It’s good news for fans of the Peruvian bear.

Good news for Paddington fans: the movie’s fourth installment has officially been given the go-ahead. 

Canal+ CEO Maxime Saada said on 28 July that the Studio Canal flick is already in development, with some big-name celebs in tow. 

Starting in 2028, Canal+ will invest €1 billion (£855,415) in French and European cinema. That’ll give it privileged access to new movie releases, both from its own studios and those it acquires. 

Saada explained to Reuters, “When we buy and we have deals with Universal, Warner, Paramount... all of these movies are available on the Canal+ platform in France six months after release.

“When Netflix has a deal with Universal, they have to wait until 15 months to broadcast the movie [in France].”

That could give Canal+ a significant streaming advantage.

Here’s what we know about Paddington 4 so far: 

Again, we’re not sure, but we do know former Paddington star Hugh Bonneville likely won’t be reprising his role.

In an i Paper interview, the actor said of a possible return: “I think I’ve probably had my last dance on that one.”

And speaking to Saga Magazine about the topic, he added: “I don’t think so. I really don’t. I’ve loved it, but I’m getting on a bit. It’s a younger man’s job, but you can get other actors in and it will work just as well, because it’s all about the bear.”

The Thick of It writer Armando Iannucci will write the script, however. 

Paddington in Peru director Dougal Wilson is also reportedly “in talks” to return to the franchise.