Ridley Scott’s ‘Dog Stars’ Sci-Fi Epic Pushed to Summer 2026
Ridley Scott’s adaptation of ‘The Dog Stars’ starring Jacob Elordi has been rescheduled for late summer 2026, while ‘Ready or Not 2: Here I Come’ will now arrive in cinemas in March.
20th Century Studios, in partnership with Disney, has shifted the release date for Ridley Scott’s upcoming science fiction feature, The Dog Stars. The much-anticipated project, which follows on from Scott’s work on Gladiator II, is based on Peter Heller’s 2012 novel of the same name. The narrative unfolds in a post-pandemic world, where civilisation has been left in ruins and the remnants of humanity are few and far between.
Jacob Elordi is set to take the lead in this adaptation, which centres on a man who survives the collapse of society with only his dog and a solitary companion for company. Their isolated existence is disrupted when they intercept a mysterious broadcast, suggesting that they may not be as alone as they once believed. The transmission hints at the presence of outsiders, raising questions about who—or what—might be approaching.
Production Delays and New Timelines
The film’s release has now been postponed to late summer 2026, a move that comes as part of a broader reshuffle in the studios’ schedule. This adjustment means that audiences will have to wait a bit longer to see Scott’s vision brought to the screen. In the meantime, another title, Ready or Not 2: Here I Come, has been brought forward and is now slated for a March debut that same year.
While the delay may disappoint some, the anticipation surrounding The Dog Stars remains high. The combination of Scott’s direction and Elordi’s rising star power has generated considerable interest, with many eager to see how the story’s bleak yet hopeful themes will be translated to film.
Adapting a Post-Apocalyptic Tale
Heller’s original novel is known for its stark depiction of survival and the enduring bond between man and animal. The adaptation promises to retain these elements, focusing on the emotional and psychological challenges faced by its characters as they navigate a world stripped of order and certainty.
With its new release window, The Dog Stars is poised to become one of the most talked-about science fiction films of 2026. The delay, while unfortunate, may well allow the creative team the time needed to fully realise the story’s potential on the big screen.