Dark Castle Entertainment and Lionsgate have officially announced Orphan 3, the third film in the cult horror series. Isabelle Fuhrman will reprise her iconic role as Esther.
Orphan: First Kill writer David Coggeshall (The Family Plan) and director William Brent Bell (The Boy franchise) are also returning. Lionsgate will launch the project at the American Film Market.
Plot details for the third installment remain under wraps, with filming scheduled to begin in 2025.
In a statement, Norman Golightly, Co-CEO of Dark Castle Entertainment, said, “Dark Castle is excited to announce another terrifying chapter in the Orphan saga.” Golightly added, “With the past success of the first two movies and another thrilling storyline, we are confident that Orphan 3 will be a must-see movie for both current fans of the franchise and new fans alike.”
The Orphan franchise has grossed a combined total of $125 million worldwide to date. The first film—released in 2009—became a cult hit and follows a couple who adopt a nine-year-old girl after losing their baby. Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, the first film starred Vera Farmiga, Peter Sarsgaard, and a young Isabelle Fuhrman. The film opened with $12.8 million domestically and ultimately grossed $41.5 million in the U.S.—nearing $78 million worldwide.
The prequel, Orphan: First Kill, follows Fuhrman’s character, Leena, as she escapes an Estonian psychiatric facility by pretending to be the missing daughter of a wealthy family. Released in 2022, Orphan: First Kill debuted simultaneously in theaters and on Paramount+—grossing over $45 million worldwide.
Produced by Dark Castle in partnership with Alex Mace from Gnosis Films. David Leslie Johnson-McGoldrick will serve as an executive producer, with Lionsgate managing international sales.
Fuhrman, known for The Hunger Games, The Novice, and Masters of Sex, is represented by UTA and Luber Roklin. Bell, recognized for Lord of Misrule, The Devil Inside, and Stay Alive, is represented by CAA and Range Media Partners.
The release date for Orphan 3 is to be announced (TBA).
Source: Variety
