Get ready, horror fans, because Jason Voorhees is back! After years in legal limbo, the iconic slasher is slashing his way back into our lives with exciting new projects under the freshly minted "Jason Universe" banner. You've waited, and now the machete is finally coming down!
The biggest news hitting the horror circuit is the highly anticipated Crystal Lake TV series, a prequel coming to Peacock. Filming is already underway, kicking off in June 2025 and set to run through October. This isn't just another walk in the woods; it's an deep dive into the terrifying origins of Camp Crystal Lake and, more importantly, the chilling backstory of Jason's mother, Pamela Voorhees.
And the casting news is huge! Linda Cardellini, known for her roles in Dead to Me and Scooby-Doo, is stepping into the pivotal role of Pamela. We'll also see Callum Vinson as a young Jason, giving us a fresh perspective on his formative years. Plus, there are whispers that seasoned stunt performer Schuyler White might even appear as an adult Jason in at least one episode – a treat for long-time fans!
The series, now helmed by showrunner Brad Caleb Kane, promises to explore the dark mythology surrounding the cursed camp. Keep an eye out for other confirmed cast members like William Catlett, Devin Kessler, Cameron Scoggins, and Joy Suprano, among others, who are all set to bring this chilling tale to life.
While we eagerly await Crystal Lake, we're also getting a direct dose of Jason much sooner! A brand-new short film titled "Sweet Revenge" is on its way, directed by Mike P. Nelson (Wrong Turn 2021). Described as a "vignette," this project is part of the Jason Universe's celebration of the franchise's 45th anniversary.
What's truly exciting about "Sweet Revenge" is that it marks Jason Voorhees' first live-action appearance in 16 years, since the 2009 remake! This is a moment fans have been clamoring for. You'll be able to catch "Sweet Revenge" later this year on the official Jason Universe YouTube channel and a website hosted by Angry Orchard Hard Cider, who's sponsoring the production.
So, while a new Friday the 13th feature film might not be on the immediate docket, the launch of the "Jason Universe" and these exciting new projects signal a thrilling new era for our favorite hockey-masked killer. It's time to dust off your machetes and get ready for more terror – Jason is back, and he's not holding back!
What are you most excited to see from the new Jason Universe?