Madelyn Cline Reveals the Last-Minute Changes to ‘I Know What You Did Last Summer’

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[This story contains major spoilers for 2025’s I Know What You Did Last Summer.]

It’s been an especially busy summer for Madelyn Cline.

Apart from being in the midst of filming the last season of her successful Netflix show, Outer Banks, she’s also been simultaneously publicizing the upcoming cinema release of Jennifer Kaytin Robinson’s I Know What You Did Last Summer (2025). This isn’t all. Less than a month ago, she made room in her current filming schedule and traveled from South Carolina to Los Angeles to shoot a new ending for her role in Robinson’s slasher movie.

In Jim Gillespie’s 1997 chilling franchise starter, “I Know What You Did Last Summer,” Jennifer Love Hewitt’s character, Julie James, and Sarah Michelle Gellar’s Helen Shivers were inseparable friends until the tragic encounter with the menacing Fisherman portrayed by Ben Willis. In the sequel to that movie, and 1998’s “I Still Know What You Did Last Summer,” Chase Sui Wonders’ Ava Brucks and Cline’s Danica Richards step into the shoes of Julie and Helen in the haunting town of Southport, North Carolina. (Warning: Spoilers follow).

Cline’s character used to be a beauty queen in the Croaker Pageant, much like Helen’s character, and her first fiancé, Teddy Spencer (played by Tyriq Withers), is as unpredictable and wealthy as Barry (Ryan Phillippe) was for Helen. Unlike Helen, though, due to audience feedback from test screenings, Danica won’t experience the same tragic outcome. Cline only found out that her character would escape Fisherman’s latest wrath in mid-June.

Approximately two and a half weeks ago, I learned that I was returning. Around two weeks ago, we filmed the final scenes for the project, as shared during a press event on June 28th with The Hollywood Reporter.

In June’s additional photography in Los Angeles, a fresh scene was included where Danica pays a visit to Helen’s grave and finds an abandoned framed photo of her. This scene served to subtly foreshadow the upcoming resurrection of Gellar’s character, Helen, in Danica’s future dream. As per Cline, this eerie sequence wasn’t initially part of the script, but it was later incorporated during the rehearsal period of filming. Interestingly, Gellar shared posts from the Australian set that seemed to indicate she was merely visiting her husband Freddie Prinze Jr. for Thanksgiving last year. Coincidentally, Prinze Jr.’s character, Ray Bronson, and Hewitt’s Julie became two of the three remaining characters carrying on the series legacy in the new film.

Cline wasn’t aware that a dream sequence featuring Sarah Michelle Gellar was taking place. Jenn (Kaytin Robinson) informed him through a text message that they were going to film it. He was completely taken aback, left speechless. Then, she sent him the script excerpts and asked for his opinion. He replied, ‘I adore them, but whatever. The fact that we’re doing this, write as you please. I’m on board. I’ll do whatever you want.’

When collaborating with Gellar, I find myself consistently amazed by her effortless demeanor – a blend of professional actress and devoted mom.

As a gamer, I can’t help but feel like it was one of my most epic moments ever. It seemed like fate was guiding us, crafting this encounter between Danica and Helen for the storyline. It just felt destined that they would cross paths, and I couldn’t be more grateful for Sarah Michelle Gellar’s blessing. She’s a true icon, a powerhouse who has always been a driving force in the gaming world.

In a recent chat with THR, Cline talked about how her character serves as comic relief and how Rian Johnson, the director of Glass Onion, emphasized this aspect. She also shared some insights about her name being linked to Spider-Man 4 casting speculations for a couple of years.

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To summarize, you grew up in South Carolina and film your series, [Outer Banks], there. Now, you’re acting in a horror franchise set in North Carolina, specifically [I Know What You Did Last Summer]. Is this connection to North Carolina just a coincidence for this project?

Indeed, it’s quite an unusual turn of events, but the horror film “I Know What You Did Last Summer” was actually filmed in Australia, despite being set in North Carolina. This suggests that our scope is expanding, moving progressively away from the familiar.

In a more conversational style, the sentence could be rephrased as: “It seems like Outer Banks, Glass Onion, I Know What You Did Last Summer, and your upcoming films, along with a few of your past indies, all have a summery feel. Does this town believe you’re sensitive to cold weather?

Absolutely, I agree with you. It seems like there’s something in my aura that rejects winter. I’m not sure if it’s the sun-kissed glow or the frosted hairstyle, but the persistent joke about me and boats always makes me laugh.

But you will do snow if it comes your way?

I would love to do snow, but I just don’t trust snow’s continuity.

