Is Happy Death Day 3 DOA? Director Reveals Development Stalled!

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It appears that, as per the film’s director, Christopher Landon, who has made a name for himself in horror-comedies with movies like “Scouts Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse”, “Freaky”, and both installments of “Happy Death Day” and “Happy Death Day 2U”, which were well-received by critics and fans, there might not be a third “Happy Death Day” film. So, while we wait for official updates, it would be wise to manage our expectations.

As a passionate fan, I recently caught wind that Landon shared with SFX Magazine via GamesRadar he hasn’t received any updates from Universal or Blumhouse regarding Happy Death Day 3. Interestingly, he did mention at some point that the studio was contemplating making the third installment in the series a miniseries for Peacock, much like The Continental: From the World of John Wick. It seems the project has gone quiet, with Landon yet to start drafting a script as he prefers not to get too hopeful. In his own words:

“I haven’t heard anything from Universal or Blumhouse about Happy Death Day 3. However, there was talk that they were considering making it a miniseries for Peacock, similar to The Continental: From the World of John Wick. It seems the project has gone quiet, so I haven’t started working on a script because I don’t want to get my hopes up.

I didn’t compose the script because I prefer not to make assumptions about future events. However, I was prepared to get started on writing it, but things took an unusual turn. There were several instances where it seemed like we might move forward with the project, only for it to stall again. At one point, there were discussions about turning it into a three-part event series for [streaming service] Peacock, which felt odd. I responded with something along the lines of ‘Okay, whatever it takes.’ But then the idea faded away and that was the end of it – this happened years ago.

Initially, in late 2019, it appeared as though “Happy Death Day 3” might not materialize because of the financial performance of “Happy Death Day 2U”. But then, in September 2020, director Christopher Landon confirmed that the third movie, tentatively named “Happy Death Day to Us”, was under development. Jessica Rothe was expected to reprise her role and Landon was developing an outline for the film, which he later pitched to Universal Pictures by 2023. Since then, no updates have been shared, and Landon has reflected on the series’ progression, expressing:

The experience has been intriguing since both films turned out to be financially prosperous, yet we and many fans are puzzled as to why we didn’t get the chance to create a third installment. However, I don’t hold the power over the funds or make such decisions. That entirely depends on Blumhouse and Universal; if they feel inclined or have an inclination towards it.

The Chances of ‘Happy Death Day 3’ Happening Are Slim

The horror film “Happy Death Day” debuted in cinemas on October 13, 2017, coinciding with the superstitious date of “Friday the 13th”. It went on to generate $55 million within the US and an additional $125 million globally. The movie managed to recoup its production budget of $4.8 million on its very first day in theatres. The story revolves around a college student named Tree Gelbman, played by Jessica Rothe, who is mysteriously murdered on her birthday but finds herself re-living the same day over and over again. Determined to unmask the killer and prevent her own demise, she embarks on this strange journey. The film proved popular with viewers, prompting the swift production of a sequel.

In a different timeline, the movie “Happy Death Day 2U” was released on February 13, 2019. Yet, this sequel failed to impress at the box office, earning only $28 million in the U.S. and $64 million globally. Although it managed to recover its $9 million budget, its earnings were just half of what the first film made, possibly dampening any prospects for a third installment. Given that six years have passed since the sequel and eight years since the original, the prospect of watching “Happy Death Day to Us” seems remote.

Since then, Landon has shifted his focus to new projects. In the year 2020, he helmed the horror-comedy Freaky, a film that combined the concept of body-swapping seen in Freaky Friday with the terror of Friday the 13th. Some enthusiasts even speculated about a potential fusion between Freaky and Happy Death Day, a possibility Landon himself subtly suggested. Initially, Landon was slated to direct Scream VII but eventually stepped away from the project. His upcoming film, Drop, is set to hit theaters on April 11, 2025, promising more horror thrills. Blumhouse and Universal Pictures are also involved in the production of Drop, so if this movie performs well, there may be a chance for Landon to bring back Happy Death Day for a third installment or perhaps a new title altogether.

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2025-03-26 21:04