‘Happy Death Day 3’ Confirmed: Jessica Rothe and Christopher Landon Tease Next Slasher Chapter

The Happy Death Day franchise, a standout in modern slasher horror, is finally getting its long-awaited third installment. At a double feature screening of Happy Death Day and Happy Death Day 2U at the American Cinematheque on April 6, 2025, star Jessica Rothe and director Christopher Landon dropped the bombshell fans have been waiting for: Happy Death Day 3 is moving forward. Here’s what we know about the next chapter of this time-loop terror.

A Long-Awaited Confirmation

During the event, as reported by Bloody Disgusting, Rothe announced, “The third movie is moving forward.” Landon, who helmed both previous films, backed her up, saying, “It is moving forward.” This news comes six years after Happy Death Day 2U hit theaters in 2019, a gap that left fans wondering if Tree Gelbman’s story would ever continue. The confirmation has reignited excitement for a series that’s earned $189 million worldwide on a combined $13.8 million budget.

Where the Project Stands

Details are scarce, signaling Happy Death Day 3 is in early development. Landon has a treatment ready but no full script, and Blumhouse hasn’t officially greenlit it yet, per Screen Rant. Past ideas—like a three-part Peacock miniseries or a project titled Happy Death Day to Us—didn’t pan out, but Universal seems to be leaning toward a traditional feature film. While this vagueness leaves questions, Rothe and Landon’s involvement is a strong start for the franchise’s future.

What Could the Story Be?

The first film saw Tree (Rothe) trapped in a time loop, reliving her murder until she unmasked her killer. 2U upped the ante with parallel dimensions and sci-fi twists, ending on a bittersweet note. Landon’s hinted that the third film won’t revisit the same day, aiming for a “bigger” scope—possibly an “epic apocalyptic adventure” with horror roots, as he told Collider. This could take Tree beyond her college campus, facing new threats in a bolder, bloodier narrative.

Why It Matters

Happy Death Day blended Groundhog Day with slasher thrills, earning a 72% Rotten Tomatoes score and $125 million on a $4.8 million budget. 2U, with 67% and $64 million on $9 million, leaned into sci-fi but kept the charm, per Dark Horizons. Yet, the franchise has felt underused compared to juggernauts like Scream. A third film could cement its legacy, especially with Rothe’s star power—she’s called it her “dream role”—and Landon’s knack for genre mashups.

Challenges and Hopes

The six-year hiatus hasn’t dulled fan enthusiasm, but hurdles remain. 2U’s mixed reception (some felt it strayed from horror) means Happy Death Day 3 must balance innovation with the original’s edge. Landon’s vision for a grander scale, as shared with Inverse, could stretch budgets, and Blumhouse’s approval is key, per Deadline. Still, Rothe’s optimism—she told Deadline, “We just need to wait for Blumhouse & Universal to get their ducks in a row”—keeps hope alive.

What’s Next

With no release date set, 2027 feels plausible if production ramps up soon, following the series’ biennial pattern, as noted by Screen Rant. Fans can expect Rothe as Tree, likely joined by Israel Broussard as Carter, though other casting is unconfirmed. Landon’s return would ensure continuity, blending humor, heart, and gore. For now, the franchise’s revival is a win for slasher lovers eager to see Tree face her next loop—or whatever lies beyond.

Are you hyped for Happy Death Day 3? What do you want from Tree’s next adventure? Share below!