The Predator franchise is getting a fresh infusion of blood—and it’s animated. Hulu has officially announced Predator: Killer of Killers, an ambitious new animated anthology film set to premiere on June 6, 2025. Created in secret by Prey director Dan Trachtenberg, this project is shaping up to be one of the boldest entries in the franchise’s nearly four-decade history.
A New Format, Same Ruthless Hunter
Unlike previous live-action installments, Killer of Killers takes the Predator mythos into uncharted territory: animation. But this isn’t a cartoon for kids. The film blends brutal action and dark atmosphere with stylized visuals that bring the universe’s most notorious extraterrestrial hunter to life in a new, visceral way. The anthology format means we’re getting not one, but multiple stories centered around the concept of the Predator facing off against Earth’s fiercest warriors.
Confirmed segments include:
- A Viking berserker raider during the Dark Ages
- A feudal Japanese ninja assassin
- A WWII fighter pilot caught in a remote jungle battlefield
Each storyline focuses on a lone elite warrior unknowingly being hunted by the ultimate predator. This “killer of killers” motif turns the concept of alpha hunters on its head—pitting history’s most dangerous humans against an apex extraterrestrial.
Directed by Dan Trachtenberg – The Vision Behind Prey
Trachtenberg, who revitalized the franchise with 2022’s Prey, secretly spearheaded this project in parallel with the development of Predator: Badlands—a live-action sequel also slated for the near future. His return signals a continued push to expand the Predator franchise through unique, creator-driven entries, rather than just repeating the same formula. Prey proved that a fresh setting, a strong protagonist, and clever storytelling could win over both critics and fans—Killer of Killers looks to build on that legacy.
A Streaming-First Strategy
Hulu’s investment in Predator marks a major shift for the franchise. With Prey breaking streaming records and drawing critical praise for its stripped-down, survivalist tone, it’s clear that streaming has become the ideal playground for riskier, experimental Predator content. Animation allows for flexibility in storytelling, genre mixing, and world-building in ways live-action often can’t afford.
In fact, the anthology format could be a testing ground for future live-action spin-offs. If certain stories resonate with audiences, don’t be surprised if Hulu or 20th Century Studios greenlights expanded projects based on these short tales.
What This Means for the Franchise
With both Predator: Killer of Killers and Predator: Badlands arriving in the same year, 2025 is shaping up to be a major turning point for the franchise. For decades, Predator films largely followed a familiar formula: a group of humans gets hunted in a jungle or city by a technologically advanced alien. These new stories break that mold—diving into different time periods, characters, and visual styles while staying true to the primal essence of the Predator mythos.
Fans of the franchise should mark their calendars. Whether you’re here for the gore, the strategy, or just the thrill of the hunt, Predator: Killer of Killers promises to be a fresh and brutal take on the iconic alien hunter—offering something new, stylish, and dangerous.
Hulu drops the film June 6. Let the hunt begin.
Key Takeaways
- “Predator: Killer of Killers” will premiere exclusively on Hulu on June 6, 2025, as an animated anthology film.
- The project was developed in secret by “Prey” director Dan Trachtenberg and was first teased by 20th Century Studios in October 2024.
- This release strategically positions the animated film to arrive before the upcoming live-action “Predator: Badlands” movie.
Announcement and Release Details
The animated film “Predator: Killer of Killers” emerged from secrecy with significant fanfare after being teased by 20th Century Studios executives in late 2024. The project represents a bold new direction for the franchise with its anthology format.
Teaser Campaign and Buildup
20th Century Studios Executive Steve Asbell first hinted at the project during an interview with the Hollywood Reporter in October 2024. The executive deliberately created mystery by referring to it only as a “secret Predator movie” without providing details.
The film was what many industry insiders call a “poorly-kept secret” in Hollywood circles. Despite attempts to maintain surprise, rumors circulated throughout the industry about the animated anthology format.
At CinemaCon, attendees received the first official glimpse of the project. The presentation showcased the unique animation style and anthology structure that would feature Predators hunting humans across different time periods.
