‘Sharknado’ Returns: Seventh Film “Sharknado Origins” Set for 2026 Release
The Franchise Returns
The hit B-movie franchise Sharknado, which wrapped in 2018 after six wildly absurd installments, is making a comeback. The Asylum announced development of “Sharknado Origins”. Director Anthony Ferrante will return, and production is set to begin later this year. A summer 2026 release is planned.
The Premise
The film takes place before the original 2013 Sharknado. It introduces audiences to a teenage Fin (originally played by Ian Ziering) and April (Tara Reid). The two meet during a perfect summer at the beach. Just as Fin is about to give April a promise ring, a massive funnel cloud forms, and sharks erupt from the ocean. The first Sharknado is born. As the teaser description says: “Nothing says young love like airborne predators.”
From Cult Hit to Cultural Phenomenon
The original Sharknado began as a throwaway line in a pitch session at the American Film Market. It became a surprise hit when it debuted on Syfy on July 11, 2013. Fans loved the ridiculous premise and social media frenzy surrounding it. The film, made for only $1 million, spawned five sequels, three spinoffs, and a slew of celebrity cameos, including Olivia Newton-John, Billy Ray Cyrus, Jerry Springer, and David Hasselhoff.
Sequels and Legacy
Following the first film, the franchise released:
- Sharknado 2: The Second One – 3.9 million viewers
- Sharknado 3: Oh Hell No!
- Sharknado: The 4th Awakens
- Sharknado 5: Global Swarming
- The Last Sharknado (2018)
About The Asylum
Alongside Sharknado, The Asylum produces low-budget “mockbuster” films timed to major studio releases. This approach inspired a new documentary, Mockbuster, which explores the studio’s unconventional filmmaking style. The documentary recently won the Audience Award at the Adelaide Film Festival. Giant Pictures will release it in the U.S. next year.