Ridley Scott’s ‘Dog Stars’ Sci-Fi Epic Pushed to Summer 2026
Ridley Scott’s highly anticipated adaptation of 'The Dog Stars,' starring Jacob Elordi, has been postponed to late summer 2026, while 'Ready or Not 2: Here I Come' will now premiere in March of the same year.
20th Century Studios and Disney have officially shifted the release date for Ridley Scott’s upcoming project, The Dog Stars. The film, which was first announced by Scott in November 2024 as his next major work after Gladiator II, is based on Peter Heller’s acclaimed 2012 science fiction novel. The story unfolds in a post-pandemic world, where civilization has been decimated and survival is a daily struggle.
Jacob Elordi is set to lead the cast, bringing to life a man who, along with his loyal dog and a solitary gun, navigates the ruins of humanity. The plot takes a turn when he intercepts a mysterious transmission, hinting at the presence of outsiders or possible invaders, setting the stage for a tense and emotional journey.
Production Delays and New Release Timeline
Originally slated for an earlier debut, The Dog Stars has now been rescheduled for a late summer 2026 premiere. This change comes as part of a broader reshuffling of release dates by the studios. In the wake of this adjustment, Ready or Not 2: Here I Come will now hit theaters in March 2026, moving up in the calendar to fill the gap left by Scott’s film.
The decision to delay the release reflects the studios’ commitment to ensuring the film meets high expectations, both in terms of production quality and audience anticipation. Fans of Scott’s work and the original novel will have to wait a bit longer, but the promise of a gripping, visually stunning adaptation remains strong.
Adapting a Post-Apocalyptic Vision
Scott’s adaptation aims to capture the haunting atmosphere and emotional depth of Heller’s novel. The narrative centers on themes of isolation, hope, and the enduring bond between man and dog in the face of overwhelming odds. The film’s setting—a world ravaged by a deadly pandemic—resonates with contemporary audiences, adding a layer of relevance to its speculative fiction roots.
With a talented cast and a visionary director at the helm, The Dog Stars is poised to deliver a powerful cinematic experience. As anticipation builds, audiences can look forward to a story that explores the limits of survival and the search for connection in a fractured world.