Release Date and Platform
“Predator: Killer of Killers” will premiere on June 6, 2025, exclusively on streaming platforms. The film will be available to subscribers on both Hulu and Disney+.
This digital-only release strategy follows recent trends for mid-budget franchise extensions. By avoiding theatrical distribution costs, the studio can take more creative risks with the beloved property.
The June release date positions the film as early summer streaming content. This timing aligns with Hulu’s strategy of releasing high-profile content during peak viewing seasons when audience engagement traditionally increases.
Cast and Characters
The animated film “Predator: Killer of Killers” features a talented voice cast led by Hollywood star Elle Fanning. While full cast details remain limited, the information available reveals an interesting mix of characters for this new entry in the Predator franchise.
Elle Fanning as The Protagonist ‘Ava’
Elle Fanning leads the cast as Ava, a skilled hunter who becomes entangled in the deadly world of the Predator. Known for her versatile acting abilities, Fanning brings depth to this animated character through her voice performance.
Ava is described as a resourceful survivor with exceptional tracking skills that make her a worthy opponent for the alien hunter. Her character represents a continuation of the franchise’s tradition of strong protagonists facing overwhelming odds.
The role marks Fanning’s first venture into the science fiction action genre in animated form, adding another diverse character to her already impressive filmography.
Supporting Cast Insights
While 20th Century Studios has kept much of the supporting cast under wraps, industry insiders suggest the film will feature several veteran voice actors alongside Fanning. The animated format allows the creators to expand the Predator universe with unique characters that might be difficult to realize in live action.
The voice cast reportedly includes actors with experience in both animation and the action genre, ensuring authentic performances. Character details remain scarce, but promotional materials hint at both human allies for Ava and multiple Predator variants.
The anthology format suggests multiple storylines, potentially featuring different voice actors for each segment of the film.
Plot and Setting
The upcoming Predator: Killer of Killers takes an anthology approach, exploring fierce warriors from different periods of human history who face off against the lethal alien hunters. The film will showcase distinctive settings and emotional storylines that expand the franchise’s universe.
The Predator’s New Hunting Grounds
Predator: Killer of Killers marks a departure from traditional settings by introducing multiple historical battlegrounds. The animated anthology film will feature separate stories showing Predators hunting across different time periods and cultures.
Reports suggest the film may include segments featuring pirates and other historical warriors. This format allows the franchise to explore how the Predator species has been hunting humanity’s greatest fighters throughout our entire history.
Each setting promises unique landscapes and combat scenarios designed to highlight the Predator’s adaptive hunting techniques. The anthology format provides viewers with diverse visual environments while maintaining the core tension of humans facing superior alien technology.
The Samurai Connection
One of the most anticipated storylines involves samurai warriors facing the extraterrestrial hunters in feudal Japan. This pairing creates a fascinating clash between the strict honor code of the samurai and the Predator’s own ritualistic hunting practices.
The segment reportedly showcases traditional Japanese landscapes, from misty bamboo forests to ancient temples. These settings create atmospheric backdrops for the inevitable confrontations.
Directors have worked with historical consultants to ensure authentic representation of samurai combat techniques and weaponry. This attention to detail elevates the storytelling beyond simple action sequences.
The samurai segment examines themes of honor, duty, and what it means to be a warrior when faced with an enemy possessing vastly superior technology and strength.
A Story of Revenge and Motherhood
Perhaps the most emotionally resonant storyline follows a mother seeking vengeance after her family becomes prey for a Predator. This narrative explores the raw determination of maternal protection against the galaxy’s most efficient hunters.
The mother character reportedly undergoes a transformation from victim to hunter herself. Her journey highlights how human emotional drive can sometimes overcome seemingly insurmountable physical disadvantages.
Set in a more contemporary period, this segment creates immediate audience connection through its relatable protagonist and modern setting. The emotional stakes are heightened by focusing on family bonds.
This storyline serves as a counterpoint to the more action-focused segments by emphasizing psychological elements. The themes of revenge and maternal protection create a deeply personal motivation that contrasts with the Predator’s trophy-hunting ethos.
