Alien vs Predator: Earth Creator Reveals Possibility of Crossover

The Alien and Predator franchises continue to thrive under Disney's management. Alongside recent hits like Alien: Romulus and Predator: Badlands, both universes have expanded to the small screen with entries such as the animated Predator: Killer of Killers and the franchise's first-ever TV series, Alien: Earth.

Given the occasional overlap between the two worlds, fans have been curious if Alien: Earth might ever feature a Predator crossover. While FX and Hulu have confirmed a second season of Alien: Earth, details about future episodes remain scarce.

Series creator Noah Hawley addressed the topic during an appearance on the SmartLess podcast, making it clear that a crossover is not planned: No, not onto the show, I don't think. I think Dan Trachtenberg, who made Prey and has made the Badlands movie you know, I loved Prey. I think he's doing a great job with that franchise. He clearly has a plan there. I've met Dan once, we're not kind of coordinating any of that stuff. So, it's not really my plan to do it.

Hawleys remarks underline that Trachtenberg has effectively taken the lead on the Predator universe in recent years. Prey was critically acclaimed in 2022, followed by Killer of Killers, which also received strong praise on Hulu. The upcoming Predator: Badlands continues this momentum, with Disney giving Trachtenberg considerable creative freedom.

Interestingly, Predator: Badlands has clear connections to the Alien universe, featuring androids from the Weyland-Yutani corporation. While Xenomorphs do not appear, Disney appears to be laying groundwork for a potential future crossover, possibly in a new Alien vs. Predator project. A sequel to Alien: Romulus is also in development, though its ties to Trachtenbergs Predator work remain uncertain.

Despite these possibilities, Hawley emphasized that any crossover wont occur in his series, which focuses on events preceding the original Alien film. In an August interview with GamesRadar, he explained that discussions with Trachtenberg and Romulus director Fede lvarez are mostly to avoid overlapping storylines rather than planning a shared universe: We talk to the degree that we're trying to avoid duplication of story or inadvertent mimicry. But in general, they're not all coordinated. What I've suggested, since there's a surprising paucity of mythology in the seven ['Alien'] films, other than that there's a company called Weyland-Yutani. [...] I've said, 'Well, you know, so if this show is a prequel to the movies, and I've made some choices about how humanity is organized: It might be helpful if you adopt those [choices] should the issue come up in your films,' Right? But otherwise, we're not really coordinating with each other.

Alien: Earth season 1 is currently streaming on Hulu.

Commentary: No Predator Crossover in "Alien: Earth" - A Clear Direction for Both Universes

The latest developments surrounding the "Alien" and "Predator" franchises under Disney's guidance reinforce a clear distinction between the two universes, despite their occasional overlap. Creator Noah Hawley’s remarks about "Alien: Earth" clarify that no crossover with the Predator universe is in the works for his series, even though fans have speculated about such a possibility. Hawley emphasized that his focus remains solely on the prequel narrative of the "Alien" saga, making it clear that any connections between the two franchises are not on the table for now.

Hawley's comments highlight a significant aspect of modern franchise management—creative control and coordination. While the Predator universe continues to thrive, especially under the direction of Dan Trachtenberg with projects like "Prey" and the upcoming "Predator: Badlands," the two worlds are heading in separate directions. Trachtenberg’s approach has given the Predator series its own distinct identity, ensuring that any potential future crossover would require careful planning, but not necessarily within the scope of Hawley’s vision.

Interestingly, the connections between "Predator: Badlands" and the "Alien" universe, particularly the mention of the Weyland-Yutani corporation, hint at future possibilities for a crossover. However, for now, these connections are subtle, leaving the door open for potential expansion without disrupting the direction of either franchise. As for "Alien: Romulus," its sequel is in development, but its relationship to the Predator franchise remains uncertain.

Ultimately, Hawley’s statement serves as a reminder that while crossovers may be tempting, both franchises benefit from maintaining their own unique paths. The careful distinction between them, even when their narratives overlap, ensures that each series remains fresh and true to its origins. Fans can look forward to a future where both worlds continue to expand, albeit separately—for now.

Sources:

• Alien: Earth Creator Reveals Whether The Series Will Ever Crossover With Predator

Author: Grace Ellison
Grace Ellison is a journalist focusing on environmental issues and sustainability. She has experience publishing international reports and participating in documentary projects.