Carrie Series Star Summer Howell Teases Emaline Story For Season 2

4 hours ago 19

Samantha Sloyan and Summer H. Howell in Carrie

Published Nov 1, 2026, 9:56 PM EST

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Carrie season 2 could be one of the most twisted adaptations of the beloved Stephen King novel.

Created by Mike Flanagan, Carrie premiered on Prime Video on October 7, 2026. The adaptation reimagines King's 1974 novel while introducing new characters and exploring the origins of her powers. Following its debut, Amazon officially renewed Carrie for a second season on October 22.

Summer H. Howell, who plays Carrie, has teased what audiences can expect from the Prime Video horror series' second season, including answers to one of the biggest mysteries surrounding its dramatic finale. The upcoming chapter will continue the story of Carrie White following several major changes from King's original book.

In a recent interview with The Direct, Howell reveals that viewers will eventually understand the reasoning behind the unexpected changes. The actor also addressed the criticism surrounding Emaline West (Thalia Dudek). While the character's actions have divided viewers, Howell defended her role in the events of the series and hinted that Carrie season 2 will resolve several questions about her motivations and place in the larger story.

Howell also urged audiences to remain patient with the show's unconventional storytelling choices. She explained that the reasoning behind Flanagan's approach will become clearer as the narrative continues, hinting that the first season's ending was designed to establish developments and events that have yet to unfold.

We were always making something different with our version of Carrie, and we get to explore the TK gene a bit and all these other special women. I think it sets up the future more, and a lot of questions will be answered about Emaline, and I know she's got a lot of hate online, but I think it's unnecessary. I think if you're here for something new and fresh, I think just wait. You'll see why Mike Flanagan decided to do it this way.

Additionally, Howell explained the significant changes to the original story and what they mean for the show's future. In particular, the actor discussed the introduction of Emaline, whose involvement in the horrifying prom night changes Carrie's role in the unfortunate incident. She said that the creative team wanted to develop their own version of King's story from the beginning. By adding new characters with supernatural abilities and exploring the origins of those powers, the series has changed the lore of the franchise, which was the point.

In the series, Emaline develops a relationship with Carrie throughout the first season. During the finale, Carrie allows her to psychically take control of her body, allowing her to participate in the massacre. Although Emaline becomes responsible for a lot of the violence, Carrie is still aware of what's happening. Flanagan has explained in the past that preserving Carrie's control was an important element they kept in mind when they wrote the scene, meaning that Emaline's actions do not take away Carrie's responsibility.

Instead of ending with Carrie's death, the series first season spares her, and she escapes with Emaline. The final moments of Carrie season 1 also show the character beginning to accept herself. However, the ending is ambiguous enough that it is uncertain whether this is a good change or not.