The Conjuring Universe Expands to Television: Inside the Upcoming Max Series

The Conjuring franchise has long been a cornerstone of modern horror, blending real-life paranormal investigations with spine-chilling supernatural terror. Since its cinematic debut in 2013, the universe—centered on the demonologists Ed and Lorraine Warren—has spawned nine films, grossing nearly $2.5 billion worldwide and captivating audiences with tales of demonic possessions, haunted artifacts, and malevolent spirits. With The Conjuring: Last Rites marking the potential close of the main film's "Phase One" in 2025, fans might wonder if the scares are over. Far from it: Warner Bros. Discovery is bringing the Conjuring world to the small screen with a drama series in active development for Max (formerly HBO Max). This untitled project promises to extend the Warrens' legacy, offering deeper dives into their eerie case files and the franchise's interconnected lore.

From Screen to Stream: The Road to Television

The idea of adapting The Conjuring for TV isn't new. As early as May 2021, producer Peter Safran hinted at television explorations within the universe, building on the success of films like The Conjuring (directed by James Wan) and its spin-offs, including the Annabelle and The Nun series. However, the project gained official momentum in April 2023 during Warner Bros. Discovery's launch event for the rebranded Max streaming service. There, it was announced that Warner Bros. Television would produce a series "continuing the story established in the feature films," with Safran and Wan attached as executive producers via their banners, The Safran Company and Atomic Monster Productions.

Development progressed steadily but quietly. By mid-2024, HBO and Max content chief Casey Bloys reaffirmed the series' status during an interview, noting it as one of several high-profile adaptations alongside projects like a Green Lantern series. The real breakthrough came in September 2025, when Deadline and Variety reported that the show had hired its creative team, signaling a shift toward pre-production. This timing aligns with the blockbuster success of Last Rites, which earned over $187 million in its opening weekend on a modest $55 million budget, proving the franchise's enduring profitability. As one critic noted on X, the Conjuring films have consistently tripled their budgets, making it "the most reliable money-making series of the last 15 years."

Creative Team: A Blend of Horror Expertise and Prestige TV Pedigree

At the helm is showrunner Nancy Won, a seasoned writer whose credits span supernatural chills and emotional depth. Won, known for penning episodes of Supernatural and Jessica Jones, brings a knack for blending procedural mystery with character-driven drama—perfect for unpacking the Warrens' dual lives as investigators and family members. Her recent work includes the Hulu limited series Tiny Beautiful Things and Apple's Sunny, showcasing her ability to infuse genre stories with humanity. Won will also write and executive produce, ensuring a cohesive vision.

Joining her as writers are Peter Cameron and Cameron Squires, both Marvel veterans with a flair for atmospheric horror. Cameron contributed to Disney+'s Werewolf by Night, Moon Knight, and WandaVision, while Squires has credits on Agatha All Along, The Acolyte, and Gen V. Their involvement suggests the series could incorporate anthology-style episodes or interconnected arcs, much like the films' case-of-the-week structure laced with overarching threats.

Behind the scenes, Safran and Wan remain pivotal. Safran, co-CEO of DC Studios, has shepherded the entire Conjuring saga, while Wan—whose directorial touch defined the first two films—lends his Atomic Monster's signature blend of practical effects and psychological dread. Warner Bros. Television oversees production, with the series exclusive to Max.

What to Expect: Plot, Casting, and Format

Details remain shrouded in secrecy, but the series is poised to "continue the story established in the feature films," likely picking up after Last Rites or weaving in unexplored Warren cases from the 1950s through the 1980s. Expect investigations into hauntings, possessions, and cursed objects, potentially expanding on entities like the Annabelle doll or the demonic Valak from The Nun. The format could mirror prestige horror like The Haunting of Hill House, with serialized storytelling allowing for richer character exploration—perhaps delving into Lorraine's clairvoyance or Ed's faith amid personal tolls.

Casting announcements are pending, fueling speculation. Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga's portrayals of the Warrens have been franchise-defining, but with Last Rites as a possible cinematic send-off, the series might recast for a prequel vibe or introduce their adult children (as seen in Annabelle Comes Home). No premiere date has been set, though industry buzz points to 2027 at the earliest, post-script development and filming.

Why Now? The Conjuring's Timeless Terror Meets Streaming Ambition

The Conjuring's appeal lies in its roots: the real Warrens' archives provide endless fodder for horror grounded in "true events," from the Perron family haunting to the Enfield poltergeist. On TV, this translates to bingeable episodes that build dread over seasons, capitalizing on Max's push for IP-driven content amid a crowded streamer landscape. As the franchise nears its teens in age, the series represents evolution—trading blockbuster spectacle for intimate, episodic frights.

For fans haunted by clanging doors and shadowy figures, this adaptation signals more nights of unease ahead. Whether it summons new demons or resurrects old ones, The Conjuring TV series is set to exorcise any doubts about the universe's vitality. Keep an eye on Max for updates; the spirits aren't done whispering yet.