Blumhouse head Jason Blum once again embraced his love for theatrics at CinemaCon 2025, arriving on stage dressed as one of the infamous animatronic characters from Five Nights at Freddy’s. The surprise entrance added an extra layer of excitement as he debuted the first trailer for Five Nights at Freddy’s 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the 2023 horror hit.
Blum, known for his playful approach to marketing, also shared images of past costumes, including his takes on the Wicked Witch from The Wizard of Oz and M3GAN. He quipped about his frugality, joking that he was in the animatronic suit throughout the first film to save money.
Exclusive Theatrical Release Confirmed
Addressing concerns from theater owners, Blum assured the audience that unlike the first film, which debuted simultaneously in theaters and on Peacock, Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 will be released exclusively in theaters. This news was met with applause, as many exhibitors were previously disappointed with the streaming strategy of the original film.
Trailer Teases More Mystery and Horror
The trailer for the sequel builds on the eerie atmosphere of its predecessor. Josh Hutcherson returns as Mike, the troubled security guard, alongside Piper Rubio, Elizabeth Lail, and Matthew Lillard. In the footage, Lail’s character, Vanessa, ominously warns Mike, “They’re out there.” When he asks for clarification, she replies, “Everywhere.” The clip also hints at the animatronics venturing beyond the pizzeria, appearing in schools and public places, adding a new dimension of terror.
Returning Cast and Creative Team
Emma Tammi, who directed the first installment, is back at the helm for the sequel, co-writing the script with Five Nights at Freddy’s creator Scott Cawthon and Seth Cuddeback. Lillard reprises his role, now revealed as the villain, and fans can expect more of his sinister presence in the follow-up.
Box Office Success and Franchise Momentum
The first Five Nights at Freddy’s movie was a major success, despite launching on Peacock alongside its theatrical release. It earned an impressive $80 million domestically in its opening weekend, setting a record for Blumhouse, and ultimately grossed $137.2 million in the U.S. and $291 million worldwide. The film also became Peacock’s most-watched release within its first five days at the time, surpassing major titles like Halloween Ends and The Super Mario Bros. Movie.
Release Date Set for December 5
With its predecessor proving to be a box office powerhouse and the sequel teasing an even more thrilling storyline, Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 is shaping up to be another major horror hit. Fans of the franchise can mark their calendars for December 5, when the film arrives exclusively in theaters.
Also Read: Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse Swings Into Theaters on June 4, 2027
