CM Punk Headlines Shudder's Genre-Bending Vampire Comedy 'Night Patrol'

3 hours ago7 min read2 comments

Shudder, AMC's premier streaming service for horror fans, has made a major power play with the announcement of 'Night Patrol,' a vampire comedy set for release on January 16, 2026. In a casting coup, the film will be headlined by WWE World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk (Phil Brooks), who transitions from the wrestling ring to the graveyard shift as a police officer who moonlights as a creature of the night.This leading role marks a significant foray into acting for the superstar, leveraging his proven talent for blending raw authenticity with theatrical flair—a skill set perfectly suited for a genre that demands a balance of genuine scares and self-aware humor. Punk is joined by a formidable comedic ensemble including Justin Long, Jermaine Fowler, RJ Cyler, and rapper Freddie Gibbs.The film's premise, a mashup of buddy-cop dynamics and supernatural comedy reminiscent of 'Training Day' meets 'What We Do in the Shadows,' positions it as a potential franchise starter. For Shudder, this strategic move aims to leverage Punk's massive, dedicated fanbase to create a significant box office event, potentially redefining how niche streamers approach theatrical releases for original genre content. For CM Punk, 'Night Patrol' represents a calculated expansion of his personal brand beyond sports entertainment, cementing his legacy in a project that feels authentically unconventional and risk-taking.

#featured

#CM Punk

#Justin Long

#Night Patrol

#Shudder

#vampire comedy

#wrestling star

#2026 release