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Sony’s reboot of “I Know What You Did Last Summer” has found its principal cast
Camila Mendes, Madelyn Cline, Sarah Pidgeon, Tyriq Withers, and Jonah Hauer-King are in talks to join the cast of the 1997 horror flick’s redux. The original film followed four young friends bound by a tragic accident who are reunited when they find themselves being stalked by a hook-wielding maniac. The film became a cult classic and earned over $125 million worldwide, leading to the sequel “I Still Know What You Did Last Summer.” OG stars Freddie Prinze Jr. and Jennifer Love Hewitt are in talks to return.
Jennifer Kaytin Robinson (“Do Revenge”) is directing the film, which is written by Sam Lansky and Kaytin Robinson off a draft by Leah McKendrick. Neal Moritz is producing. Sony Pictures will release the film in theaters on July 18, 2025.
The new faces of horror: Meet the cast
“Riverdale” alum Camila Mendes most recently starred in romantic comedies “Upgraded” and “Música.” Other credits include “Dangerous Lies,” “Palm Springs,” and “Do Revenge.” Mendes brings a fresh yet familiar face to the horror genre, promising to add a unique twist to the character she portrays.
Madelyn Cline stars as Sarah Cameron on Netflix’s popular series “Outer Banks,” which recently wrapped its fourth season. In film, she’s also appeared in Rian Johnson’s “Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery” and Focus Features’ “Boy Erased.” Television credits include “Stranger Things” and “Vice Principals.” Cline’s versatility in both drama and thriller genres makes her an exciting addition to the cast.
Jonah Hauer-King recently starred as Prince Eric in Disney’s live-action version of “The Little Mermaid” with Halle Bailey. Other credits include “The Tattooist of Auschwitz” and “The Flatshare.” Hauer-King’s experience in both historical dramas and fantasy films will bring depth to his role in this horror reboot.
Tyriq Withers, best known for his work on FX series “Atlanta,” most recently wrapped “Him” for Universal Pictures and Monkeypaw Productions. He’s also had recurring roles on “Tell Me Lies” and ”The Game” for Hulu and Paramount+. Withers’ background in intense, character-driven narratives will add a layer of complexity to the film.
Sarah Pidgeon is currently starring on Broadway in “Stereophonic,” reprising the role of Diana which she originated off-Broadway at Playwrights Horizons. Her performance earned her a 2024 Tony nomination for best performance by an actress in a featured role in a play. On the TV side, Pidgeon appeared in “Tiny Beautiful Things” and “The Wilds.” Up next, she will star in David Siegel/Scott McGehee’s film “The Friend” with Naomi Watts and Bill Murray. Pidgeon’s theatrical experience will undoubtedly enhance the dramatic tension in the film.
A look back at the original: Why “I Know What You Did Last Summer” became a cult classic
The original ”I Know What You Did Last Summer” struck a chord with audiences in 1997, blending teen drama with slasher horror in a way that felt fresh and engaging. The film’s success can be attributed to its relatable characters, suspenseful plot, and the chilling presence of the hook-wielding antagonist. The movie’s exploration of guilt, secrecy, and the consequences of one’s actions resonated with viewers, making it a staple in the horror genre.
Freddie Prinze Jr. and Jennifer Love Hewitt, who are in talks to return, brought a sense of authenticity and vulnerability to their roles, which helped ground the film’s more fantastical elements. Their potential return adds a layer of nostalgia and continuity that fans of the original will undoubtedly appreciate.
The creative minds behind the reboot
Jennifer Kaytin Robinson, known for her work on “Do Revenge,” is set to direct the reboot. Her unique vision and ability to blend humor with darker themes make her an ideal choice for this project. The screenplay, co-written by Sam Lansky and Robinson, promises to bring a fresh perspective while honoring the original’s legacy.
Neal Moritz, who produced the original film, returns to produce the reboot, ensuring that the new film will maintain the spirit of its predecessor while introducing new elements to captivate modern audiences.
What to expect from the reboot
With a talented cast and creative team, the reboot of ”I Know What You Did Last Summer” is poised to be a thrilling addition to the horror genre. Fans can expect a blend of suspense, drama, and unexpected twists that will keep them on the edge of their seats. The film’s release on July 18, 2025, is highly anticipated, and it will be interesting to see how the new cast and crew reinterpret this classic story for a new generation.
For those eager to revisit the original or get a taste of what’s to come, check out the trailer for the 1997 film here.
Reflecting on the enduring appeal of horror reboots
Horror reboots often face the challenge of living up to their predecessors while offering something new and exciting. The enduring appeal of these films lies in their ability to tap into universal fears and anxieties, making them relevant across different generations. The reboot of “I Know What You Did Last Summer” has the potential to do just that, blending nostalgia with contemporary storytelling to create a film that resonates with both old fans and new viewers.
As we await the release of this highly anticipated film, it’s worth reflecting on why stories like these continue to captivate us. Perhaps it’s the thrill of the unknown, the exploration of our deepest fears, or the cathartic experience of facing danger from the safety of our seats. Whatever the reason, one thing is certain: the horror genre, with its endless capacity for reinvention, will always have a place in our hearts and minds.
