Back in May, we reported that horror maestro Eli Roth had found his next film, The Ice Cream Man. He has now unveiled the first look image via Variety. Roth also shared the star-studded cast for his movie, which he describes as his “most terrifying and insane film to date.” The project, which recently wrapped, is set for a wide theatrical release in 2026.
Roth is known for the Hostel and Cabin Fever franchises, as well as Thanksgiving, now available on Netflix. He wrote and produced the Ice Cream Man alongside longtime collaborator Noah Belson.
Ice Cream Man centers on an idyllic summer town that takes a dark turn. The town descends into madness after the local ice cream man begins serving children sweet treats that yield horrifying results. The film promises to deliver the high-stakes, visceral horror that fans have come to expect from Roth.
Leading the ensemble is Ari Millen (“Orphan Black“) as the unsettling titular character. A mix of established actors and rising stars joins him: Benjamin Byron Davis, Karen Cliche, Dylan Hawco, Sarah Abbott, and more. Roth himself will round out the cast in an undisclosed role. Furthermore, music icon Snoop Dogg, with whom Roth is collaborating on the upcoming horror film Don’t Go in That House, Bitch!, will contribute to the film’s soundtrack.
For Eli Roth, the film is a passion project. The director expressed his excitement about bringing the horrific vision to the screen:
“I couldn’t be more excited about the incredible cast we’ve assembled for Ice Cream Man,” said Roth. “It’s surreal to see the idea I’ve had for over twenty years come to life — and with this insanely talented cast, we get to deliver a film to horror fans that’s as terrifying as I’ve always imagined.”
Principal photography for Ice Cream Man concluded in September, paving the way for post-production on the 2026 release. Christopher Woodrow, Raj Singh, Kate Harrison, and Roth produce. Executive producers include Kevin Frakes, Connor DiGregorio, Eli Massillon, and Lorenzo Antonucci of MCT, as well as Jon Schnaars and Holly Adams of The Horror Section. Ice Cream Man marks Roth’s first film under The Horror Section banner.
The film’s creative team includes Emmy-winning composer Brandon Roberts, who will create the film’s tense musical backdrop. The visuals will be handled by Steve Newburn (Thanksgiving) and the Oscar-winning effects artist Adrien Morot (Thanksgiving, The Whale).
With a dark premise, a solid ensemble, and a promise from Roth to deliver his “most terrifying” movie yet, Ice Cream Man is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated horror releases of 2026.
