In a move that’s got post-apocalyptic gearheads shifting into high gear, Peacock has officially renewed the hit action-comedy series Twisted Metal for a third season.
Based on the cult-favorite PlayStation video game franchise, Twisted Metal follows a ragtag crew of survivors in a lawless, Mad Max-meets-Mad Max: Fury Road America, where deadly demolition derbies decide fates. The series, created by Michael Jonathan Smith, burst onto the streaming scene in July 2023 with Anthony Mackie starring as the sharp-tongued courier John Doe, Sweet Tooth (played by Samoa Joe in a chilling milkman mask), and a ensemble cast including Stephanie Beatriz and Richard Speight Jr. Season 1’s blend of high-octane stunts, biting wit, and emotional undercurrents earned it a quick renewal for Season 2 in October 2023, which premiered to even stronger viewership numbers earlier this year.
Peacock’s decision to fast-track Season 3 underscores the show’s growing cult status and its knack for translating the game’s arcade chaos into binge-worthy TV. “We’re thrilled to crank the engine on Twisted Metal for another wild ride,” said a Peacock spokesperson in the official announcement video, which features Sweet Tooth delivering a wink-and-nod tease straight to camera. The renewal comes hot on the heels of Season 2’s streaming success, where episodes cracked the top charts and sparked endless memes across social media.
But here’s the curveball in this demolition derby: the renewal isn’t without its behind-the-scenes shake-up. David Reed, known for his work on Cobra Kai and The Expanse, has been tapped as the new showrunner and executive producer, stepping in after Michael Jonathan Smith’s departure from the day-to-day role. Smith will remain involved as an executive producer, ensuring the core vision stays intact, but Reed’s addition signals a potential evolution in tone—perhaps leaning harder into the martial arts flair or sci-fi depth he’s mastered in past projects. Fans on Reddit are already buzzing, with one thread hailing it as “the chaotic upgrade we didn’t know we needed,” while speculating on how Reed might amp up the game’s lore for deeper character arcs.
The “catch,” as some outlets are calling it, seems more like a strategic pivot than a roadblock. With Season 2 wrapping on cliffhangers that teased larger threats—like expanded alliances among the drivers and hints at Calypso’s shadowy empire—Reed’s fresh eyes could inject new life into the franchise without losing its irreverent edge. Early teases suggest Season 3 will dive deeper into the contestants’ backstories, ramp up the vehicular carnage with even wilder custom rides, and maybe even nod to long-forgotten game Easter eggs.
For a series that started as a risky video game adaptation in an era dominated by superhero spectacles, Twisted Metal‘s trajectory is a reminder that sometimes, the wildest bets pay off in flames and glory. Production is slated to kick off in early 2026, with a premiere eyed for late 2027—plenty of time for fans to polish their Sweet Tooth cosplay.
Mick Lite is a versatile entrepreneur, photographer, and blogger with a huge passion for Music, Sports, Movies, Food, and Gaming. He has worked as an official scorer, social media manager, and photographer for various college, semi pro, and pro sports teams, including the River City Rascals, St. Louis Attack, Missouri Monsters, St. Charles Chill, SLU Billikens, Gateway Steam, St. Louis Riversharks, and Gateway Grizzlies. Served 12 years in the USN/USAF/USN.
