Sophie Nélisse drops major 'Yellowjackets' Season 4 update and reveals why it's the final chapter
Set against themes of survival and dread, Showtime's 'Yellowjackets' is gearing up for its fourth and final season. Created by Ashley Lyle and Bart Nickerson, the psychological drama's Season 3 finale delivers chilling moments across both timelines. In 1996, Natalie (Sophie Thatcher) finally manages to get the satellite phone working, only to be stunned when she hears a male voice saying, "I can hear you." Meanwhile, in the present day, Shauna Shipman (Melanie Lynskey) fully embraces her dark side, burning Melissa's (Hilary Swank) statements about forgiving herself. As fans eagerly wait to see how the survivors' story in the wilderness unfolds, here's a closer look at the Season 4 timeline and why Season 5 will not happen.
An official release date for 'Yellowjackets' Season 4 has yet to be announced, but production on the show's final season is about to begin. Speaking to ScreenRant's Liam Crowley while promoting her new horror film 'Whistle', Sophie Nélisse, who plays teenage Shauna Shipman, confirmed that filming will start in mid-February. As Crowley noted, "Christina had mentioned that production on the final season was slated for January," to which Nélisse clarified, "I know, we're starting in two weeks. We're very excited. I've already rented my place to Vancouver, and so we're about to kick off this final season."
Reportedly, the Vancouver shoot of 'Yellowjackets' indicates a slight shift from earlier production schedules, a change that aligns with the show's wintry setting at the end of Season 4. Produced by Lionsgate TV, 'Yellowjackets' debuted in 2021, with its third season airing from February to April 2025. Confirming the show's conclusion, creators and co-showrunners Lyle and Nickerson said, "After three incredible seasons and great consideration, we're excited to announce that we will be bringing the story of Yellowjackets to its twisted conclusion in this fourth and final season," as per Variety. Explaining their decision to end 'Yellowjackets', the duo emphasised staying true to the story and expressed gratitude to everyone involved.
They said, "We've always known there would come a point when the story would tell us it wants to end, and it's our belief that our job, our responsibility, is to listen." Calling the series "emotional, wild, and deeply human," they described it as "a profoundly meaningful experience and a true honor" and thanked the cast, crew, writers, and fans, adding, "The Hive is nothing without you!" Teasing the finale, they concluded, "We can't wait to share the final chapter with you and hope you find it…delicious." As per reports, discussions are reportedly underway for both Lyle and Nickerson to continue working with Paramount after 'Yellowjackets' concludes.