Yes, the heading of the article is correct if anyone is asking. The Hollywood Reporter says that the fourth installment of the “Transporter” franchise is in the works…. without Jason Statham. “Transporter 4” will focus on the origin story of Frank Martin as a professional freelance courier driver for hire. Empireonline.com reported back in May 2013, that EuropaCorp finalized a deal at Cannes for no more than three new installments to hit theaters. Transporters 4-6 will each be budgeted at a not-too-modest $30m-$40m.

Jason Statham will not be returning as Frank Martin

Variety.com elaborates more on what to expect from the trilogy:

Although plot details are still kept under wraps, Lambert said the first installment of “Transporter” reboot will return to the French Riviera, site of the first pic. He said the writers have given more depth to the character of Frank Martin, whose job is to transport goods and ask no questions. For instance, the movie will explore Martin’s relationship with his father, whose role will be played by a prominent thesp.

Statham will be replaced by Ed Skrein, who previously starred in Ben Drew’s critically acclaimed crime drama “Ill Manors.” EuropaCorp CEO Christophe Lambert told Variety:

“We searched everywhere to find a fresh face who had the potential to become an action movie star and we’ve found the right match with Ed Skrein, who’s not only a great actor but also has enough charisma and physical stamina to play Frank Martin (the ‘Transporter’s’ leading role) with brio,”

Ed Skrein also portrayed Daario Naharis, Daenerys Targaryen’s love interest on “Game of Thrones”

From a numbers perspective it makes perfect sense to fork out millions to reboot a franchise that has already garnered a worldwide total of  $250 million. One of the biggest drawing factors why we enjoyed the “Transporter” movies so much was the excellent portrayal of Frank Martin by Statham. We will have to wait and see how Skrein is going to take the franchise forward.

Quick look at the “Transporter” franchise box office earnings:

“Transporter 4” will be helmed by “Brick Mansion” director Camille Delamarre, with a script by Bill Collage and Adam Cooper. Production on the first “Transporter” is set to start in June.

Statham fans still have much to look forward to with the hard-boiled action hero ready to take on “Fast and Furious 7” and “The Mechanic 2”.