American Psycho Author Says New Reboot Movie With Austin Butler Is "Fake News"

Bret Easton Ellis has come out to state that Lionsgate's supposed AmericanPsycho reboot movie doesn't exist, suggesting that the reported production is simply part of a ploy to gauge interest. Mary Harron's darkly comedic and satirical psychological horror brought Ellis' 1991 novel to the big screen in 2000, telling the story of a vain, egotistical banker living a double life as a serial killer. AmericanPsycho starred Christian Bale as Patrick Bateman, alongside Reese Witherspoon, Willem Dafoe, and Jared Leto.

On his The Bret Easton Ellis Podcast, the author recently debunked rumors of AmericanPsycho's reboot on his podcast. He suggested that no contracts with Butler or potential director Luca Gudagino have been signed and have simply been reported to gauge audience interest:

I have a feeling it’s fake news. I heard somewhere, from someone, that there are no contracts. Austin Butler hasn’t signed anything to play Patrick Bateman. Luca doesn’t have a deal. Scott Burns, who is supposed to write the screenplay, doesn’t have a deal either. From various sources that I have, this is just fake news that was put out there to see how an audience is going to react.

Ellis also stated he had not been contacted and cast doubt that he would have any creative involvement in the reboot. Check out Ellis's statement below:

If it does exist, I am not involved, I have nothing to do with this, I might get some money if they do this, but I am not involved creatively on any level, and that is all I know.

What Ellis's Response Means For The American Psycho Remake

The Strategy Follows Recent Hollywood Trends

Ellis's assessment of the AmericanPsycho remake may hold some weight based on recent reports from Lionsgate and practices in Hollywood. The production company was left to grapple with a disappointing second-quarter financial report in 2024 following the release of the box-office bomb Borderlands. Chairman Adam Fogelson stated that the company would respond by pivoting its focus to proven properties, and AmericanPsycho stands as one under its banner that has had continued appeal.

Furthermore, it was reported in October that many Hollywood studios have assembled focus groups of "Super fans" that would have a greater impact on how projects are developed. While Lionsgate would rely on a wider public consensus rather than a specific group, early reports of a potential American Psycho remake would allow the studio to receive insight into what steps could make the production a worthwhile investment.

Our Thoughts On Ellis's American Psycho Remake Debunking

The Strategy Could Backfire On Lionsgate

Patrick Bateman looking at Paul Allen's business card in American Psycho.

AmericanPsycho has had an unlikely lasting grip on audiences for over 24 years. While it was undoubtedly both a financial and critical success upon release, the film has earned a diverse cult following. These audiences include those who appreciate its satirical approach to materialism and narcism and those who have unfortunately framed Bateman as an aspirational figure.

With its own status and discussions of a remake coming as both its suggested star and director have seen great success throughout the year, Ellis's update of an AmericanPsycho remake is a gamble that could impact audience interest. While it may offer the studio insight into how to proceed, it could also damage any confidence certain viewers may have in the project, as it shows little faith and care that has been given to the project thus far.

Source: The Bret Easton Ellis Podcast