Jessica Rothe Confirms ‘Happy Death Day 3’ Story Is Ready, Awaits Green Light
‘Happy Death Day‘ emerged as an unexpected horror hit in the late 2010s, skillfully combining slasher elements with a time-loop concept that revitalized the genre. The original film from 2017 was followed by ‘Happy Death Day 2U’ in 2019, which ventured deeper into science fiction while keeping Jessica Rothe’s character, Tree Gelbman, at the forefront of the narrative.
For years, fans have been advocating for a third film, and director Christopher Landon has hinted that he has a clear vision for the story’s direction. This ongoing enthusiasm has kept the franchise alive in discussions, even without an official green light from the studios involved.
Rothe recently provided an update on the current status of the project. According to Deadline, she confirmed that Landon has the entire storyline mapped out, and the only hurdle remaining is for Universal and Blumhouse to agree on the logistics necessary to finance and produce the film.
The real challenge for the project lies in studio coordination rather than any creative doubts. Universal and Blumhouse have been busy with a steady stream of horror releases, including original ideas, reboots of classic Universal Monsters, and various franchise expansions. This makes it a matter of finding space in a crowded release schedule rather than a lack of interest in Tree’s journey.
Rothe has emphasized the importance of making the third film the right way. She believes Tree deserves a fitting conclusion, one that could either wrap up her story definitively or pave the way for new possibilities, rather than leaving the franchise in limbo.
Her sentiments have been echoed in more recent interviews. Speaking with ScreenRant at SXSW, Rothe elaborated on her aspirations for the film, suggesting that Landon might envision a shared universe that includes ‘Freaky,’ ‘We Have a Ghost,’ and ‘Scout’s Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse’ alongside ‘Happy Death Day.’ This ambition indicates that Landon’s plans for a third installment could extend beyond merely concluding Tree’s individual arc.
Throughout the years of uncertainty, Rothe has remained closely connected to the franchise, and Landon has publicly stated that they continue to collaborate closely. This makes it unlikely that any future installment would proceed without her involvement. With no plans for a reboot or recasting currently in motion, fans hoping to see Tree’s story continue can find reassurance in knowing that the creative elements seem to be in place.
Whether this will lead to an actual green light is entirely up to Universal and Blumhouse. Until then, Rothe’s message to fans has remained consistent: the story is ready whenever the studios are.
Jessica Rothe gives an update on ‘Happy Death Day 3’ | The Deadline Studio at #TIFF2026 pic.twitter.com/cb2zf4R3rC
— Deadline (@DEADLINE) September 14, 2026
This consistency has become part of the narrative. Rothe has reiterated similar updates across various interviews over the past couple of years, each time stressing that while the creative aspects are settled, the business side is still being worked out behind the scenes. For a franchise that has remained in the spotlight largely through persistence rather than new footage or official announcements, this alone highlights the goodwill surrounding Tree’s story.
As Landon continues to balance other genre projects and Blumhouse and Universal maintain a packed horror schedule, patience is essential for those eager to see a third installment hit theaters. However, as long as Rothe signals her readiness to return, the path for ‘Happy Death Day 3’ remains wide open.
Have something to add? Let us know in the comments.