Ethan Hawke Will Lead Midnight Radio Horror Podcast
The nine-episode scripted series will debut on October 22, 2026, featuring a star-studded cast.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Horror
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iHeartPodcasts will release the new nine-episode scripted horror series Midnight Radio, starring Ethan Hawke as a late-night radio host, beginning October 22, 2026. The series will be available on the iHeartRadio app and other major podcast platforms.
Why it matters
The independently financed series marks a significant entry into scripted horror podcasting, utilizing a prominent cast to deliver a serialized narrative.
The series consists of nine episodes that will roll out on a weekly basis. New installments are scheduled for release every Thursday at 12 a.m. PT.
The players
Ethan Hawke
He is an Academy Award-nominated actor and writer known for his versatile roles in film and theater.
Scott Derrickson
He is a filmmaker and screenwriter widely recognized for his work in the horror and supernatural thriller genres.
C. Robert Cargill
He is a screenwriter and author known for his collaborative horror projects with Scott Derrickson.
Vincent D'Onofrio
He is a prolific character actor known for his intense performances across television and film.
Noah Centineo
He is an actor who gained widespread recognition for his roles in popular streaming service romantic comedies.
The details
Created and co-written by Scott Derrickson and C. Robert Cargill, the project features a cast including Noah Centineo, Willa Fitzgerald, Vincent D'Onofrio, Levon Hawke, Austin Pendleton, and Hubert Point-Du Jour. The production was independently financed and managed by Under The Influence Productions, Crooked Highway, and Mickey Schiff.
Timeline
The first episode of Midnight Radio will be released on October 22, 2026.
New episodes are scheduled to release every Thursday at 12 a.m. PT.
Industry Dynamics
The release of Midnight Radio highlights the continued expansion of major audio networks into high-budget, scripted episodic horror. This trend mirrors the broader shift where traditional Hollywood talent increasingly pivots to narrative podcasting as a primary storytelling medium.
Listeners can access the full nine-episode series through the iHeartRadio app or other major podcast platforms. Because the episodes are serialized and build upon preceding installments, listeners should plan to follow the weekly release schedule to maintain the narrative flow.
The takeaway
Horror enthusiasts can prepare for the series by clearing time for the weekly Thursday morning drop-off. Engaging with the series as it rolls out ensures a shared experience with the broader audience as the mystery unfolds.
What happens next
The series premiere is set for October 22, 2026, followed by recurring weekly episode releases on Thursdays at 12 a.m. PT.
Further reading
Discover more about the evolving landscape of audio storytelling in our Horror section.
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