Is Smile 3 Happening? Everything We Know So Far

Horror fans, rejoice! The chilling Smile franchise is officially expanding with a third installment. After the commercial success of Smile 2—which grossed over $140 million worldwide and solidified its place as a modern horror juggernaut—Paramount Pictures has greenlit Smile 3, with filming scheduled to begin in 2025 and a projected release in 2026.

Director Parker Finn, the creative force behind the franchise, returns to helm the sequel. Known for his mastery of psychological dread and shocking narrative turns, Finn has hinted that Smile 3 will push the boundaries of the series even further.

While plot details remain tightly guarded, early speculation suggests the film may delve into the origins of “The Entity,” the malevolent force responsible for the curse that drives victims to madness and suicide. This deeper exploration could finally answer lingering questions from the first two films and expand the franchise’s mythology into even darker territory.

The buzz around Smile 3 is already building, with teaser trailers and concept art circulating online. One fan-favorite theory suggests the third film might introduce a new protagonist who uncovers a historical link to the curse—possibly tied to ancient rituals or forgotten folklore. Others believe the sequel could take a meta-horror approach, reflecting on the viral nature of fear itself, especially given the franchise’s strong online presence and meme-worthy marketing campaigns.

With Parker Finn’s commitment to maintaining the franchise’s signature tone—unsettling atmosphere, slow-burn tension, and “you’ll never see it coming” twists—Smile 3 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated horror releases of the decade. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the series, this third chapter promises to deliver the same spine-chilling thrills that made Smile a breakout hit in 2022.