The cult-hit Sharknado franchise is officially returning, as The Asylum has confirmed the development of a new prequel titled Sharknado Origins. This marks the seventh instalment in the series, arriving years after the original run ended in 2018. The new project promises a fresh storyline that explores how the famous disaster saga first began.
Production for the prequel is expected to start later this year. The studio plans to release the film in the summer of 2026, giving fans time to build excitement for the return of one of television’s most unconventional hits. Director Anthony Ferrante, who directed all six earlier films, is coming back to lead the new instalment.
Casting details have not been revealed yet. However, the story will focus on younger versions of Fin Shepherd and April Wexler. These characters were originally portrayed by Ian Ziering and Tara Reid and became central to the success of Sharknado over the years.
Sharknado Origins follows teenage Fin and April during what begins as a perfect summer. Their peaceful days take a dramatic turn when a huge offshore funnel cloud forms and releases airborne sharks. This event marks the creation of the first-ever Sharknado, setting the stage for the chaos that fans know from the original films.
The first Sharknado movie debuted in 2013 on Syfy and quickly became a viral sensation. Its wild concept, combined with its low-budget production and strong online buzz, turned it into an unexpected hit. The success led to five sequels, several spinoffs, and many celebrity cameo appearances. At its height, Sharknado 2: The Second One attracted nearly four million viewers, making it the top performer in the franchise.
The Asylum, known for its fast-paced productions and “mockbuster” films, continues to expand its catalogue. The company is also featured in a recent documentary titled Mockbuster, which won the audience award at the Adelaide Film Festival and is set for a U.S. release next year.
With Sharknado Origins, The Asylum hopes to revive one of its most successful global properties and deliver a new wave of shark-filled action for fans around the world.
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