The story of the fan-favourite character Aunt Gladys from ‘Weapons’ is set to expand with a prequel, as screenwriter Zach Shields joins Zach Cregger to co-write the new project, tentatively titled ‘Gladys’.
The film is being produced by New Line and Warner Bros., following the immense success of the original horror hit Weapons.
Weapons became a box-office sensation, earning $270 million globally and winning Amy Madigan an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of the sinister, child-stealing Gladys. The performance also earned Madigan a Critics Choice Award and a SAG-AFTRA Actor Award, cementing the character’s cult status.
At the Oscars, Madigan confirmed her enthusiasm for returning to the role, emphasising her trust in Cregger’s creative vision. While details of the prequel’s plot remain under wraps, it is expected to explore how Gladys transformed into the deranged, ginger-curled, glasses-wearing figure that became a Halloween favourite in 2025.
The hiring of Shields continues his ongoing collaboration with Warner Bros., following his work on the Godzilla and Kong franchises, including Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, Godzilla vs. Kong, and Godzilla: King of the Monsters. He has also contributed to Universal’s Krampus and Apple TV’s Monarch: Legacy of Monsters.
Production on Gladys is backed by Vertigo Entertainment’s Roy Lee and Miri Yoon, with Cregger returning as co-writer and producer.
