Freeform and Hulu are reportedly moving forward with a third season of Cruel Summer, with original star Olivia Holt in talks to reprise her role as Kate Wallis.
The anthology thriller series, which became a breakout hit for the network in 2021, is eyeing a return after its sophomore season wrapped last July.
According to Deadline, Holt’s potential comeback marks a significant shift for the series, which adopted an anthology format with an entirely new cast and storyline for its second season. The actress previously earned critical praise for her portrayal of Kate Wallis, a popular high school student who goes missing in the show’s debut season.
Cruel Summer‘s first season, set across three timelines in the 1990s, followed the aftermath of Kate’s disappearance and her eventual rescue from the home of assistant principal Martin Harris (Blake Lee). The narrative explored the complex relationship between Kate and Jeanette Turner (Chiara Aurelia), a fellow teen accused of knowing about Kate’s captivity.
Season 2 departed from this storyline entirely, introducing new characters and shifting to a Y2K-era setting with a mystery revolving around a love triangle and tragedy.
Network executives have not yet officially confirmed the renewal or Holt’s involvement. The series is produced by Entertainment One and counts Jessica Biel among its executive producers.
The reported third season would likely premiere sometime in 2025, though no production timeline has been has been announced.
