Original Terminator Star Reveals Why Most of The Sequels Were Disappointing After Judgment Day (Exclusive)

The Terminator franchise includes six films, a TV series, and an animated show on Netflix. But one of the original actors from the first Terminator movies believes he knows why the sequels haven’t lived up to the success of the initial two films. After Terminator: Judgment Day, the movies made less money, and both critics and fans were consistently disappointed. While each sequel had some positive aspects, they never reached the same level of acclaim as the first two. The actor has his own theory about why the later films didn’t quite capture the magic.

Robert Patrick, known for playing the T-1000 in Terminator 2: Judgment Day, believes he knows why the Terminator sequels haven’t lived up to the original two films. Speaking with ComicBook, Patrick said it all comes down to the director. He considers Terminator 2 a masterpiece, praising its blend of action, sci-fi, family drama, horror, and post-apocalyptic themes. When asked why later Terminator movies didn’t reach the same level of quality, Patrick simply stated, “James Cameron. He’s the guy.”

Robert Patrick Considers James Cameron One of World’s Best Directors

Robert Patrick spoke highly of James Cameron, praising his impact on the Terminator films and his overall career. Patrick credits Cameron with the movies’ success and even stated he wouldn’t have had his career without the director’s decision to cast him, noting that he was a complete unknown at the time.

Billy Idol was originally considered for the role of the T-1000 in Terminator 2: Judgment Day, but a motorcycle accident prevented him from taking the part. Director James Cameron then decided to cast someone less well-known, and chose Patrick. Patrick explained that this unexpected turn of events opened the door for him, and he’s grateful it all worked out. Thirty-five years later, the film remains a significant part of his life and career, with people still recognizing him for the role wherever he goes.

Robert Patrick had appeared in seven films before landing the role in Terminator 2: Judgment Day, with Die Hard 2 being his most prominent prior work. His portrayal of the T-1000 was incredibly well-received, leading to fun cameos as the same character in Wayne’s World—during a police stop—and Last Action Hero, a film starring Arnold Schwarzenegger set in a fictional world. Later, he became a regular cast member on The X-Files, taking over for David Duchovny in the show’s later seasons.

After a thirty-year gap, Patrick’s acting career is thriving once more. He gained recognition as Auggie Smith in the first two seasons of Peacemaker, and has since starred as a lead in both Season 2 of Reacher and Season 3 of Tulsa King.

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2025-12-01 16:12