Cruel Summer Returns for Season 3 with Olivia Holt, Hulu Freeform Revival

Cruel Summer is officially returning for a third season, with Hulu and Freeform currently in development and Olivia Holt confirmed to reprise her role as Kate Wallis. Holt is also stepping into an executive producer role alongside Jessica Biel and Michelle Purple, with Cori Uchida and Adam Lash joining as showrunners and executive producers. The original series, which debuted in 2021, focused on the mysterious disappearance of Kate Wallis and the subsequent accusations against Jeanette Turner, unfolding across three summers with a multi-timeline narrative. While the first season was a critical and audience success, the second season took an anthology approach with a new cast and storyline, which did not resonate as well with fans. The revival marks a return to the original characters and storyline, aiming to recapture the suspenseful and emotionally charged dynamic that made the debut season popular. Produced by Lionsgate Television, the new season's release platform is expected to be Hulu and Freeform, although international distribution remains uncertain.