Full Breakdown
Gary Dauberman to Write Script for Five Nights at Freddy's 3
6/28/2026, 1:06:01 PM
Core Development Announcement
Blumhouse, Atomic Monster and Universal have confirmed horror writer Gary Dauberman will script the third *Five Nights at Freddy's* film. Emma Tammi, director of the first two entries, is slated to return, while creator Scott Cawthon will again serve as producer. Production may start late 2024 for a 2027 release. The studio also plans to announce casting details at New York Comic Con, mirroring the approach used for the second film.
Background & Context
The 2023 debut earned $291.5 million worldwide and became Blumhouse's biggest ever release at the time; its 2025 sequel added $238.5 million. Both films attracted large audiences but received low critic scores, highlighting a gap between fan enthusiasm and critical appraisal.
Key Figures & Groups
Gary Dauberman, writer of the 2017 ‘IT’ reboot, ‘Annabelle,’ ‘The Nun,’ and upcoming ‘Street Fighter’ and ‘Helldivers’ projects, joins the franchise. Emma Tammi returns as director; Scott Cawthon produces. Blumhouse, Atomic Monster and Universal finance the series.
Data & Statistics
The first two movies total $530 million globally. Rotten Tomatoes shows 33 % critic/85 % audience for film 1 and 17 % critic/82 % audience for film 2; IGN rated them 4/10 and 3/10. Both openings were solid hauls.
Official Statements & Responses
The Hollywood Reporter indicates Emma Tammi will direct if the project proceeds and Scott Cawthon will produce. Blumhouse and Atomic Monster label the sequel a top priority. The film has not been formally announced but is expected to move forward.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have consistently rated the films poorly: Rotten Tomatoes critic scores of 33 % and 17 % contrast with audience scores above 80 %; IGN gave 4/10 and 3/10, reflecting widespread negative reviews.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Skeet Ulrich mistakenly named David Robert Mitchell as writer, later correcting to Gary Dauberman. Sources differ on whether Dauberman will write solo or with co-writers, and no cast members have officially signed on, a detail not confirmed.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I would expect this to go into production near the end of this year, and they will try like hell to get it out by the end of 2027.” — Bleeding Cool
- “Honestly, what Tammi has been able to do with the budgets given has been exceptional.” — Bleeding Cool
- “Five Nights at Freddy's 3 has reportedly tapped It and Annabelle scribe Gary Dauberman to write its script.” — IGN
- “Blumhouse Atomic Monster and Universal may be hoping to even out those scores as Dauberman gives Five Nights at Freddy's 3 some fresh blood.” — IGN
What's Next
Production is anticipated to start in late 2024, with the studio likely to announce a release date and returning cast at New York Comic Con in October. The timeline aligns with the goal of delivering the film before the close of 2027, supporting the studio's strategy to sustain franchise momentum.
