Violent Night 2 Is on the Way: Tommy Wirkola and David Harbour Return for More Christmas Carnage

If you still have flashes of Violent Night in your memory — Santa with a hammer, shattered skulls, and burning Christmas trees — then hold on to your mulled wine. It’s official: Violent Night 2 is coming, and both director Tommy Wirkola and David Harbour are suiting up once again. Universal Pictures is aiming for a brutal December premiere in 2026.

Santa — Now With Viking Blood and a Western Attitude

The first film was an absurd and effective cocktail of Home Alone, Die Hard, and Bad Santa. David Harbour immediately became a cult hero as the brash, booze-guzzling, hammer-throwing Santa who took no prisoners. And lucky for us, he’s ready for another round of brutal gift delivery.

According to screenwriters Pat Casey and Josh Miller, this one will be bigger, wilder — and not just a repeat of the “Santa trapped in a rich guy’s mansion” setup. Hints are pointing toward western elements and a deeper dive into Santa’s background as a former Viking. Yes, you read that right. Viking.

This will be Norse mythology meets Christmas splatter, with a splash of Dirty Harry.

Mrs. Claus Incoming?

There’s heavy speculation that Mrs. Claus will make an appearance this time — and some big names are being floated. Charlize Theron and Noomi Rapace are mentioned as possible contenders, and honestly, we’re not complaining. Theron with a sword wrapped in tinsel or Rapace battling a gang of evil elves? Yes, please.

Picture it: a power couple in red and white with snow, sweat, and slow-motion brawls. This isn’t Christmas — it’s a war zone.

Filming and Release

Filming is set to begin in September in Winnipeg, and Wirkola (known for Dead Snow, Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters, and What Happened to Monday) is back in the director’s chair. The production is being helmed by Kelly McCormick and David Leitch from 87North Productions, previously behind Nobody and the John Wick franchise. You know — people who deliver gut-punching violence.

The release is scheduled for December 4, 2026. And even though it feels far away, there’s already something to look forward to — especially if you’re tired of the usual sugar-coated holiday specials.

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