Photo Credits:

Kristen Bell: Myles Kalus Anak Jihem, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

David Harbour: Gage Skidmore, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

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Kristen Bell Joins David Harbour in Violent Night 2, Filming Now in Winnipeg

Winnipeg is buzzing with movie news this fall. The holiday action sequel Violent Night 2 is filming in the city from September 2 through October 17, 2025, with David Harbour returning as the hammer-swinging Santa. The big surprise is that Kristen Bell has joined the cast alongside Daniela Melchior, adding even more excitement to the project. Bell’s humor from The Good Place and Melchior’s standout role in The Suicide Squad promise to give this sequel a fresh spark.

The film, directed again by Tommy Wirkola, will push Santa into new territory as he’s mysteriously labeled “naughty” and winds up stranded in a rundown New Jersey mall. Fans can expect the same mix of wild action, twisted holiday magic, and dark comedy that made the first movie such a hit. With Harbour leading the way and new stars stepping in, this installment looks set to outdo the original.

Winnipeg is also playing a starring role as the backdrop. The city’s winter charm has made it a favorite for film productions, and locals might even catch some scenes being shot downtown. Even better, there’s a chance to get involved. Background casting is being handled by Kari Casting, and anyone hoping for a spot as an extra can follow their Facebook page for updates and opportunities. It’s a rare chance for the community to step right into the middle of the movie magic.

Kari Casting Facebook Page

Filming wraps in October, and the movie is already scheduled to hit theaters on December 4, 2026. Until then, fans can speculate about where the story will go next, what new characters might pop up, and maybe even who could play Mrs. Claus. For now, Winnipeg can enjoy its moment in the spotlight as Hollywood brings a little extra holiday chaos to the city streets.

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