Hollywood Star Matthew Lillard Ventures into Spirits Industry, While 'Five Nights at Freddy's' Star Hints at Franchise Future

Actor Matthew Lillard and Josh Hutcherson are expanding their careers beyond horror movies. Lillard is launching a new tequila brand inspired by scary stories, while Hutcherson remains open to further installments of the “Five Nights at Freddy’s” franchise.

Lillard, known for roles in “Scream” and the “Five Nights at Freddy’s” film adaptation, is starting a tequila company called Macabre Spirits. It will be part of his business Find Familiar Spirits, which also includes a Dungeons and Dragons whiskey. Macabre’s first product will be a limited-edition reposado tequila debuting in early 2025. The tequila will be made at a popular Jalisco, Mexico distillery that produces other well-known brands.

In an unusual promotion, Lillard hired acclaimed horror director Mike Flanagan to write a detailed 70-page story for the tequila launch. Flanagan, creator of hit shows like “The Haunting of Hill House,” gladly accepted this first chance to write a novella. Lillard quotes Flanagan as being excited for the project and writing a much longer story than planned.

The first 5,000 bottles of Macabre Spirits tequila will be individually numbered for collectors. Preorders start on October 24th, and Lillard hopes to collaborate with other authors in the future.

While building his business, Lillard’s “Five Nights at Freddy’s” co-star Hutcherson says he remains open to continuing his role in the series. In a recent interview, Hutcherson told Esquire that working on the films is enjoyable and his character Mike Schmidt has potential for many stories. Though a sequel is confirmed, Hutcherson said any plans beyond that will depend on the second movie’s success.

Early reports hinted the “Five Nights at Freddy’s” franchise could span multiple films thanks to Lillard signing a three-movie deal. However, official word on further installments is still pending. As these actors develop new avenues in their careers, fans of the horror property and spirits alike have more to anticipate.