Maika Monroe is heading back to horror - and a new dance craze is coming to ABC

Maika Monroe is making a bold return to horror. Fresh off her chilling performance in Longlegs, she's set to star in Victorian Psycho, a film adaptation of the polarizing novel of the same name. Known for its unsettling exploration of identity and madness, the book has drawn both acclaim and criticism - and Monroe's involvement is already raising expectations. The project, produced by Bleecker Street, aims to lean into the psychological depth of the source material, with Monroe playing a dual role that tests her range and stamina.

Victorian Psycho isn't your typical slasher flick. It's more mood than gore, more dread than jump scares - a tone Monroe seems perfectly suited for. Her past work in indie horror like It Follows and The Guest gave her a cult following, and Longlegs cemented her as a modern horror standout. Fans are hopeful she'll bring the same quiet intensity to this new role. Early set reports describe a gothic, claustrophobic atmosphere, with period costumes and a score that leans on dissonant strings and silence.

Meanwhile, ABC is doubling down on dance. The network has officially renewed Dancing with the Stars for Season 35 and announced the first two contestants: Maura Higgins, the sharp-tongued fan favorite from The Traitors and Love Island, and Ciara Miller, known for her charisma on Summer House. Both bring strong personalities and built-in audiences, which could shake up the usual rhythm of the ballroom.

But the bigger news might be the spinoff: Dancing with the Stars: The Next Pro, set to premiere this summer. Unlike the main show, which pairs celebrities with pro dancers, this version will feature up-and-coming professionals competing against each other. The twist? They'll choreograph and perform original routines, judged not just on technique but on artistry and innovation. It's a nod to the dancers who usually stay in the background, giving them a spotlight of their own.

The move makes sense. Reality TV is shifting, with networks looking to refresh aging franchises. By launching a summer spinoff, ABC keeps the DWTS brand active year-round and taps into the growing interest in dance as both sport and storytelling. The promo released at Disney's Get Real event teased high-energy performances, emotional backstories, and a sleek, modern stage design - a fresh look for the franchise.

Together, these developments highlight how entertainment is balancing prestige and pop. On one side, a serious horror film with an acclaimed actor tackling complex material. On the other, a glossy, upbeat reality series expanding its reach. Both aim to capture attention in a crowded market - one through tension and atmosphere, the other through rhythm and personality.

Whether it's Monroe stepping into a haunted psyche or a new generation of dancers vying for the spotlight, there's something quietly exciting about both projects. They're not reinventing the wheel, but they're pushing their genres forward in ways that feel timely. And for viewers, that means more reasons to tune in - whether with the lights on or off.