‘M3GAN’ Spinoff ‘SOULM8TE’ Removed from Universal Release Schedule

Universal Pictures pulls the ‘M3GAN’ spinoff ‘SOULM8TE’ from its scheduled January 9, 2026 theatrical release date. The studio plans to shop the project to other distributors. Kate Dolan directs the erotic thriller expanding the artificial intelligence horror universe.

The original ‘M3GAN’ grossed over $181 million worldwide in 2023. Blumhouse and Atomic Monster produced the film, which introduced the viral doll character. A sequel, ‘M3GAN 2.0’, remains set for June 27, 2026.

‘SOULM8TE’ centers on a man acquiring an advanced AI android to cope with loss. The companion evolves into a dangerous entity. The script comes from Dolan based on a story by James Wan, Ingrid Bisu, and Rafael Jordan.

Blumhouse produces alongside Wan for Atomic Monster. The merger of the two companies consolidated horror development pipelines. Universal previously distributed the franchise entries.

The removal follows production completion earlier in 2025. No official reason has been provided for the calendar shift. Industry sources indicate strategic reevaluation of release timing.

‘M3GAN’ spawned cultural phenomena including dance memes and merchandise. Allison Williams starred in the first film with Violet McGraw. Gerard Johnstone directed the debut installment.

The spinoff represents an anthology approach to the shared universe. Future expansions could explore additional AI themes. No new release window has been announced.

Universal maintains a slate of horror titles including ‘Wolf Man’ in January 2026. The studio collaborates frequently with Blumhouse on genre projects. ‘The Black Phone 2’ also approaches release.

Shopping the film allows potential partnerships with streamers or rival studios. Paramount and Warner Bros. have acquired similar genre fare recently. The decision aligns with evolving distribution strategies.

‘SOULM8TE’ cast details remain limited. Production wrapped under the working title earlier this year. The project marked Dolan’s feature followup to ‘You Are Not My Mother’.

The ‘M3GAN’ franchise continues building on technological anxiety narratives. Critical reception for the original reached 93 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. Audience scores exceeded box office expectations.