As a kid, when I wasn’t caught up in the laughter of reruns of Seinfeld and Friends, did the Last Summer movies ever catch your attention? (Or more casually, Did you happen to notice the Last Summer films during our shared childhood?)

No …

The I Know What You Did Last Summer movies never reached you?  

Oh, sorry, I thought you said Last Summer movies. 

My fault. I was doing that Hollywood thing where nobody says the full title of anything. 

(Laughs.) Yes, I abbreviated the rule. I wasn’t permitted to watch horror movies at all. Thus, my initial encounter with the original was likely during a sleepover at a friend’s place where their parents allowed such films. And since I was quite timid, I probably watched it while hiding my eyes. However, as I grew older, my preferences transformed, and I developed an appreciation for horror-thrillers and psychological thrillers.

As a dedicated fan, I’ve always admired the original movie that holds a special place in one of my dearest friends’ heart. When an audition opportunity popped up related to this cherished film, we found ourselves revisiting it. It’s amusing because the production team behind Outer Banks has some connections with the crew who worked on the Last Summer series. (I can’t help but chuckle at the thought of referencing my franchise abbreviation, as if it were old times with them.) Needless to say, this project has been a constant presence and an integral part of its unique atmosphere for me.

Danica possesses a humorous personality, she’s unique and somewhat unpredictable. Previously, your comedic abilities have been commended, but did Rian Johnson inspire you to believe in your ability to handle comedy roles?

Indeed, it’s affirmative. Completely so. Recollecting my time on the set for “Glass Onion” and observing Kathryn Hahn, Kate Hudson, and Daniel Craig let loose and be genuinely themselves was truly captivating. My initial professional venture with Danny McBride on “Vice Principals” evoked a similar sensation. However, to receive confirmation from Rian about this, that’s when the light bulb went off for me – “Ah, I think I want to pursue this acting career.

I had a conversation with you long ago regarding an unusual horror film titled “The Giant”, and something you said has been echoing in my mind ever since. You mentioned that the most common comment you received from the director was the phrase “low and slow”. (It’s clear to anyone who watched the movie.) Was Jennifer Kaytin Robinson’s feedback, on the other hand, more akin to the polar opposite?

Yes! Since then, it’s actually been the opposite most of the time.

High and fast?

Yes, high energy and fast pace. 

When you first read the script, did you correctly guess the killer reveal?

Of course not, I didn’t! When diving into any murder mystery for the first time, you’re engrossed in the narrative and attempting to solve the puzzle, but you’re searching in all the incorrect spots. That’s actually a sign that the mystery novel has been well-crafted.

So even though you worked with Mr. Whodunit, Rian Johnson, your guessing skills are still …

Terrible! I have the survival instincts of a pickle.

Following the accident, Danica pulls into a parking garage, and I was captivated by that chilly stare you gave me through the rear-view mirror. On those midnight journeys when you’re accompanied by your four dearest companions, about how often are you behind the wheel?

Initially, I always drove all the time, but as I’ve grown older, I’ve become more aware of the risks involved. Nowadays, it’s approximately a 60-40 split between driving and other means of transportation.

Or, in another way:

I once drove all the time, but as I’ve gotten older, I’ve come to understand the potential dangers. These days, I drive about 60% of the time, while using alternative methods for the rest.

In the initial meeting between you and your fellow actor, Jonah Hauer-King, on the filming location, which one of you brought up “Rocky III” first?

(Laughs.) I don’t know, but Jonah was in Harry Potter. 

Oh, was he? 

Yeah!

If I wasn’t clear earlier, it’s worth mentioning that the film we made together, titled “[This is the Night]”, has elements inspired by the movie “Rocky III”.

Gosh darn it! He’s constantly reminding me about that, yet I can’t seem to recall. We had a shoot last week and he said something like, “Madelyn and I have worked together before.” (Mimicking Hauer-King’s British accent). And I responded, “What are you referring to?” But we’ve had this discussion numerous times. I can’t figure out why I kept it from my mind. (Laughs). Perhaps it’s because we filmed in Staten Island.

[The following eight questions and answers contain significant plot details about the 2025 movie, “I Know What You Did Last Summer”. Proceed with caution if you wish to avoid spoilers.]

Now we’re moving on to questions about spoilers. Let’s start with the scene featuring Sarah Michelle Gellar as Helen Shivers in the dream sequence. Can you tell us more about how that was planned and executed?

It wasn’t part of the initial plan, but I didn’t expect it to happen. I had just left a rehearsal when Jenn [Kaytin Robinson] texted me about doing something unexpected. I was taken aback, completely surprised. She then sent me the script excerpts and asked for my thoughts. I replied that I adored them, though it didn’t matter to me. The fact that we were doing this at all made me eager to participate in whatever she wrote. I agreed to do whatever she wanted.

