Marlon Wayans is ahead of the curve time and time again. From his over the top comedic films to now putting his stamp on another horror inspired project. This time he is adapting the hit South Korean game show Midnight Horror Story for American audiences.
Smart man. As reported by Deadline “With the success of Scary Movie and the A Haunted House franchise, Rick [Alvarez] and I have always had an affinity for the mash up of horror and comedy. This project fits perfectly in our wheelhouse,” Wayans said in a statement.
Get this, Wayans and Alvarez are producing through their Ugly Baby Productions, teaming up with Craig and Clara Plestis’ Smart Dog Media, the same company that helped launch The Masked Singer in the United States.
According to the series logline, the American version will spotlight well known actors who each episode will tell terrifying yet comedic stories that will then be brought to life through cinematic reenactments. “The goal is for each celebrity to use their acting prowess to tell the scariest story. The show’s hidden mystic audience of spirits (a mix of live in studio and virtual audience members) will illuminate a candle whenever they find a story truly frightening. The celebrity who earns the most candles will be crowned the winner. The new series will amplify the comedy elements as a key factor of the format.”
Deadline also reports that the set design will immerse performers in the sights and sounds of each tale to heighten the fear factor.
The original Midnight Horror Story is now in its fifth season in South Korea and continues to thrive, particularly among younger audiences who prefer watching on platforms like YouTube rather than traditional TV.
In addition to the new series, Ugly Baby Productions is also behind the sixth Scary Movie, which is scheduled to hit theaters on June 12, 2026. Wayans confirmed that he will be joined in the lead cast by his brother Shawn, Regina Hall, and Anna Faris, bringing back the franchise’s fan favorite faces.