The upcoming horror sequel, now officially titled Orphans, has made significant progress since its announcement a year ago. Dark Castle Entertainment and Lionsgate had greenlit the project back in November 2024. In May 2025, Isabelle Fuhrman, the star known for her role in the series, shared her excitement about the third film, commending the script penned by David Coggeshall and noting that the production was still in its initial phases.
Recently, DiscussingFilm unveiled a behind-the-scenes snapshot from Orphans, signaling that the production of the new installment is underway. Fuhrman will return as Esther in the film, but details about additional cast members or specific plot points remain under wraps. The team confirmed includes Coggeshall as the writer and William Brent Bell as the director.
Little is known about the plot of Orphans, except that Fuhrman, Coggeshall, and Bell are all returning after their collaboration on the 2022 prequel, Orphan: First Kill. In a recent discussion with Bloody Disgusting in April, Fuhrman hinted at the film being an “inbetweenquel,” with the storyline occurring both before and after the events of the original movie.
The prequel, Orphan: First Kill, was released in select theaters and on Paramount+ on August 19, 2022, marking 13 years since the debut of the original film. It received a generally positive critical response, holding a 69% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and grossed $45.6 million worldwide. Its success paved the way for this upcoming sequel.
The narrative of Orphan: First Kill concluded at a juncture that leads directly into Esther’s eventual adoption by the Coleman family in the original film. Should the new film span events between and following the original, it promises to enrich the franchise’s lore substantially. Given the new title, Orphans, it appears that elements from Esther’s past will play a crucial role in her ongoing narrative, possibly revisiting her time at the orphanage and its implications for her future actions.
With production just kicking off, Orphans seems set to introduce fresh twists and expand Esther’s story intriguingly. While specific details about the film’s direction remain vague, the intriguing title and premise suggest that fans can expect a distinctive and expansive addition to the series.
Ava Thornton is an entertainment journalist with a keen eye for the latest in Hollywood, indie films, and streaming trends.
Her work blends insider knowledge with a deep appreciation for storytelling.
