Tommy Wirkola Returns to Helm 'Violent Night 2'

Summary

• Tommy Wirkola is officially returning to direct Violent Night 2 with David Harbour confirmed to reprise his role as Santa Claus
• Universal Pictures has set the release date for December 4, 2026
• The film is slated to begin production in Winnipeg in September

Get ready for more festive carnage. Director Tommy Wirkola is officially returning to direct Violent Night 2, with Universal Pictures. The confirmation comes amidst strong anticipation for the sequel to the cult-favorite R-rated holiday action film.

David Harbour is confirmed to reprise his role as the ass-kicking Santa Claus. While plot details are still under wraps, screenwriters Pat Casey and Josh Miller, who are also returning, have teased a bigger scale for the sequel. They’ve hinted that Santa won’t be trapped in a mansion again, and that the film might incorporate a “little Western influence” while delving further into Santa’s Viking backstory. There’s also been widespread speculation about the potential introduction of Mrs. Claus, with names like Charlize Theron and Noomi Rapace being floated as dream casting choices.

Universal Pictures and producers Kelly McCormick and David Leitch (87North Productions) are aiming for a September production start in Winnipeg Violent Night 2 is set to release on December 4, 2026.