Summary
The potential for Warrior season 4 depends on how much of an impact season 3 can make, according to actor Andrew Koji.
The show's cast and crew are unsure about the show's future, but Andrew Koji remains optimistic about the possibility of a fourth season. As a successful blend of crime drama and martial arts, Warrior draws inspiration from the writings of Bruce Lee. Created by Jonathan Tropper and with Shannon Lee as an executive producer, the series is set during the Tong Wars in late-1870s San Francisco. It follows Ah Sahm (played by Koji), a talented martial artist who immigrates from China in search of his sister, only to be sold to one of Chinatown's most powerful tongs.
In a recent interview with Inverse, conducted prior to the SAG-AFTRA strike, Koji shared insights on what lies ahead beyond Warrior season 3. Despite the show's critical acclaim and devoted fanbase, the renewal of the Max series came as a surprise. Koji discussed this in his remarks and indicated that the show's continuation would hinge on the impact of the current season. Additionally, he mentioned the prospects for Warrior season 4, stating:
"The cast and crew are uncertain about returning, as it will largely depend on the success of this season's reception. [...] We have a promising chance for season 4. If we were to proceed with Warrior season 4, it would most likely take place next year due to scheduling conflicts. However, it might not occur until the middle of next year, which concerns me as I'll be getting older. [...] We would need to work swiftly, with intense dedication and limited recovery time. Such demands undoubtedly take a toll on the body."
Why Warrior Season 3's Renewal Was A Surprise
Warrior season 2 was commissioned in April 2019, marking a significant milestone as the final original series produced by Cinemax before discontinuing original programming. Subsequently, in January 2021, fans of Warrior, now available on the HBO Max streaming service, initiated a petition to revive the show. This petition amassed an impressive 60 thousand signatures by April 2021. During the same month, it was officially announced that the martial arts drama would transition to HBO Max (now known as Max) for its third season.
Following this development, Tropper expressed his gratitude to Casey Bloys, the current Chairman & CEO of HBO and Max Content, in a note. Additionally, Tropper hinted at the potential for more Warrior, despite his initial skepticism. He believed the decision to continue the show had been a creative triumph with a fiercely dedicated fan base.
Warrior emerged as one of the most popular series on HBO Max in April 2021, ranking within the top 15. This critically acclaimed show has garnered unanimous praise, achieving a flawless score for its last two seasons. With the ever-changing streaming landscape, it is hoped that these achievements will secure its return for future seasons.