US Trending News: Who Dies in ‘I Know What You Did Last Summer’? Full Cast and Plot Breakdown

The 2025 horror sequel I Know What You Did Last Summer has become one of the most talked-about films in the US, with fans and critics alike buzzing about its twists, cast, and return of original stars. For those who have seen the film or are planning to, one of the biggest questions is: Who dies in I Know What You Did Last Summer? This article will break down the film’s plot, the key characters, and the shocking deaths that occur throughout the story.

Who Is the Killer?

The central mystery of I Know What You Did Last Summer revolves around a killer known as “the Fisherman.” In the new film, this identity is revealed to be Stevie, played by Sarah Pidgeon. Stevie was once in a relationship with Sam, a man who died in a car accident that the main group of friends accidentally caused. She felt betrayed by them when they stopped reaching out after the incident, and she sought revenge for his death.

As the film progresses, it becomes clear that Stevie is not acting alone. Her actions are influenced by Ray Bronson, played by Freddie Prinze Jr., who had a long-standing connection to the original events of the first film. Ray, who runs a bar in the town, had promised to take care of Stevie after her father’s death. He encouraged her to seek revenge, but he also had his own motives tied to the past trauma of the original I Know What You Did Last Summer.

Who Dies in the Film?

Several key characters meet their fate in the film, some of which are particularly shocking:

1. Danica (Madelyn Cline)

Danica is one of the main protagonists, and her death is one of the most dramatic in the film. She is killed by Stevie during a boat scene, where she is trapped on a vessel with Ava. However, it is later revealed that Danica survives and washes up on the shore injured. This twist adds an extra layer of suspense and emotional weight to the story.

2. Stevie (Sarah Pidgeon)

Stevie meets her end during the final confrontation on the boat. After killing Danica, she falls into the water and appears to drown. However, the film leaves room for ambiguity—some viewers speculate that she may not be dead and could return in a future installment.

3. Ray Bronson (Freddie Prinze Jr.)

Ray is the second killer in the film, and his fate is sealed when Ava kills him in the bar. His death comes as a surprise to many, especially since he was previously seen as a mentor figure to the new group of friends. His motivations are deeply tied to the legacy of the original film, and his death serves as a form of justice for the trauma he helped perpetuate.

4. The Original Victims

While the film focuses on the new group of friends, it also pays homage to the original victims from the 1997 film. Characters like Helen (Sarah Michelle Gellar) and others are referenced throughout, with some fans speculating that they may appear in future installments or mid-credits scenes.

The Mid-Credits Scene

One of the most exciting moments in I Know What You Did Last Summer is the mid-credits scene, which sets up a potential sequel. The scene features Brandy as Karla, a character from the 1998 sequel I Still Know What You Did Last Summer. Karla watches a news report about the events in Southport and comments on Julie’s ongoing struggles. This scene hints at a larger universe and opens the door for more stories involving the original characters.

Who Survives?

Despite the high body count, two of the main characters survive the film:

1. Ava (Chase Sui Wonders)

Ava is the protagonist of the new film and one of the few who manages to escape the killer’s grasp. She plays a crucial role in uncovering the truth about Stevie and Ray and ultimately helps bring them to justice. Her survival is a nod to the original film, where Julie was the only survivor.

2. Julie James (Jennifer Love Hewitt)

Julie returns as a key figure in the film, offering guidance and support to the new generation of survivors. Her presence adds a sense of continuity and closure to the franchise. She also plays a pivotal role in the final confrontation, helping Ava defeat Ray.

The Cast and Their Roles

The film features a mix of returning stars and new talent, creating a strong ensemble that brings the story to life:

Chase Sui Wonders as Ava – A determined and resourceful protagonist who leads the charge against the killer.
Madelyn Cline as Danica – A close friend of Ava who is tragically killed but later revealed to be alive.
Sarah Pidgeon as Stevie – The vengeful killer with a tragic backstory.
Freddie Prinze Jr. as Ray – A complex character with hidden motives and a dark past.
Jennifer Love Hewitt as Julie – The original final girl who returns to help the new group of survivors.
Tyriq Withers as Teddy – A member of the group who initially covers up the accident but later plays a key role in the story.

Critical Reception and Fan Reactions

The film has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from critics and fans alike. Many praise the return of Jennifer Love Hewitt and Freddie Prinze Jr., as well as the fresh take on the classic horror formula. Critics have called it “one of the best legacy sequels” and “a perfect summer slasher.”

Fans have also been vocal about the film’s plot twists, particularly the revelation of Ray as a second killer and the ambiguous ending regarding Stevie’s fate. Some have even speculated that the film could lead to a trilogy or a continuation of the I Know What You Did Last Summer series.

Final Thoughts

I Know What You Did Last Summer is more than just a horror film—it’s a tribute to the original while also carving out its own place in the genre. The question of who dies in I Know What You Did Last Summer is central to the film’s tension and emotional impact. With its mix of suspense, nostalgia, and new storytelling, the film is sure to keep audiences engaged and talking long after the credits roll.

Stay updated with the latest news and reviews on trending movies in the US. Explore today’s headlines and discover what’s making waves in Hollywood and beyond.

Author: Alex Thompson

Title/Role: Senior Entertainment Writer

Credentials: Alex Thompson is a seasoned entertainment journalist with over a decade of experience covering film, television, and pop culture. He has contributed to major publications such as Variety, Rolling Stone, and The Hollywood Reporter.

Profile Link: https://www.alexthompsonentertainment.com

Sources:
– IMDb – I Know What You Did Last Summer (2025)
– Rotten Tomatoes – I Know What You Did Last Summer (2025)
– Variety – I Know What You Did Last Summer Review

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