Renowned horror auteur Mike Flanagan is set to embark on yet another adaptation of a Stephen King classic with the upcoming television series based on Carrie. King’s debut novel, published in 1974, holds special significance as it was also the first of his works to be adapted for the screen. The narrative follows a bullied 16-year-old girl who discovers her telekinetic abilities, ultimately using them for revenge during prom night. While the original novel captivated readers, the 1976 film adaptation solidified King’s prominence in the horror genre.
Despite numerous adaptations of King’s vast library, Carrie remains one of his most reinterpreted stories. The original film directed by Brian De Palma, followed by a sequel in 1999, and remakes in 2002 and 2013, showcase its lasting appeal. Yet, Flanagan’s series aims to genuinely honor the book, exploring themes and character dynamics that past adaptations have overlooked. The novel’s conclusion opens doors to explore the world beyond Carrie, making Flanagan an ideal visionary for this project.
Latest Updates on Mike Flanagan’s Carrie
Exciting Casting Developments
Following the green light for this Amazon project, recent reports confirm that significant casting decisions are underway. Shortly after it was revealed that Summer H. Howell was being considered for the titular role of Carrie, Siena Agudong, known for her work in Resident Evil, has been cast as Sue Snell. This character, integral to the plot, evolves from a bully to a crucial ally, suggesting a deeper exploration of her arc in the series.
Confirmation of Mike Flanagan’s Carrie Development
Official Announcement of the Adaptation
Mike Flanagan has established himself as a definitive interpreter of Stephen King’s stories, having received acclaim for adaptations like Doctor Sleep and The Life of Chuck. His take on Carrie was first announced in October 2024, with Amazon providing an official order by April 2025. The series will be exclusive to Prime Video, although detailed information regarding plot and additional cast remains limited as of now. By November 2024, Flanagan had confirmed that the project was already progressing swiftly through the writing phase.
In addition to Carrie, Flanagan is also working on adapting King’s The Dark Tower. He has stated that the writing team was already six weeks into the process when he shared the latest updates. Flanagan is set to assume multiple roles as producer, writer, and director for select episodes. The series is planned to consist of eight episodes, with filming slated to commence in summer 2025, aiming for a potential release in 2026.
Below is a summary of previous adaptations of Carrie:
| Film | Release Year | Rotten Tomatoes Score |
|---|---|---|
| Carrie | 1976 | 94% |
| The Rage: Carrie 2 | 1999 | 23% |
| Carrie | 2002 | 20% |
| Carrie | 2013 | 51% |
Details on the Carrie Cast
Initial Casting Announcements
Although Summer H. Howell remains unconfirmed for the lead role, she is being considered for the role of Carrie—a character that has been portrayed by notable actresses over the decades. Her relative anonymity in the industry could prove to be an asset, allowing her to deliver a fresh take on a complex character long seen through the lenses of acclaimed stars like Sissy Spacek and Chloë Grace Moretz.
Meanwhile, Siena Agudong’s casting as Sue Snell shows a significant departure from previous portrayals of the character. While her experience in horror is limited compared to Howell, Sue’s transformation from antagonist to ally is vital, suggesting that Flanagan’s adaptation will delve deeper into character development and relationships.
Insights into Carrie Story Elements
What Changes Can Audiences Expect?
The story of Carrie has seen numerous adaptations since its publication over half a century ago, and Hollywood continues to revisit this narrative. Currently, details regarding Flanagan’s adaptation remain scarce, yet it promises to stay true to the essence while adding fresh perspectives. One of the novel’s intriguing aspects—the hint of other telekinetic individuals—has mostly been overlooked in prior retellings, leaving an open door for exploration.
The logline encapsulates the essence of the story:
A bold and timely reimagining of the story of misfit high-schooler Carrie White, who has spent her life in seclusion with her domineering mother. After her father’s sudden and untimely death, Carrie finds herself contending with the alien landscape of public High School, a bullying scandal that shatters her community, and the emergence of mysterious telekinetic powers.
While previous adaptations touched upon the epistolary aspects of the novel, Flanagan’s series is expected to leverage its format to deepen character interactions and provide substantial context for pivotal moments in Carrie’s life. Given the opportunity for longer storytelling through eight episodes, Flanagan will likely include nuances and minor plot points that were previously truncated, promising a richer viewing experience.