Reagan Director's Cut Will Hit Theaters September 25

The extended version of the 2024 film featuring 10 minutes of new footage will debut in 600 U.S. theaters.

Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Science Fiction

Graphic illustration of stacked film reels beside heavy velvet curtains, evoking a classic cinematic atmosphere. — Lionsgate will release a director's cut of the biographical film 'Reagan' in 600 U.S. theaters starting September 25, 2026. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Lionsgate will release the director's cut of the film Reagan in 600 theaters across the United States on September 25, 2026. The expanded version of the film includes 10 minutes of additional footage to coincide with the upcoming 250th anniversary of America.

Why it matters

The re-release follows disputes over advertising, as producers report that YouTube and Facebook restricted promotional content for the film and its associated podcast, Making Reagan. YouTube officials stated that the advertisements were blocked because they referenced officeholders and violated specific U.S. election advertising policies.

A survey conducted by Symphony Technology Group polled 642 respondents, who ranked Dennis Quaid third for his performance in the film. The upcoming theatrical run will expand into 600 locations, following previous platform-wide ad restrictions.

The players

Mark Joseph

Mark Joseph is a film producer who has publicly addressed the advertising hurdles faced by the Reagan production.

Dennis Quaid

Dennis Quaid is a veteran American actor who portrayed the title role in the 2024 film Reagan.

Gene Simmons

Gene Simmons is a musician and television personality who appeared in promotional material that was rejected by YouTube.

Lionsgate

Lionsgate is a major American entertainment company managing the theatrical and digital distribution of the film.

YouTube

YouTube is a global video-sharing platform that enforces specific policies regarding election-related advertising.

The details

Producer Mark Joseph noted that YouTube rejected an appeal regarding ad blocks, while other promotions for the podcast Making Reagan were also flagged for review. Furthermore, YouTube rejected a separate advertisement featuring Gene Simmons due to the inclusion of profanity.

September 25, 2026: The director's cut of the film opens in theaters.

Industry Dynamics

The marketing challenges faced by the film highlight the complexities of navigating digital platforms under YouTube's U.S. election ads policy. Studios increasingly face algorithmic hurdles when promoting content that touches upon historical political figures during active election cycles.

Fans can view the extended cut in 600 theaters beginning on September 25, 2026. Lionsgate also intends to eventually make the version available on digital platforms, Blu-ray, and DVD.

The takeaway

The addition of 10 minutes of footage offers a revised look at the historical biopic for interested viewers. Audiences planning to attend should verify local theater availability ahead of the September 25 opening date.