SAW XI (2025)

Initial Announcement and Hype

• Saw XI was originally set for release in September 2024, later postponed to September 26, 2025.

• Kevin Greutert, who directed Saw X, was tapped to return.

• Writers Patrick Melton and Marcus Dunstan (from Saw IV–VII) began drafting a script in early 2024.

• Tobin Bell was expected to reprise his role as John Kramer, continuing the prequel-era timeline.

Fans hoped Saw XI would explore Jigsaw’s deeper philosophies, expand on the events between Saw I and Saw II, and continue the character-driven storytelling of the previous entry.

Behind-the-Scenes Troubles

By March 2025, reports surfaced of production delays and internal conflict within Lionsgate and Twisted Pictures. According to franchise insiders:

• One producer was ready to move forward aggressively.

• Another was reportedly blocking progress due to creative disagreements.

• As a result, the film was quietly removed from Lionsgate’s 2025 release calendar and placed on indefinite hold.

Statements & Speculations

• Patrick Melton (co-writer): Confirmed in interviews that the project has seen “zero progress” since May 2024, despite an ambitious and socially relevant script.

• Tobin Bell: Remains open to returning but has not yet filmed anything for Saw XI.

• Billy the Puppet: A teaser clip featuring the puppet cryptically stated, “The game is never over,” leaving fans guessing.

Franchise in Flux

Despite the delay, Lionsgate has not canceled the movie. However:

• Lionsgate has shifted focus to other horror titles.

• Fan communities fear the franchise may be shelved long-term.

• In June 2025, rumors surfaced that Blumhouse may be involved in future Saw development, having quietly acquired partial rights.

What Comes Next?

• Saw XI currently has no release date, no active production, and no confirmed cast beyond early planning.

• There’s hope that a new direction or studio collaboration could revive the project.

• Fans remain cautiously optimistic, with many calling for a smaller, character-driven story like Saw VI or Saw X.

Final Verdict

SAW XI is not officially canceled, but it’s trapped in a development purgatory. Creative differences, corporate hesitation, and shifting priorities have paused Jigsaw’s next game. But with strong fan demand, a completed script, and Tobin Bell’s enduring popularity, the franchise may still rise again.

Jigsaw’s words still echo: “The game is never over.”