Yellowjackets, Showtime’s critically acclaimed survival drama, has captivated audiences with its dark and mysterious storytelling. After two intense seasons, fans are eager to know what lies ahead in Yellowjackets Season 3. With its unique narrative spanning two timelines—the 1990s Canadian wilderness survival of a high school soccer team and their adult lives decades later—the series has established itself as a must-watch. Here’s a comprehensive look at what to expect in the next chapter of this Emmy-nominated series.
What is Yellowjackets Season 3 about?
Season 3 promises to delve deeper into the haunting events of the 1990s wilderness timeline and their repercussions in the present day. Following the dramatic ending of Season 2, viewers are set to witness the aftermath of the cabin fire, suspected to have been started by Coach Ben. The survivors are left without shelter during the harsh winter, amplifying their struggle for survival.
In the wilderness, Natalie assumes leadership after being anointed by Lottie. As tensions rise and food becomes scarce, the team’s descent into cannibalism and their battle with guilt and loyalty will take centre stage. Show creators Ashley Lyle and Bart Nickerson have hinted that answers to some of the show’s most pressing questions will finally be revealed, including the nature of “The Wilderness” and its mysterious influence on the survivors.
In the present-day timeline, the adult Yellowjackets face new challenges. After Natalie’s tragic death, the group must grapple with its consequences while contending with unresolved tensions and the shadow of their past actions. As Lyle described, the stakes in the current timeline will be higher than ever, creating a fresh layer of suspense and intrigue.
When does filming for Yellowjackets Season 3 start?
The “Yellowjackets” cast in the season 2 finale episode.
Source: Kailey Schwerman/SHOWTIME
Production for Yellowjackets Season 3 officially began in May 2024. In an interview, Sophie Nélisse, who plays teenage Shauna, confirmed that the cast would return to Vancouver for filming. On May 14, 2024, the official Yellowjackets Instagram account announced the start of production with a post featuring behind-the-scenes photos. Christina Ricci, portraying adult Misty, also shared glimpses of her time on set, further exciting fans.
However, the production timeline was impacted by the 2023 Writers Guild of America strike, which delayed initial script development. Co-creator Ashley Lyle revealed that the strike began just as the writers’ room had opened, pushing back the season’s premiere date.
Who is in the Yellowjackets Season 3 cast?
The “Yellowjackets” cast in a season 2 promo photo.
Source: Lorenzo Agius/SHOWTIME
Yellowjackets boasts a star-studded cast that brilliantly portrays the dual timelines. Most of the main cast is expected to return for Season 3, with Melanie Lynskey as Shauna, Christina Ricci as Misty, and Tawny Cypress as Taissa, reprising their roles in the present-day timeline. Juliette Lewis, who played Natalie, will not return due to her character’s death. However, Sophie Thatcher will continue as Young Natalie, carrying forward her character’s emotional and intense arc in the wilderness timeline.
Returning cast members include Samantha Hanratty as Young Misty, Sophie Nélisse as Young Shauna, Jasmin Savoy Brown as Young Taissa, Courtney Eaton as Young Lottie, and Liv Hewson as Young Van. Supporting characters like Steven Krueger’s Coach Ben and Kevin Alves’ Travis are also set to return, contributing to the unfolding drama.
Season 3 will introduce new faces, including Joel McHale in a guest-starring role and Hilary Swank as a recurring guest star. Both actors’ roles remain mysterious, adding to the anticipation for the upcoming season.
When will Yellowjackets Season 3 be released?
Sophie Thatcher previews what’s coming in season three of “Yellowjackets.”
Source: Kailey Schwerman/SHOWTIME
Production for Yellowjackets Season 3 faced delays due to the 2023 Writers Guild of America strike. The writers’ room reopened in September 2023, and filming began in May 2024. Despite these setbacks, the show is set to return in early 2025. Fans were treated to a glimmer of hope with the announcement of a bonus episode that will air before the official season premiere, providing a bridge between seasons.
What happened in Yellowjackets season 2?
Natalie Sophie Thatcher pointed a rifle with people looking on in Yellowjackets season 1 episode 4.
Source: SHOWTIME
Season 2 concluded with a series of dramatic cliffhangers across both timelines. In the 1990s, the group’s cabin burned down, leaving them without shelter in the harsh winter wilderness. While the cause of the fire remains unconfirmed, Coach Ben’s disappearance and his possession of matches suggest he may have started it. Meanwhile, Natalie narrowly escaped being sacrificed in a ritual but was declared the group’s new leader by Lottie, intensifying tensions within the team.
In the present day, the core adult survivors reunited at Lottie’s wellness retreat, where they attempted to exorcise their past by reenacting their survival rituals. Tragedy struck when Misty accidentally killed Natalie while trying to save her, leading to a significant emotional fallout among the group.
Are there any major themes for season 3?
The “Yellowjackets” cast in season 2.
Source: SHOWTIME
Ashley Lyle and Bart Nickerson have described Season 3 as a return to the vibe of Season 1 while exploring darker and more emotional storylines. The merging of past and present will play a significant role, highlighting how the characters’ traumatic experiences shaped their adult lives. Themes of leadership, survival, guilt, and loyalty will be central to the narrative as the survivors navigate their complex relationships and the lingering influence of “The Wilderness.”
Will there be more seasons of Yellowjackets?
Natalie and Lottie are arguing in Yellowjackets.
Source: SHOWTIME
While Showtime has confirmed Yellowjackets for a third season, its creators, Ashley Lyle and Bart Nickerson, envision it as a five-season story. They have emphasized their commitment to delivering a satisfying conclusion without extending the series unnecessarily. Lyle stated that the team remains on track with their original vision, ensuring that each season builds meaningfully toward the ultimate resolution.
FAQs
When does Yellowjackets Season 3 premiere? Yellowjackets Season 3 is scheduled to premiere in early 2025, following delays caused by the 2023 Writers Guild of America strike.
Which cast members are returning for Season 3? Most of the main cast is returning, including Melanie Lynskey, Christina Ricci, and Tawny Cypress. Sophie Thatcher will continue as Young Natalie, while new additions include Joel McHale and Hilary Swank.
What will happen in the wilderness timeline? The survivors will face the harsh reality of winter without shelter, leading to further challenges in their quest for survival. Natalie assumes leadership, and the group’s dynamics are tested amid mounting tensions.
Will there be a Season 4 of Yellowjackets? Although Showtime has only officially renewed the series through Season 3, the creators have a five-season plan and are optimistic about continuing the story.
What questions will Season 3 answer? Season 3 will address long-standing mysteries, including the true nature of “The Wilderness” and its impact on the survivors. Two major questions teased throughout the series will receive definitive answers.
What happened in the Yellowjackets Season 2 finale? The Season 2 finale featured the destruction of the survivors’ cabin, Natalie’s rise as the group leader, and Misty’s accidental killing of Natalie in the present-day timeline.
Will there be a bonus episode before Yellowjackets Season 3? Yes, a bonus episode is planned to bridge the gap between Seasons 2 and 3. The release date has yet to be announced.
How many seasons will Yellowjackets have? The creators plan the series for five seasons, ensuring a concise and impactful narrative.