Production and Reception
The production of Predator: Killer of Killers has been shrouded in secrecy since 20th Century Studios first teased the project in October 2024. This “secret” Predator film quickly generated buzz in Hollywood circles.
Behind the Scenes
The production team behind Predator: Killer of Killers maintained tight security around the project, similar to how the secret Predator movie was announced by 20th Century Studios executive Steve Asbell in his Hollywood Reporter interview. Filming reportedly took place in remote locations to prevent leaks.
The casting process brought together a mix of franchise veterans and newcomers. Several actors from popular shows like Better Things were rumored to have auditioned, though Pamela Adlon’s potential involvement remains unconfirmed.
The production design team worked to create a distinctive visual style that honors the original films while bringing fresh elements to the franchise. Special effects work combined practical creature effects with modern CGI.
Fan Expectations and Cinema Landscape
The announcement of a June 6 release date has energized the Predator fanbase, particularly after the previous film in the franchise received mixed reactions. Social media has been buzzing with theories about how this film connects to the broader Predator universe.
Many fans have drawn parallels to how the Arrowverse handled its Crisis on Infinite Earths storyline, suggesting this film might similarly reset or expand the Predator mythology. The character Barry has been trending in fan discussions as a potential connection point.
The summer release date positions the film strategically in the competitive streaming landscape, with Hulu clearly banking on the Predator brand recognition to drive subscriptions during a crowded entertainment season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Fans have been buzzing with questions since 20th Century Studios revealed their “secret” Predator project. Here are answers to the most common questions about this upcoming animated anthology.
When will ‘Predator: Killer of Killers’ be available on Hulu?
‘Predator: Killer of Killers’ will premiere exclusively on Hulu on June 6th, 2025. This animated anthology was developed in secret while other Predator projects were publicly announced.
The summer release date positions the film as part of Hulu’s major content lineup for 2025. Viewers will be able to stream it before the release of the upcoming “Predator: Badlands” project.
Who is in the cast of the upcoming ‘Predator: Killer of Killers’ movie?
The complete cast list for ‘Predator: Killer of Killers’ has not yet been officially announced. 20th Century Studios has kept many details about the voice actors under wraps.
Industry insiders expect the studio to reveal the voice talent roster in the coming weeks as part of their marketing campaign. The anthology format suggests multiple casts across different stories within the film.
What plot details have been released for ‘Predator: Killer of Killers’?
Very few plot details have been confirmed for ‘Predator: Killer of Killers’ at this time. The title suggests a focus on the Predator species hunting particularly dangerous or skilled human prey.
As an anthology, the film will likely feature multiple separate stories rather than a single narrative. Each segment may showcase different hunting grounds, time periods, or unique human encounters with the alien hunters.
How does ‘Predator: Killer of Killers’ relate to the previous films in the Predator franchise?
‘Predator: Killer of Killers’ appears to be an expansion of the franchise rather than a direct sequel to any specific previous film. The animated format represents a new direction for the series.
The announcement came from 20th Century Studios Exec Steve Asbell during an interview with the Hollywood Reporter in October 2024. He mentioned this project as separate from the upcoming “Predator: Badlands” film.
Are there any special subscription requirements to watch ‘Predator: Killer of Killers’ on Hulu?
Standard Hulu subscription holders will likely have access to ‘Predator: Killer of Killers’ without additional fees. The film is being marketed as a Hulu exclusive rather than a premium or add-on offering.
International viewers may have different access options depending on their region, as Hulu content distribution varies globally. More specific access details should be announced closer to the release date.
Has the director or production team of ‘Predator: Killer of Killers’ released any teasers or trailers?
A first trailer for ‘Predator: Killer of Killers’ has been released showcasing the animated hunt coming to Hulu. The trailer provides the first public glimpse of the animation style and tone of the anthology.
The production team kept the project highly confidential until recently. Marketing materials are expected to increase as the June 6th release date approaches.
