Here’s What To Expect In Goosebumps: The Vanishing Thanks To New York Comic Con
Goosebumps returns for a second season in the Disney+ anthology called Goosebumps: The Vanishing. Creators Rob Letterman and Hilary Winston took the stage at New York Comic Con to reveal more about this new season, which will focus on R.L. Stine’s book Stay Out of the Basement.
This time, we’re headed to New York, where divorced botanist Anthony (David Schwimmer) has his kids coming to stay with him for the summer, stirring up both external and internal tension. But there’s a deeper story here: 30 years ago, a group of teens dared each other to break into an old fort, and one of them never made it out alive.
The season introduces new characters and fresh storylines. Cece and Devin, played by Jayden Bartles and Sam McCarthy, are Anthony’s twins from Manhattan, struggling to adjust to life in Gravesend, Brooklyn. Bartles teased that Cece is “a little dramatic,” while McCarthy related to Devin’s struggle, saying, “sometimes it’s difficult to adjust to a new environment.” Expect a good dose of family drama mixed with fun twists as Goosebumps’ classic scares are reimagined.
Stony Blyden, who plays Trey, adds more complexity, especially with Devin’s arrival shifting his relationship dynamics. “He’s kind of the reason for a whole lot of the chaos that goes on but is a good guy at his core,” Blyden explained. Meanwhile, Frankie (Galilea La Salvia) finds herself torn between Trey and Devin. She’s clear that hurting anyone isn’t her intention, but she’s forced into navigating her conflicting feelings.
Another key character, Alex, played by Francesca Noel, is the daughter of a detective who was part of that teenage group from 30 years ago. Alex’s storyline involves a haunted car and Noel was thrilled to bring her to life, describing Alex as a “superhero” and highlighting “being a Latina from Brooklyn” as meaningful to the role. Ana Ortiz, also a New Yorker, plays Alex’s detective mother who is determined to help her daughter stay on the right path, but also haunted by her own past.
Winston reflected on working with the cast, including Schwimmer, known for his comedy roles. “Comedy and horror are so closely tied together,” she said, adding, “if you’re looking for the punchline or the scare, they’re very similar.”
The new season embraces New York City, showcasing hidden gems that don’t often get screen time. Ortiz shared that she would often think, “Where am I?” on location, while the team also shot at spooky spots like Fort Totten.
And of course, a big part of Goosebumps’ magic is in its visual effects. This season’s effects team includes creatives from Avatar, Batman, and Marvel, with powerhouse Weta leading the charge. Blair Witch Project director Eduardo Sánchez joins for a found-footage episode, promising even more suspense.
Goosebumps: The Vanishing hits Disney+ and Hulu on January 10 .
