Chris Rock Advocates for a New Madagascar Movie: Will Marty the Zebra Return?

Chris Rock has humorously called for the production of a fourth Madagascar film, expressing his enthusiasm for reprising his role as Marty the Zebra. In a recent interview, he reflected on the franchise's success and pointed to other animated series as examples of why Madagascar deserves another installment. Despite the popularity of the original trilogy and various spin-offs, no official announcement has been made regarding a new film. Rock's comments highlight his eagerness to return to the beloved character, leaving fans curious about the future of the franchise.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 10, 2026, 00:06 IST

Chris Rock's Plea for Madagascar 4

Comedian and actor Chris Rock has made a playful yet earnest request for the creation of a fourth film in the beloved Madagascar animated series. Recognized for his role as Marty the Zebra, Rock expressed his eagerness to step back into this character during a recent interview with Variety, highlighting his fondness for the franchise and his financial circumstances following his divorce.

Reflecting on the success of the original trilogy, which starred notable actors like Ben Stiller, David Schwimmer, and Jada Pinkett Smith, Rock described the series as a pivotal part of his career. He pointed out the current Hollywood trend of reviving franchises, suggesting that Madagascar is an ideal candidate for a sequel, humorously mentioning his changed financial situation post-divorce.

Advocating for Franchise Growth

In his discussion with Variety, Rock cited other enduring animated franchises as proof that Madagascar could easily support additional films. He specifically mentioned the Ice Age series, which has seen five films, and the ongoing popularity of Toy Story. Rock expressed his bewilderment over the absence of a fourth Madagascar film, reiterating his willingness to reprise his role as Marty whenever the opportunity arises.

Launched in 2005, the Madagascar franchise chronicles the escapades of four animals from the Central Park Zoo—Marty, Alex the Lion, Gloria the Hippo, and Melman the Giraffe—as they adapt to life beyond their enclosures. The original trilogy includes the 2005 film, 2008’s Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa, and 2012’s Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted. Additionally, the franchise has branched out into various spin-offs, featuring the spy penguins and King Julien, such as Penguins of Madagascar and All Hail King Julien.

Despite the success of these spin-offs and the lasting appeal of the main characters, there has yet to be any formal announcement regarding a fourth film. For now, Rock’s remarks serve as a public indication of his interest in revisiting the franchise, showcasing his readiness to return to the studio if the production team decides to embark on a new installment.