Saw Franchise Faces Uncertain Future as Production Halts

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — After two decades and numerous installments, the future of the Saw horror franchise is in jeopardy. According to a verified source close to the production of the anticipated Saw XI, the film has effectively been canceled despite prior announcements of its September 2025 release.

“It’s totally dead,” the source revealed. “It’s 100% over. Almost a year now.” Following the mixed results of Saw X in 2023, Lionsgate had expressed plans for a sequel, even revealing a release date and gathering a familiar creative team.

Director Kevin Greutert, who has been part of the franchise since its inception, was set to return along with returning stars Tobin Bell, Shawnee Smith, and Costas Mandylor. However, production plans fell apart after internal disputes emerged among producers. “Everything went sideways in January 2024,” the source explained, while adding, “the producers started fighting.”

With tensions rising, one producer attempted to continue progressing with filming while the other created roadblocks, stalling the project entirely. While many hoped Lionsgate would intervene to mend the disagreements, the insider suggested that the studio lacked a mediator who could stabilize the situation.

As a result, the Saw narrative remains unresolved with several plot threads left hanging. The halt of Saw XI hints at a larger issue regarding the franchise, potentially signaling the end of Jigsaw’s legacy. “Lionsgate is considering selling the franchise, but even that would mean starting over,” the source noted.

As fans of the series grapple with this disappointing news, the franchise appears to be a victim not of traditional horror but rather of industry disputes, leaving many questions about its viability moving forward. As one source put it, “Greed and ego won.”