Disney+ is set to delight fans of horror and nostalgia with the much-anticipated premiere of season 2 of Goosebumps: The Vanishing on January 10. This new iteration of R.L. Stine's classic series takes viewers on a chilling adventure filled with secrets, fears, and family bonds, led by the popular actor David Schwimmer.
After over two decades since its first television adaptation, Goosebumps has returned with darker themes and mature storylines for an audience ready to experience something more intense. Schwimmer takes on the role of Anthony Brewer, a botanist and single father who has returned to his childhood home in Gravesend, Brooklyn, to spend the summer with his teenage twins, Devin and Cece.
The plot kicks off as the family embarks on what seems like a simple summer reunion, only for the twins to discover their dad’s mysterious past tied to the disappearance of his brother, which has haunted their family for decades. The moment not only brings tension but also shows Schwimmer's character wrestling with personal demons as he seeks answers to questions long buried.
According to Schwimmer, “I’ve always been a fan of horror. I love scary movies, I love being scared at the movie theater or at home.” This enthusiasm translates onto the screen as his character faces off against supernatural elements connected to his investigation, tapping both physicality and emotion, aligning with the horror-action-comedy blend of the series.
The family dynamic between Anthony and his children adds another layer to the mystery. Schwimmer revealed, “What's interesting is my character and Devin don’t know the other is undergoing change. We’re both trying to keep it a secret.” The intrigue deepens as the twins, played by Sam McCarthy and Jayden Bartels, also grapple with their unresolved issues — encapsulating the series’ core theme of familial challenges amid chilling encounters.
Recent interviews with the young actors reveal the strong camaraderie they developed on set. Bartels noted, “We ended up playing a lot Minecraft,” demonstrating the bond built during filming. This chemistry replicates the sibling connection portrayed on screen, adding authenticity to their performances. McCarthy humorously adds about their experiences with stunts, "The street was pretty fun!...It feels really fast, like the speed it looks on the show. It looks kind of fast, there on your back – it feels like you're moving at the speed of light.”
The showrunner Hilary Winston emphasized the combination of horror and humor as central to its narrative tone: “So the kids, even if they’re running from monsters, they’re still living their lives.” This approach not only appeals to long-time fans of the franchise but also aims to attract new viewers who may relate to the everyday struggles of the characters, no matter how surreal their circumstances become.
Meanwhile, Schwimmer has praised the blend of filmmaking techniques involved, stating, "When you're shooting it, you have to really use your imagination. Like, when stuff is growing in my arm, nothing's there when we're shooting it. You really have to draw on...your stunt double.” The careful choreography of these scenes coupled with digital enhancements ensures the series maintains its commitment to quality scares.
Described as “genuinely frightening” by Schwimmer, Goosebumps: The Vanishing promises to deliver more than just campfire stories; the tone has shifted to bring real suspense and emotional stakes without compromising the entertainment factor. Each episode is said to feature darkly humorous undertones, balancing typical horror tropes with relatable teenage dilemmas.
Much of the excitement around the new series stems from its return to classic Goosebumps lore, updated for the current generation, as confirmed by Paul Farrell from Bloody Disgusting: “Staying ever true to its roots, Goosebumps: The Vanishing is...an entirely new story of the grander anthology series.” This revitalization of familiar narratives aims to surprise audiences, keeping them engaged and guessing what will happen next.
The franchise engages seasoned viewers familiar with Goosebumps history and newcomers alike, combining classic legends with fresh storylines and characters who grapple with age-old themes of fear, loss, and the supernatural.
“Go watch Goosebumps. You're gonna love it, and you're gonna love us, hopefully!” Bartels encouraged fans, as the cast gears up for the launch of what promises to be another captivating season of fear and fun.
With the creative team including co-creator Rob Letterman and showrunners who are committed to upholding the legacy of Goosebumps, the stage is set for this new season to thrill audiences of all ages as it broadens its reach. Viewers are invited to return to the world of frightful tales, starting January 10 on Disney+ and Hulu.