Lionsgate Pushes Ahead with New Leprechaun Film

Lionsgate has officially re-engaged the dormant Leprechaun franchise by hiring screenwriters Patrick Melton and Marcus Dunstan, who previously collaborated on 2022’s *Unhuman* and the 2019 adaptation of *Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark*. The writing duo was confirmed by Deadline. Veteran producers Oren Koules and his son Miles Koules—known for their long-standing involvement with the *Saw* series—are attached as producers.

Gizmodo

Earlier development cycles saw filmmaker Felipe Vargas slated to direct his first feature film for the series, a plan reported in 2023. Prior to Vargas, director Jane Schoenbrun was approached to helm a reboot but was ultimately passed over in favor of the project *I Saw the TV Glow*. Both attempts did not materialize, leaving the franchise in limbo until the current writers and producers were secured.

Gizmodo

The studio’s renewed interest aligns with a broader trend of legacy horror properties returning to theaters, a pattern highlighted by the commercial success of recent *Alien* and *Predator* revivals. Gizmodo notes that Lionsgate likely views the Leprechaun revival as part of this wave, alongside forthcoming projects for *Texas Chainsaw Massacre*, *Nightmare on Elm Street*, and a potential new *Saw* entry.

Gizmodo

While plot details remain under wraps, speculation has arisen about whether actor Warwick Davis, who previously portrayed the titular leprechaun, might reprise his role. No official casting announcements have been made, and the studio has not disclosed a production schedule.

Gizmodo

Lionsgate’s commitment to re-launch the Leprechaun series reflects its strategy to capitalize on nostalgia-driven horror franchises. With a proven writing team and seasoned producers now in place, the project appears poised to move forward pending further development updates.

Gizmodo