I firmly believe that day was among the most memorable of my life, and it seemed as though fate had arranged everything perfectly for that moment. It felt fitting for Danica to encounter Helen and confront her own reflection. Additionally, nearly every character in the movie receives the opportunity to receive the torch from an original cast member. This is such a significant and unique touch to be endorsed by Sarah Michelle Gellar and welcomed as part of the next generation.

Could you tell if Helen’s return was surreal for Sarah?

She spent the entire day making us laugh, taking care of things like ordering lunch, and acting as our mom. It was a fun-filled day with the whole family present. We filmed it on a Saturday, which made it feel somewhat like a casual off-day, yet still an active one. The atmosphere was relaxed, familial, and easygoing. However, Sarah Michelle Gellar exudes an undeniable energy and presence, making her a true force.

In the cemetery, Danica gazes upon Helen’s picture and recognizes her as a former Croaker Pageant Queen, too. Did they add this moment specifically to establish the subsequent dream sequence?

Indeed, it was incorporated during the supplementary filming sessions we held in Los Angeles, which took place several months following our initial shoot in Australia.

To clarify, did the final version of your character survive during post-production? Was there a strong backlash from test viewers about Danica’s death that resulted in further filming?

From what I’ve heard, allegedly, yes. 

I was also really frustrated by your character’s death, so I’m glad that was undone.

Thank you. I only got the news that I was coming back about two-and-a-half weeks ago.

What!? Two weeks ago? [Note: This interview was conducted on June 28.]

Yeah, we shot all those very, very end scenes about two weeks ago. 

Oh my God, movie magic. 

I know, I know. How crazy.

Did you tell your friend, whose favorite movie is “I Know What You Did Last Summer,” also known as just “Last Summer,” that this is one of your favorites too?

I haven’t told her. She’s coming to the premiere, and I want to hear her scream. 

[The spoiler section for I Know What You Did Last Summer has now concluded.]

Sony is responsible for producing “I Know What You Did Last Summer” and, if you’ve been to the cinema recently, they are also the creators of those Spider-Man films.

I have! 

Have there been speculations about your involvement in Spider-Man 4 for the past few years? Is there any basis to these rumors, or was it merely a case of someone getting carried away with your Spider-Gwen costume during Halloween?

Never say never. Look, I am a huge fan of Spider-Gwen, but I haven’t heard anything. 

I always assumed your Spider-Gwen costume was a reference to your True Grit audition.

(Grins broadly.) You know what? Sometimes it feels like Hailee Steinfeld and I are living mirror images of each other! However, let me clarify that my affection has always been reserved for Spider-Gwen. The costume, a masterpiece crafted by an artist from South Carolina, was the most stunning I’ve ever laid eyes on. Naturally, it became my top choice for Halloween.

Are you currently shooting the last season of Outer Banks? Does it seem like the perfect moment for you to conclude this series at least?

I believe we’ve conveyed our intended narrative, and it seems to resonate with everyone. However, much like our characters, it’s now time for us to evolve once more. This applies to the original cast of “Last Summer” as well – it’s their turn to hand over the responsibility, paving the way for the new generation in the Outer Banks universe.

If you were to remake “The Notebook” in South Carolina, there would be no argument that you’d become the reigning queen of Carolina literature.

This place is truly stunning, but it can be quite bug-infested. Yesterday’s call sheet used rather formal language to warn us about the “mosquito-prone location,” which seems to be the norm around here. However, I’m a big admirer of “The Notebook” and find this location captivating for filming. My family resides here, and I hold a deep affection for it. So, there’s a possibility we might go ahead with it.

When looking back on the Last Summer memories years from now, which day do you think will stand out most in your mind first?

On that unforgettable first day, I stepped out of the plane feeling incredibly jet-lagged. In no time at all, Chase [Sui Wonders] and I headed towards the Sydney Opera House. It crossed my mind if I was still tipsy from the flight or just suffering from jet lag – a question that left me laughing to myself. We promptly sent Jenn a photo of us outside the opera house with an excited exclamation, “We’ve arrived!” Afterward, everything else seemed to take off at a rapid pace.

I promise I won’t put, “Am I still drunk from the plane?” in the headline of this piece.

You can put it in the text below it. 

The DEK, as we call it. 

(Laughs.) Yeah, the DEK!

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I Know What You Did Last Summer (2025) is now playing in movie theaters.

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2025-07-20 18:55