Freddie Prinze Jr. reprised his role as Ray in the new sequel to I Know What You Did Last Summer, almost three decades after the original film’s release. Prinze Jr. spoke with Tommy DiDario at the Los Angeles premiere about his decision to return and the impact of the new story on longtime fans.
The Role of Jennifer Kaytin Robinson in Prinze Jr.’s Comeback
Initially hesitant, Freddie Prinze Jr. was convinced to join the sequel after learning that Jennifer Kaytin Robinson, known for directing Do Revenge, was behind the project as co-writer and director. He recalled a meeting with Robinson in a modest diner where she pitched the characters’ new direction. Prinze Jr. explained how this inspired confidence to commit to the film before the script was finished.
“My friend ended up writing and directing the movie. I was friends with Jen Robinson and I had already seen ‘Do Revenge’ and I thought she did such a great job with that movie and she said, ‘Let me pitch you where these characters are and if you like it, I’ll pitch you the movie.’ So we went to this little crummy diner and we didn’t eat any of the food and she just pitched me the idea and I loved it… I signed on basically with her in confidence before the script was even written, just based off the idea.”
—Freddie Prinze Jr.
Sarah Michelle Gellar’s Reaction to the Sequel and Filming Locations
Prinze Jr. shared that Sarah Michelle Gellar, who played a character that dies in the original film, may have experienced some mild FOMO but remained supportive and professional. Freddie’s family also visited the set in Australia, where much of the sequel was filmed, with additional scenes shot in Los Angeles.
“That’s where we shot most of the movie.”
—Freddie Prinze Jr.
“I don’t know if there was any fear of missing out. She’s a pro. She knows what’s up.”
—Freddie Prinze Jr.
On-Screen Chemistry Revisited: Freddie Prinze Jr. and Jennifer Love Hewitt
Discussing his scenes with Jennifer Love Hewitt, Prinze Jr. expressed pride in their performances, noting their growth as actors since the original film. He believes their new scenes are the strongest they have shared in the franchise, bringing vulnerability and honesty to their roles.
“I’m a very different actor than I was back then; so is she. I felt like we both came to this with nothing but a lot of vulnerability and as much honesty as we know how to put into a performance and I was really proud of the scenes we had together.”
—Freddie Prinze Jr.
Release Information and What Lies Ahead
The new I Know What You Did Last Summer sequel is set to debut on July 18, marking a significant return for Freddie Prinze Jr. and the franchise. Fans can expect a fresh take on beloved characters, supported by creative direction and strong performances.
