/indigomusic/media/media_files/2025/10/13/feature-the-strangers-2025-10-13-10-36-51.png)
Madelaine Petsch has cemented her status as one of Hollywood's modern-day scream queens. At 31, the talented actress has captivated audiences with her performances as Cheryl Blossom in 'Riverdale' and Maya in the 'The Strangers' movie franchise.
In an exclusive conversation with PEOPLE about 'The Strangers: Chapter 2,' Petsch shared that her passion for horror runs deep. She admitted that she enjoys exploring all kinds of scary movies, from intense thrillers to creature features, and particularly gravitates toward sophisticated, thought-provoking horror films such as 'Climax' by Gaspar Noé and 'Weapons' by Zach Cregger.
Petsch also has a soft spot for shark movies, explaining that even the most over-the-top horror stories have something enjoyable about them. For her, the fun and excitement of the genre are what truly matter.
/filters:format(webp)/indigomusic/media/media_files/2025/10/13/the-strangers2-2025-10-13-10-36-51.jpg)
Image Courtesy: IMDb
Madelaine Petsch's Favourite "Final Girl"
When asked about her favourite "final girl," Petsch named Ellen Ripley from 'Alien,' the iconic character portrayed by Sigourney Weaver in the 1979 sci-fi horror classic. Ripley's resilience and strength clearly resonate with Petsch, who herself has taken on a similar role of survival in 'The Strangers' series.
After debuting in 'The Strangers: Chapter 1' in 2024, Madelaine Petsch returns in the sequel to continue Maya's terrifying story. The new film follows her character as she tries to rebuild her life following the brutal attack that took her boyfriend’s life—only to find herself hunted once again by the masked killers.
Directed by Renny Harlin, 'The Strangers: Chapter 2' is the second instalment in a trilogy, with a third film already in development.
/filters:format(webp)/indigomusic/media/media_files/2025/10/13/the-strangers-2-2025-10-13-10-38-33.jpg)
Image Courtesy: IMDb
Madelaine Petsch's Process of Portraying Horror Roles
Reflecting on her work in 'Riverdale,' Petsch explained that the show's dark and eerie tone helped her prepare for the demands of horror roles. She recalled having to deliver long, intense screams on set, which she believes strengthened her ability to handle the emotional and physical challenges of 'The Strangers.'
Despite her love for the genre, Madelaine Petsch admitted that shooting high-intensity horror scenes can be exhausting. She confessed that she's still learning how to decompress after emotionally draining days on set, often relying on laughter and humour to release tension.
/filters:format(webp)/indigomusic/media/media_files/2025/10/13/the-strangers-2025-10-13-10-36-51.jpg)
Image Courtesy: IMDb
The actress also opened up about one of the toughest moments from filming—a scene involving an attack by a wild boar. She described feeling anxious and intimidated before shooting, but ultimately pushed through by focusing her mind and silencing her doubts.
Madelaine Petsch continues to embrace the challenges of horror with enthusiasm and authenticity, proving why she's one of the genre's most compelling stars. Fans can now catch her in 'The Strangers: Chapter 2,' which is currently playing in theatres.
