Revived Disney Series Set to Return With a Shocking New Season 3
If you’ve been following the evolution of streaming and network television, you’ve probably noticed the rise of series that make big comebacks after being prematurely canceled. What was once a quiet casualty of the entertainment world often finds a way to resurrect itself thanks to the rise of digital platforms and a loyal fan base.
Such is the case with Cruel Summer, the Freeform teen drama that captivated viewers with its twists and turns, and now, it appears that the series is about to get a third season—after being canceled just a few years ago.
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For those who might have missed it, Cruel Summer took the world by storm when it premiered in 2021. The mystery thriller set in the ‘90s sparked a cult following, and many fans couldn’t get enough of the compelling storylines. But after two seasons, the show was abruptly canceled in 2023. Or so it seemed.
The Unlikely Return of Cruel Summer
Following its second season, Cruel Summer seemed to fade from the spotlight. Season one had been a breakout hit, becoming Freeform’s most-watched series debut, with fans left eagerly anticipating the next chapter. Season two, however, didn’t resonate with audiences as strongly.
Despite offering a fresh storyline with new characters, it struggled to maintain the same level of critical acclaim and audience engagement that made season one so popular. As a result, Freeform made the tough decision to cancel the show in 2023.
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Yet, it looks like the story isn’t over for Cruel Summer. According to a recent report from Variety, the series is getting a second chance. Fans of the show are about to get another dose of mystery and drama, as Cruel Summer is reportedly returning for a third season.
This time, it looks like the focus will shift back to at least one character fans originally fell in love with, Kate Wallis, played by Olivia Holt.
Season 3 Details: What We Know So Far
Variety has confirmed that Hulu and Freeform are working together to bring back Cruel Summer with a third season in development. Olivia Holt will return to reprise her role as Kate Wallis, the beautiful and popular girl whose disappearance is at the center of the drama.
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Holt will also executive produce the new season, further cementing her integral role in the show’s revival.
The news comes as a welcome surprise to fans who were left wondering whether the series would ever return. Not only will the original star come back to the show, but Cruel Summer’s showrunners and executive producers will also include Cori Uchida and Adam Lash.
Variety has learned exclusively from sources that a third season of Cruel Summer is currently in development at Hulu and Freeform.
Olivia Holt would star in and executive produce the new season, reprising the role of Kate Wallis from Season 1 of the series. In addition, Cori Uchida and Adam Lash have boarded as showrunners and executive producers. Jessica Biel and Michelle Purple would once again executive produce via Iron Ocean. Lionsgate TV is the studio.
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At this time, Disney has not provided further official comment on the revival, so fans will need to wait for more details to emerge. Questions still linger, including whether any other actors from the first season will return alongside Holt, and whether the new season will pick up where the story left off or if it will jump ahead in time.
While no concrete details about the storyline for season three have been confirmed, one thing is for sure: the return of Cruel Summer is creating a buzz. With season three reportedly bringing back Kate Wallis and likely continuing the dark themes of the first season, we can expect to dive deeper into her story and see how much more she has yet to overcome.
Are you excited for the return of Cruel Summer? Which character are you most eager to see again? Will the series’ return live up to its previous seasons, or will it be a fresh start for a new chapter? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! And don’t forget to check back for updates as more details about the new season come to light.
