details about the highly anticipated sequel remain scarce, Stephen Lang—who returns as Colonel Miles Quaritch—shared an encouraging update on the film’s progress in an exclusive interview with Collider while promoting his role in Prime Video’s big-budget biblical epic, House of David.
When asked if he had finished filming his scenes for Fire & Ash and the other Avatar sequels, Lang confirmed that, as far as he knows, his work is complete.
I give you a tentative yes, absolutely. But you know, with Jim, you never know. I believe I’m finished. I’ve already been finished! By God, I’ve shot enough! But as I say, with him, there’s a phone line that’s always open that says, ‘We need you here. Get your ass out here,’ and I’ll be there. I think it’s done. I think we’re done.
Considering Cameron’s tendency to refine and expand his films during production, it wouldn’t be surprising if more shooting days are added before the film’s release. However, Lang’s update indicates that Fire & Ash is moving forward smoothly, with principal photography seemingly wrapped—at least for his role. He doesn’t expect to return to New Zealand for any additional filming.
After the emotional events of The Way of Water, Fire & Ash is expected to take the Avatar saga in a darker direction. Familiar faces like Stephen Lang, Sam Worthington, Zoe Saldaña, and Sigourney Weaver will return, though plot details remain limited. However, Cameron has hinted at a major shift in focus, introducing the “Ash People,” a fire-based Na’vi clan that will challenge what audiences think they know about Pandora, along with the “Wind Traders,” who navigate the planet’s skies.
Lang’s Quaritch, who was resurrected as a Recombinant in The Way of Water, will continue to play a major role in the sequel. Cameron has confirmed that his journey is far from over. While Quaritch showed signs of internal conflict due to his unexpected bond with his son, Spider (Jack Champion), Fire & Ash could push him further toward redemption—though trusting him completely may still be a stretch.
Avatar: Fire & Ash is set to arrive in theaters on December 19, 2025.