The filmmaker and storyteller behind The Conjuring universe, James Wan, has sparked renewed talk about whether the next installment might mark the end of the long-running horror saga. In a candid conversation conducted by Collider, Wan touched on the future of The Conjuring and what fans might expect as the franchise continues to evolve.
Wan emphasized that his current focus is squarely on finishing the latest tape, a project that he and his team approach with careful pacing. The crew has always treated The Conjuring as more than just scary scenes; it is a character-driven experience where emotional resonance and a cohesive narrative drive the suspense. For Wan and his collaborators, rushing a new chapter could undermine the impact they hope to preserve, so they are weighing timing, tone, and the emotional arcs before any new release. This stance reflects a broader philosophy that a successful horror entry must earn its scares by connecting with audiences on a human level, not merely by escalating shocks. The director described the path forward as a likely, but not guaranteed, outcome that depends on how the story feels at the moment of truth. Fans should read this as a cautious, ongoing assessment rather than a definitive timetable. The conversation hints at a future that remains uncertain until the creative team is confident about delivering a finished work that satisfies both fear and sentiment. The possibility that this project could represent a concluding chapter is kept intentionally open, with the door left ajar for new twists if the right inspiration arrives. The notion of ending a beloved run comes with the practical question of whether new installments must live up to a legacy that many viewers associate with Ed and Lorraine Warren and the franchise’s signature blend of dread and heart. Wan’s comments leave room for interpretation, suggesting that the final call will hinge on the emotional truth of the story rather than a predetermined plan (Collider).
Since its debut in 2013, The Conjuring has centered on the real-life paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, a couple whose work has become a cultural touchstone within modern horror. On screen, the Warrens are portrayed by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga, bringing a grounded dynamic to the terrifying events that unfold around them. The original film spawned a pair of direct sequels and, over the years, expanded into a broader universe of spinoffs and related titles. This expansion has included ventures like Annabelle’s Curse and The Nun’s Curse, along with their respective sequels, all contributing to a notable footprint in the horror genre. The franchise’s reach has translated into a substantial financial footprint as well, with a cumulative budget reported around 178 million and global grosses surpassing 2.1 billion, a figure that positions The Conjuring as one of the most financially successful horror properties to date. The record reflects not only the appetite for supernatural frights but the deep attachment audiences have developed to the central characters and their moral dimensions, which give the series its emotional ballast (Collider).
Looking ahead, Wan’s previously announced plans for Saw, The Conjuring, and Astral continue to generate anticipation within the industry. Reports suggest he may also be involved in a new horror series for Peacock, signaling a broader interest in developing suspenseful content for streaming platforms. If confirmed, such a project would extend Wan’s influence beyond feature films, tapping into serialized storytelling that allows for more nuanced character explorations and longer arcs. The prospect of Wan steering another high-profile horror property reinforces his reputation for crafting atmospheric dread paired with a strong sense of human stakes. For fans, this hints at fresh textures in tone and pacing, while industry observers watch closely to see how his signature blend adapts to a different format and audience expectations (Collider).