It’s official; the tiara has been passed. In promoting the upcoming release of “Ready or Not 2: Here I Come,” Sarah Michelle Gellar gave the stamp of approval to Mckenna Grace, who was cast in the new live-action version of the Netflix series, playing the role of Daphne Blake on February 18, 2026. And let’s be real, it’s something fans want to see.
What we know about the series
Gellar, the OG Daphne Blake in the live-action films released in 2002 and 2004, was effusive in her praise and support. She was over the moon, saying, “You are going to be perfect!!” Sounds like a PR statement, doesn’t it? However, Gellar has stated she’s been a fan of the young actress for quite some time now, which makes it less a passing of the torch and more a full-circle experience. And let’s not forget, McKenna isn’t new to the Mystery Machine. She was the voice of Young Daphne in the animated “Scoob!” in 2020 and was spotted trick-or-treating in costume as Daphne in 2024. Sounds like the universe was readying the way for her, doesn’t it? If that isn’t manifestation, what is?
“I’ve been following her because I think she’s so talented and I was so excited for McKenna,” Sarah told us while talking about her upcoming film, ‘Ready or Not 2: Here I Come.’ “I think she’s going to be so great. That girl is booked and busy!”
Titled Scooby-Doo! Origins, the eight-episode series, has been described as “a darker YA take on the beloved characters.” The plot follows “young Shaggy and Daphne during their final summer at camp as they investigate a supernatural murder related to a missing Great Dane puppy.”
The series will be produced by Greg Berlanti and showrun by Josh Appelbaum and Scott Rosenberg. The show will be “a darker and creepier look at how the gang got their start.”
As she cheers on the next Daphne, Gellar is entering her slasher era with the March 20, 2026, release of Ready or Not 2: Here I Come. In the horror film, Gellar will play Ursula Danforth, “a ruthless member of the powerful ‘High Council’ aristocratic family hunting down Samara Weaving’s Grace.”
There’s something deliciously meta about the ultimate ’90s final girl entering the villainous role. From teen icon to torch-passing legend, Gellar isn’t just part of the franchise’s history; she’s making it.
