Elvira joins Pumpkinhead 2 as a mysterious witch
Get ready for a spellbinding cinematic journey, because the world of horror is about to get a dose of pure, nostalgic magic. The incomparable Cassandra Peterson, best known to millions as the Mistress of the Dark, is stepping into the shadows of R.L. Stine’s universe for the highly anticipated sequel, Pumpkinhead 2.
Peterson will take on the role of Cassandra, a witch who is not only wise and deeply connected to ancient magic but who must confront the dark forces threatening the town of Redhaven. She will navigate the sacrifices and dark secrets necessary to stop a looming curse.
Peterson herself embraced the role, noting how perfectly suited it was for her. “R.L. Stine and I have been in the business of scaring kids for a long time, so joining Pumpkinhead 2 was such a treat,” she shared, calling Cassandra the perfect ‘witchy’ role.
This casting brings together two titans of horror fandom. Peterson cemented her legacy as the legendary Elvira through her iconic television appearances and hosting, while R.L. Stine is the master storyteller behind classic titles like Goosebumps, Fear Street, and the inspiration for the original Pumpkinhead films.
The pairing promises a delightful blend of vintage fright and contemporary storytelling. Josh Van Houdt, Tubi’s executive, sees this combination as a brilliant opportunity to merge cherished nostalgia with fresh horror concepts for the streaming audience.
So, what exactly does R.L. Stine’s Pumpkinhead 2 entail? The story follows Sam (Bean Reid) and Becka (Adeline Lo) as they race against time to halt a renewed Pumpkinhead curse threatening the entire town of Redhaven. When a student named Evan stumbles upon a forbidden spellbook, his actions accidentally revive an ancient curse. Pumpkin-headed children from past sacrifices begin to rise, intent on claiming Redhaven during the Harvest Festival. Their only hope lies with Cassandra, the mysterious witch, who is determined to destroy the dark book and put the curse to rest.
While the first film introduced Sam as a teenager grappling with the disappearance of his brother Finn, this sequel escalates the stakes, forcing the young protagonists to face a far more ancient and potent evil.
R.L. Stine’s Pumpkinhead 2 is set to premiere on Tubi on October 9, 2026, as part of the service’s “Terror on Tubi” Halloween lineup.
The film is again helmed by director Jem Garrard, who brought the original vision to life. Fans can look forward to further details at the upcoming New York Comic Con on October 11, where Garrard will be joined by Tubi Chief Content Officer Adam Lewinson and other industry figures.
For now, the biggest addition to the Pumpkinhead franchise is undoubtedly the addition of Elvira, ready to add a layer of mystique to the fright fest. Prepare yourselves for a Halloween watch that is guaranteed to be both spooky and utterly unforgettable.