Terrifier 3 Breaks Records: $8.2M Opening Day Sparks Franchise’s Biggest Success

The highly anticipated Terrifier 3 slashed its way to an incredible $8.2 million opening day in the U.S., nearly surpassing the total earnings of Terrifier 2 within just 24 hours. Released in 2,514 theaters, the unrated slasher raked in $2.5 million from Thursday previews alone, setting the stage for a projected $16 million opening weekend.

(Terrifier 3)

This is a massive achievement for the franchise, as Terrifier 2 only grossed $10.6 million throughout its entire theatrical run. With a modest production and marketing budget of $2.5 million, Terrifier 3 is already profitable just days after its release. Thanks to word-of-mouth buzz from dedicated horror fans, it has become a must-see for slasher enthusiasts eager to test their tolerance for intense gore.

Set during the Christmas season, Terrifier 3 brings back Art the Clown, played by David Howard Thornton, who once again terrorizes Sienna Shaw (Lauren Lavera) as she tries to rebuild her life. This time, Art is joined by a possessed Victoria Heyes, played by Samantha Scaffidi, adding a supernatural twist to the already bloody saga. The film, written and directed by Damien Leone, continues the storyline from Terrifier 2 and expands on the franchise’s gruesome lore.

After wrapping filming earlier in 2024, Terrifier 3 premiered at Fantastic Fest in Austin, Texas, where it received positive early reviews. Critics have praised its over-the-top violence, dark humor, and relentless intensity, making it a standout in the crowded horror genre.

Given its outstanding performance, Terrifier 3 is set to surpass expectations, even with competition from other major horror films like Smile 2. Whether or not the second-weekend numbers drop, the film has already cemented its place in horror history.