Violent Night 2 Release Date Confirmed: When Does Santa Return in 2026?

Yes, “Violent Night 2” is officially happening — and it’s coming to theaters on December 4, 2026.

If you thought Santa couldn’t get any more savage, think again. After the surprise success of 2022’s Violent Night, Universal Pictures and 87North Productions are reloading the sleigh for a sequel that promises even more blood-soaked holiday cheer. Director Tommy Wirkola (Dead Snow, Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters) returns to the helm, with David Harbour once again donning the red suit — and the war hammer.

🎄 What We Know So Far About Violent Night 2

📅 Release Date: December 4, 2026 — perfectly timed to kick off the holiday movie season.

🎅 Cast: David Harbour reprises his role as the grizzled, Norse-inspired Santa Claus. He’ll be joined by new faces including Daniela Melchior (The Suicide Squad), Kristen Bell (The Good Place), Jared Harris (Chernobyl), and Joe Pantoliano (The Matrix).

🧨 Plot Tease: While plot details are tightly guarded, early hints suggest a deeper exploration of Santa’s Viking origins and a new supernatural threat that could end Christmas for good.

🛷 Creative Team: Writers Pat Casey and Josh Miller (the duo behind Sonic the Hedgehog) are back, promising a script that’s just as irreverent, action-packed, and darkly funny as the original.

🔥 Why the Hype Is Real

Violent Night carved out a cult following with its bold blend of holiday spirit and brutal action. With a 74% Rotten Tomatoes score and a global box office haul that far exceeded expectations, the film proved there’s a real appetite for R-rated Christmas chaos. Harbour’s portrayal of a battle-hardened Santa — equal parts jaded warrior and reluctant hero — struck a chord with audiences tired of saccharine seasonal fare.

The sequel aims to expand the mythology, raise the stakes, and deliver even more outrageous set pieces. Think Die Hard meets The Northman, wrapped in tinsel and soaked in eggnog (and maybe a little blood).

🎁 What This Means for Holiday Movie Fans

With Violent Night 2 joining the 2026 holiday lineup, fans of unconventional Christmas movies have something big to look forward to. It’s not just a sequel — it’s a statement: Santa’s not just checking the list, he’s breaking bones with it.

🔔 Mark your calendars — December 4, 2026, is when Santa returns, and this time, he’s bringing reinforcements.