Since her blood-soaked breakout in 2019’s Ready or Not, Samara Weaving has transitioned from a promising newcomer to an undisputed icon of the genre. As we kick off 2026, the Australian actress isn’t just staying in the spotlight; she’s effectively taking it over. In a recent sit-down with the Hollywood Reporter, Weaving peeled back the curtain on what is shaping up to be her busiest and most high-stakes year to date, headlined by the long-awaited return of Grace in Ready or Not 2.
While the horror community has been clamoring for a sequel to the hide-and-seek cult classic for years, the reality of stepping back into the blood-stained wedding dress is finally here. Weaving’s portrayal of Grace—a woman who refused to be a victim—redefined the 'final girl' trope for a new generation. Ready or Not 2 promises to expand on the twisted mythology of the Le Domas family while keeping the dark, sardonic wit that made the original a sleeper hit at the box office.
The Return of Grace and the Evolution of the Scream Queen
The announcement of Ready or Not 2 isn't just a win for fans of the first film; it’s a testament to Weaving’s ability to carry a franchise. Speaking on the lessons learned from the first installment, Weaving noted how much the character of Grace changed her approach to physical acting. The sequel reportedly ups the ante, moving beyond the confines of the Le Domas estate and into even darker territory. For horror fans, the return of Grace represents a rare kind of sequel where the protagonist is just as terrifying to the villains as they are to her.
Analytically speaking, Weaving’s career trajectory mirrors that of genre legends like Jamie Lee Curtis or Sigourney Weaver. She has found a niche where she can balance extreme physical vulnerability with an explosive, vengeful energy that resonates with modern audiences. Her 'horror-verified' status isn't just about the number of films she does, but the quality and subversion she brings to every script.
A Trio of Terror: Over Your Dead Body and Carolina Caroline
But 2026 isn’t just about the return of old favorites. Weaving is starring in two other major projects that highlight her incredible range. Over Your Dead Body is already generating massive buzz for its unique premise. While specific plot details are being kept under wraps, insiders suggest the film will lean into visceral, psychological horror that challenges the viewer's perception of reality—a playground where Weaving historically thrives.
Then there is Carolina Caroline, a project that is rumored to lean into the Southern Gothic aesthetic. Between these three films, Weaving is showcasing a level of versatility that few actors in the industry can match. Whether she’s battling satanic aristocrats or navigating haunting character studies, her presence on a call sheet has become a definitive seal of quality for horror aficionados worldwide.
Lessons from the Set and a Jason Segel Surprise
Outside of her on-screen antics, Weaving shared some lighter, albeit strange, moments from her journey through Hollywood. One of the more colorful highlights involved her co-star Jason Segel. During the interview, she revealed an eccentric wedding present that Segel helped her arrange. While the gift itself was reportedly 'strange' and perfectly suited to their creative sensibilities, the story highlights the deep-rooted camaraderie Weaving builds on her sets.
Why Weaving is Vital to Modern Horror
As we look toward the rest of the year, it's clear that the 'Samara Weaving Era' is in full swing. Her growth from the satirical violence of The Babysitter to the heavy-hitting productions of 2026 shows a deliberate and successful path. She isn't just taking roles; she is helping to define the aesthetic of 2020s horror. With Ready or Not 2 serving as the centerpiece of her 2026 takeover, we are witnessing the peak of a modern-day legend who isn't afraid to get a little blood on her hands.