Lionsgate Drops ‘Saw XI’ from Release Schedule
Lionsgate has officially removed Saw XI from its release calendar, leading to speculation about the future of the long-running horror franchise. The highly anticipated sequel was originally slated for a September 26, 2025, release, but internal conflicts between producers and the studio have led to delays.
Patrick Melton, a writer for the film, recently told The Hollywood Reporter that production was facing “inter-squabbling” at a managerial level. Despite this setback, the franchise might not be over just yet.
In response to the rumors, Lionsgate issued a playful statement through Billy the Puppet, the iconic ventriloquist dummy from the Saw films: “I’ve seen the rumors. They say it’s Game Over. You all should know me better than that. The game is never over.”
‘The Strangers: Chapter 2’ Takes Over Release Slot
In a related move, Lionsgate announced that The Strangers: Chapter 2 will now be released in Saw XI’s original September 26 slot. The sequel follows up on The Strangers: Chapter 1, which hit theaters in May 2024 and grossed $48 million globally.
Madelaine Petsch, who reprises her role in the upcoming film, expressed excitement about its release, stating, “I promise that we’re making The Strangers: Chapter 2 as terrifying as possible, and I can’t wait to show you on September 26.”
Producers Mark Canton and Courtney Solomon added, “Like Strangers fans everywhere, we’re thrilled for Chapter 2—it’s the kind of film that’ll have audiences watching through their fingers. Bringing it to theaters this Halloween season is perfect, and we can’t wait for everyone to see where the story goes next.”
The film, directed by Renny Harlin, features Gabriel Basso and Ema Horvath alongside Petsch. The screenplay was written by Alan R. Cohen and Alan Freedland, with producers including Solomon, Canton, Christopher Milburn, Gary Raskin, Alastair Burlingham, and Charlie Dombek.
Uncertainty Looms Over Saw XI
Although Saw XI is currently off the release calendar, Melton and his co-writer Marcus Dunstan had already submitted a draft of the screenplay in May 2024. According to Melton, the delay is not due to creative issues but rather managerial decisions within Lionsgate.
Melton remains hopeful that the film will eventually be made, citing the story’s relevance. He compared its themes to Saw VI, which took on the health insurance industry. The topic gained renewed attention following the recent murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, further fueling interest in the film’s storyline.
The Saw franchise remains one of Lionsgate’s most profitable horror properties, having grossed over $1 billion at the global box office since its inception in 2004 with James Wan’s original film. While Saw XI faces uncertainty, its legacy in the horror genre continues to thrive.