Bam Margera has agreed to appear in the upcoming Jackass 5 through never-before-seen archival footage, marking a reconciliation with the franchise after years of tension. The film, set for release on June 26, will mix old clips with new stunts. While Margera won't film fresh material at this stage, the deal signals a thaw in his relationship with Johnny Knoxville and the crew.
The announcement of Jackass 5 comes shortly after Johnny Knoxville revealed the project's return to theaters. Variety confirmed that Margera, an original cast member and former professional skateboarder, has signed an agreement allowing Paramount Pictures to use previously unseen footage from his time on the MTV series and earlier films. This includes infamous stunts like being branded on his buttocks or caged with a cobra.
The deal ends a long-standing feud. Margera was removed from 2022's Jackass Forever for allegedly violating a wellness agreement that required sobriety, including regular drug and alcohol tests. He later sued Paramount, Knoxville, and director Jeff Tremaine for wrongful termination, claiming he was coerced into the agreement during rehab in 2019 and fired after testing positive for prescription Adderall, which he had used for a decade. The lawsuit was settled, but Margera remained vocal against returning, stating last summer, “You couldn’t offer me enough money to want to do another ‘Jackass’ with them. The damage has been done.”
Knoxville expressed support in a 2022 Variety interview, saying, “I love Bam” and “I want him to get well and stay well,” while leaving the door open for a comeback if Margera maintained sobriety. Sources close to Margera told TMZ that producers reached out to his representatives late last year, and despite his reluctance, involvement in the creative process or direct talks with the crew could lead to more participation now that he is sober.
TMZ reported initial negotiations focused on clearing old footage, with potential for new stunts if talks progressed. However, as of now, Margera's role is limited to archival material. The film aims to deliver a 'greatest hits' format, blending past antics with fresh content. Margera recently reunited with fellow Jackass alum Chris Pontius in December and returned to the Tony Hawk's Pro Skater gaming franchise.
