Appropriately time to the holiday season, we finally have an update on Violent Night 2. The first film arrived in 2022 and starred David Harbour, of Stranger Things fame, as Santa Claus. But not just your average Santa, mind you, but one who isn’t afraid to kick some ass. The film was a success and, naturally, Universal Pictures set about getting a sequel going. Now, Harbour has provided a fun little confirmation that the sequel is, indeed, moving forward.
Taking to Instagram, the actor shared a picture of himself sitting with someone dressed as Santa. Harbour, rocking a Santa hat in the photo, captioned it with, “Merry Xmas, ya filthy animals.” Most importantly, if one looks at Harbour’s hand, they’ll notice that he is holding a script that says “Violent Night 2” on it. There we have it!
While plot details have yet to be revealed, it was in January 2023 that reports first surfaced stating the sequel was in development. Given that projects often fall apart along the way in Hollywood, nearly two years later, it’s nice to see Harbour confirming that this one is full-steam ahead. Last we heard, director Tommy Wirkola was set to return for the follow-up. For those who may need a little refresher, in the first film…
“When a team of mercenaries breaks into a wealthy family compound taking everyone inside hostage, they are not prepared for a surprise combatant: Santa Claus. David Harbour (Stranger Things) stars as St. Nick, delivering some serious season's beatings to save the family and the spirit of Christmas.”
What we know right now is that Christmas horror is having itself a little moment. Most notably, Damien Leone’s Terrifier 3 ranks as one of the highest-grossing horror movies of the year. That was a deeply violent, unrated, gory affair. Violent Night, for what it’s worth, was at least a little more audience friendly. Elsewhere, it was recently confirmed that a new Silent Night, Deadly Night film is in the works as well.
Even taking trends out of the equation, this just makes business sense for Universal. Violent Night made $76 million worldwide on a mere $25 million budget. Moreover, any successful Christmas movie has the chance to become an annual tradition, meaning it can be a moneymaker for years to come. If you can turn that movie into a franchise? Even better. Hopefully, we’ll learn more about the sequel in the coming weeks/months.
Violent Night 2 does not currently have a release date, but stay tuned. For more, check out Fango’s list of the most underrated Christmas horror movies.
Fans of Santa Claus killing dudes with a big hammer, rejoice! David Harbour has confirmed that VIOLENT NIGHT 2 is moving forward.
