Dominic Purcell’s Instagram post reignited hopes of a Prison Break Season 6, but the real update is even clearer: Hulu has ordered a new Prison Break series. It’s set in the same universe with a new cast and a fresh story – and so far, it won’t include Purcell or Wentworth Miller.
For years, it’s been a rollercoaster for fans hoping the franchise would return. That’s why it landed so hard when Dominic Purcell (Lincoln Burrows) posted on Instagram about a “new iteration” of Prison Break. The headline-friendly takeaway was obvious: season 6 is happening. The fuller story is a little different – and, in some ways, even more real.
So, Is Prison Break Season 6 Actually Happening?
Not in the classic sense. What’s in motion is a new Prison Break series (basically a reboot or new chapter) rather than a continuation of Michael Scofield and Lincoln Burrows’ storyline as “Season 6,” so we don't get to get our hopes up there. Still, Hulu has moved beyond rumor and development talk: the new Prison Break has been ordered to series, which is a major step up from the franchise’s many past almost-comebacks.
That nuance matters, because Purcell’s post didn’t say he was returning – it basically did the opposite, and it's not even even available anymore.
In the post, Purcell wrote that a new iteration of Prison Break is in early stages without himself or Wentworth Miller, adding that “that chapter has closed.” It’s bittersweet for longtime fans, but it also aligns with the direction Hulu is taking: new characters, new story, same universe.
Hulu’s Prison Break Reboot: The Biggest New Update
Here’s the clearest signal yet that this is really happening: after being reported in development, then moving into pilot territory, Hulu has now ordered the new Prison Break to series. That means the project is no longer just “being discussed” but a produced show with forward momentum.
If you’ve been burned by hopeful headlines before, this is the update that changes the math: a series order is the kind of commitment that the franchise’s many “maybe” moments never reached.
Prison Break Reboot Cast: Who’s In?
Instead of bringing back the original gang, Hulu’s new take is building around a fresh ensemble. Several cast members have been reported as leads for the new series, including:
- Emily Browning as Cassidy Collins
- Lukas Gage as Jackson
- Drake Rodger as Tommy
- Clayton Cardenas
- JR Bourne
- Georgie Flores
- Myles Bullock
There have also been reports of notable guest roles tied to the pilot, including Margo Martindale, Donal Logue, Lili Taylor, and Ray McKinnon.
Plot: How Does Prison Break Continue Without Michael and Lincoln?
The new story is set in the same world, but it’s not built as a direct extension of Scofield’s escape saga. The reboot is described as centering on Cassidy, an ex-soldier turned corrections officer who takes a job at one of the deadliest prisons in America – and she does it for a deeply personal reason. In other words, it’s still Prison Break: a pressure-cooker institution, desperate stakes, and people pushed into extreme decisions. The difference is that the point of view is new.
Creative-wise, Hulu has attached Elgin James (Mayans M.C.) as the writer/executive producer, with the original series’ creator Paul Scheuring also involved as an executive producer – a mix that suggests a new voice, but not a total disconnect from what made the brand work in the first place. So here's hoping to a show that feels more like the earlier seasons of the original show, right?
Will Wentworth Miller or Dominic Purcell Return?
As of now, no returning cast members have been confirmed. Miller has previously stated he’s done playing Michael Scofield, and Purcell’s Instagram message strongly implies he’s sitting this one out as well. The reboot’s premise is designed to stand on its own, so any legacy appearances – if they happen at all – would likely be surprise cameos rather than the foundation.
Release Date: When Is Prison Break Coming Out?
There is no release date yet. The project has progressed significantly (including pilot-related production and a series order), but Hulu hasn’t announced a premiere window. Until an official date drops, the safest answer is that it’s in active development/production stages and moving forward but we don’t have the calendar circled yet.
As soon as there’s any news to share, you can be sure we’ll update you!
But now it's your turn: Do you think Prison Break should be left alone or are you up for a new entry in the universe? Let us know in the comments!