The Five Nights at Freddy’s franchise has always been a box office phenomenon looking for a critical breakthrough, and FNAF 3 might finally be the film that delivers both. The first two entries grossed a combined $536.8 million worldwide despite poor reviews, proving the fanbase’s loyalty is essentially unconditional. Now, with Gary Dauberman, the writer behind IT, The Nun, and Salem’s Lot, taking over scripting duties from franchise creator Scott Cawthon, and Matthew Lillard teasing a script that has everyone genuinely excited, the pieces are falling into place for the third chapter to be something meaningfully different. A Dauberman-written FNAF film with a 2027 production start is the best news this franchise has received since it was first greenlit.
What Lillard Said
Speaking exclusively to Bloody Disgusting in support of Mike Flanagan’s Carrie series, in which Lillard also stars, the actor confirmed that production on Five Nights at Freddy’s 3 is on track to begin in 2027. His exact words, “I know the early version of the script came through and everyone’s really excited about it. And I know they’re moving to the next level, so we will be shooting in 2027.”
The phrase “next level”, used twice, is doing a lot of work there, and it’s clearly intentional. This isn’t a routine sequel update. Something about what Dauberman has delivered has the people who’ve read it genuinely excited.
The Creative Team
As first reported by Bloody Disgusting in June, Gary Dauberman penned the screenplay, replacing Scott Cawthon, who wrote both previous films. Emma Tammi, who directed the first two films, is expected to return behind the camera. Lillard is confirmed back as William Afton alongside Skeet Ulrich, who has also teased his return. As for the rest of the main cast, Josh Hutcherson, Piper Rubio, and Elizabeth Lail, their participation has not yet been confirmed.
