After nearly two decades apart, the Wayans brothers are resurrecting the Scary Movie franchise, and they’re not coming alone. Anna Faris and Regina Hall will return as Cindy and Brenda, bringing back the iconic duo for the first time since 2013.
A Double Reunion
Marlon, Shawn, and Keenen Ivory Wayans, who created the original parody series in 2000, are teaming up once again to co-write the script with longtime collaborator Rick Alvarez. The upcoming film marks their first joint Scary Movie project in 18 years. Keenen, who directed the first two installments, will serve as producer.
The reunion also extends to Faris and Hall, who became fan favorites for their outrageous antics in the first four films. In a joint statement, the actresses said, “We can’t wait to bring Brenda and Cindy back to life and be reunited with our great friends Keenen, Shawn and Marlon—three men we’d literally die for (in Brenda’s case, again).”
New Chapter, Familiar Faces
Michael Tiddes, best known for directing A Haunted House, Naked and Sextuplets, will helm the project. Tiddes started his career as an assistant on White Chicks and has maintained a close working relationship with the Wayans ever since.
Miramax, under its first-look deal with Paramount, is producing, with Jonathan Glickman, Alexandra Loewy, and Thomas Zadra as executive producers. Production is slated to begin in October, targeting a June 12, 2026, worldwide theatrical release.
A Genre Ready for Roast
The timing couldn’t be more fitting. Horror has dominated the box office in recent years, and the franchise’s trademark blend of slapstick and satire could be a welcome antidote to the current wave of grim slashers and supernatural thrillers. As Marlon Wayans put it last fall, “After nearly 20 years, the Wayans brothers are finally going to give the fans what they’ve been asking for … a return to the Scary Movie franchise!”
A Billion-Dollar Legacy
The Scary Movie films have grossed nearly $900 million worldwide. The original 2000 release broke records as one of the highest-grossing R-rated horror comedies of its time, opening with $42.5 million. While later sequels varied in critical reception, the first two, created under the Wayans’ guidance, remain cult favorites.
For Faris, the decision to return was clear. In a 2024 interview, she said she’d only reprise her role if Hall joined her. “We would make each other giggle all day long,” Faris said. “Regina Hall would be my answer. And money. But mostly all Regina!”
With the original creative team back in place, the Scary Movie franchise seems ready to scream, and laugh, its way back into theaters.
