The 2023 holiday season was sliced and diced by Eli Roth’s Thanksgiving, a film that transformed a beloved fake trailer from 2007’s Grindhouse into a full-blown slasher sensation. Fans were ecstatic when TriStar Pictures greenlit a sequel just two weeks after the first film's debut, with the studio originally eyeing a prime November 2025 release. However, as we settle into early 2026, the dinner table remains conspicuously empty. In a recent update, Roth addressed the delay, offering both a reason for the hold-up and a glimmer of hope for the horror community.
According to a report from Bloody Disgusting, the sequel has yet to enter production despite the massive momentum behind the first installment. The primary culprit? Success itself. The first film’s breakout stars have seen their schedules explode, making a return to the town of Plymouth a logistical nightmare. Roth, however, is quick to dismiss any rumors of the project being cancelled. "Everybody wants to do it," the director stated, emphasizing that the creative drive is present even if the timing hasn't lined up.
The Scheduling Nightmare: Why the Table Isn't Set
One of the biggest hurdles facing Thanksgiving 2 is the availability of its lead actors. Addison Rae, who surprised critics and audiences alike with her performance as Gabby, has been navigating a burgeoning music career and significant touring commitments. Similarly, Milo Manheim has remained one of the busiest young actors in the industry. For a slasher sequel to maintain its impact, Roth and the studio seem committed to bringing back the survivors of the first film rather than pivoting to an entirely new cast.
This commitment to continuity is a double-edged sword. While it ensures that the sequel feels like a true continuation of the mystery surrounding John Carver, it means production is beholden to the professional lives of its stars. TriStar’s original goal of a 2025 release was ambitious, and as that window has officially closed, the production team is now looking toward a timeline that allows for the highest possible quality without rushing the process.
Analysis: Why a Delay Might Be Good for John Carver
While horror fans are notoriously impatient, especially when a new slasher icon like John Carver enters the pantheon, this delay might actually be a blessing in disguise. Eli Roth spent nearly fifteen years trying to get the first Thanksgiving made, ensuring every kill and every joke landed perfectly. By refusing to rush into production just to meet a corporate deadline, Roth is protecting the integrity of the franchise.
The first film was a surprise hit, grossing over $46 million worldwide against a modest $15 million budget. It proved that audiences still have a massive appetite for holiday-themed horror that leans into the "mean-spirited fun" of the 1980s. A rushed sequel often leads to the "sophomore slump," where the kills are repetitive and the mystery feels thin. By taking this extra time, Roth and screenwriter Jeff Rendell have the opportunity to cook up even more inventive, food-themed fatalities that could surpass the infamous "turkey oven" sequence from the original.
What’s Next for the Franchise?
As we look ahead, the big question remains: When will we see the first teaser? If production can find a window in mid-2026, we could potentially see Thanksgiving 2 hitting theaters in time for the 2026 holiday season. Until then, fans can only speculate on how Carver survived the explosive finale of the first film and what new traditions he might bring to the table.
For now, it seems we’ll have to settle for leftovers. But if Roth’s enthusiasm is any indication, the wait for the second helping will be well worth it. Keep your carving knives sharp and your eyes on this space for more updates as they develop.