Matthew Lillard and Skeet Ulrich, widely recognized for their memorable roles as Stu Macher and Billy Loomis in Wes Craven`s classic 1996 horror film Scream, are poised to share the silver screen once again. This highly anticipated reunion will take place in Five Nights at Freddy`s 2, the forthcoming sequel to the successful 2023 cinematic adaptation of the popular video game series. While Ulrich`s specific character remains shrouded in mystery, Lillard couldn`t contain his enthusiasm, dropping a tantalizing hint during their recent joint appearance at Silver Scream Con.
“I`m incredibly excited to welcome [Ulrich] into our film family,” Lillard remarked, as reported by Bloody Disgusting. “I had the privilege of seeing his performance this past week, and I can confidently say that audiences will be absolutely thrilled. He`s portraying a truly fantastic character, and if the movie performs well, we`re very much hoping he`ll be back for future installments.” Ulrich warmly reciprocated the sentiment, stating, “Spending time with Matt is always a genuine pleasure; he is, quite honestly, one of the finest and most generous people I know. Our experience collaborating on Five Nights at Freddy`s 2 was, without a doubt, exceptional.”
Lillard is confirmed to reprise his chilling role as William Afton, the sinister architect behind the murderous animatronic creatures, which are famously possessed by the restless spirits of deceased children. During the convention, he also offered significant clues regarding Afton`s eventual, iconic transformation into the formidable entity known as Springtrap. Lillard further elaborated on his deliberate decision to decline voicing Springtrap in the Dead by Daylight video game`s collaboration with Five Nights at Freddy`s, explaining his strong desire to reserve the character`s definitive voice for the cinematic universe. “When the Dead by Daylight team approached me to record Springtrap`s lines,” Lillard recounted, “I made it clear: I`m not bringing Springtrap to life vocally until I fully portray him in the movie. So, the only way you`ll experience my Springtrap is if everyone makes it to theaters on December 5th! And then, who knows, perhaps we`ll even get a third film.”
Five Nights at Freddy`s 2 is set to feature the return of several key cast members from the first film, including Josh Hutcherson as Mike Schmidt, Piper Rubio as Abby Schmidt, and Elizabeth Lail as Vanessa Afton. Exciting new additions to the ensemble cast include Mckenna Grace and Teo Briones, who will be joining as a pair of intrepid paranormal hunters, with veteran actor Wayne Knight also slated for an undisclosed yet pivotal role.
As confirmed by Lillard himself, Five Nights at Freddy`s 2 is scheduled to premiere in theaters on December 5th. Before its highly anticipated cinematic debut, fans on both the East and West coasts of the U.S. will have the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Five Nights at Freddy`s-themed attractions during Universal Studios and Universal Orlando`s immensely popular Halloween Horror Nights events.