The bad news first: there isn’t a new episode of Pretty Little Liars (PLL) currently scheduled to air. The popular Freeform series officially concluded on June 27, 2017, with its seventh season finale. While various spin-offs and reboots have emerged, the original PLL chapter is definitively closed, leaving many fans perpetually wondering about the possibility of a true continuation.
Understanding the PLL Universe: Past, Present, and Potential Future
Pretty Little Liars captivated audiences with its intricate mysteries, compelling characters, and endless twists. The show’s enduring popularity explains the constant inquiries about its return. To fully understand the answer to “when is next episode of pretty little liars,” it’s necessary to explore the show’s history and current landscape.
Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin and Beyond
While the original PLL concluded, the Pretty Little Liars franchise wasn’t entirely dead. Pretty Little Liars: The Perfectionists, a short-lived spin-off, attempted to capture the magic, but ultimately fell short. More recently, Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin premiered on HBO Max (now Max) in 2022. This series, though set within the same overall universe, introduced a new generation of Liars and a fresh mystery in a different town. As of now, Original Sin has been canceled after two seasons.
This cancellation, while disappointing for some, underscores a key point: finding the PLL formula that resonates with both die-hard fans and newcomers is a challenge. The original show’s intricate web of secrets and relationships proved difficult to replicate.
The Possibility of a True Reboot
Despite the absence of immediate plans, the world of television is constantly evolving. The enduring popularity of Pretty Little Liars means that the possibility of a true reboot, featuring a new cast or even revisiting the original characters, is never entirely off the table. Streaming services are constantly looking for content with built-in fan bases, and PLL certainly ticks that box. However, any such project would need to be carefully considered and executed to avoid alienating existing fans while attracting a new audience.
Pretty Little Liars FAQs: Addressing Your Burning Questions
Here’s a deep dive into some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding the PLL saga:
FAQ 1: Will the Original Cast Ever Reunite for a Special?
While there are no confirmed plans for a full-fledged reunion, members of the original cast have expressed interest in revisiting their characters in some capacity. Scheduling conflicts and creative differences often present significant hurdles, but the possibility remains. Keep an eye out for cast interviews and social media posts for any potential hints or announcements. Never say never!
FAQ 2: Where Can I Watch Pretty Little Liars Seasons 1-7?
You can typically find all seasons of Pretty Little Liars available for streaming on platforms like Max (formerly HBO Max). Check your local streaming service listings as availability may vary. Physical copies of the series are also available for purchase.
FAQ 3: What Happened in the PLL Finale?
The PLL finale revealed that Spencer Hastings had a twin sister, Alex Drake, who was “A.D.” The complex plot involved kidnapping, impersonation, and a desperate attempt to steal Spencer’s life. In the end, the Liars managed to expose Alex and bring her to justice. The finale also featured wedding bells and new beginnings for the core group.
FAQ 4: Are There Any PLL Books Left to Adapt?
The Pretty Little Liars series was based on the books by Sara Shepard. The original series largely covered the content of the books, although some plot lines and characters were significantly altered or omitted. While there isn’t much material left to directly adapt, a new series could draw inspiration from the PLL universe and create an entirely original story.
FAQ 5: Who Was “A” in the Original Pretty Little Liars?
Over the course of the series, multiple individuals donned the “A” persona. Mona Vanderwaal was the original “A” in the first two seasons. Charlotte DiLaurentis (also known as CeCe Drake) took over the role for several seasons, followed by Alex Drake as “A.D.” The revolving door of villains was a hallmark of the show’s unpredictable nature.
FAQ 6: What is Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin About?
Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin focused on a new group of teenage girls in Millwood, Pennsylvania, who are terrorized by an unknown assailant connected to a past tragedy involving their mothers. The series incorporated elements of horror and suspense, offering a darker and grittier take on the PLL formula. While it shared some thematic similarities with the original, it largely stood on its own.
FAQ 7: Why Was Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin Cancelled?
The cancellation of Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin was likely due to a combination of factors, including viewership numbers, critical reception, and budgetary considerations at Max. While the series had its fans, it didn’t achieve the same level of widespread popularity as the original PLL. Streaming services often prioritize shows with strong viewership growth potential.
FAQ 8: Could the PLL Universe Expand with a Different Spin-Off?
Absolutely! The Pretty Little Liars universe is ripe for expansion. A spin-off could explore the lives of secondary characters from the original series, focus on a completely new group of Liars in a different location, or even delve into the origins of “A.” The possibilities are endless, as long as the storytelling remains engaging and true to the spirit of the original.
FAQ 9: How Did Pretty Little Liars Impact Teen Drama?
Pretty Little Liars significantly influenced the landscape of teen drama by popularizing the mystery genre within the demographic. Its blend of suspense, romance, and fashion resonated with viewers, and its use of social media as a storytelling device was innovative. The show also paved the way for other teen-centric thrillers and mysteries.
FAQ 10: Who Was Your Favorite Liar and Why?
This is subjective, of course! However, many viewers resonated with Spencer Hastings (played by Troian Bellisario) due to her intelligence, ambition, and struggles with mental health. Her character arc was complex and compelling, making her a fan favorite.
FAQ 11: How Can I Stay Updated on PLL-Related News?
Follow official Pretty Little Liars social media accounts (if any are still active), entertainment news outlets, and cast members’ social media pages. These sources often provide updates on potential reunions, spin-offs, or reboots. Remember to take rumors with a grain of salt until confirmed by official sources.
FAQ 12: What Makes Pretty Little Liars So Addictive?
The show’s addictive nature stems from its intricate plot twists, relatable characters (despite their often-unrealistic situations), and the constant suspense of not knowing who “A” truly is. The element of mystery, combined with the emotional connections viewers formed with the Liars, made it difficult to stop watching. The show tapped into the anxieties and insecurities of adolescence while simultaneously offering escapism and thrilling entertainment.
Conclusion: The Legacy of Lies
While a new episode of the original Pretty Little Liars isn’t on the horizon, the show’s legacy continues to endure. Its impact on teen drama and the enduring popularity of its characters ensure that the possibility of a future revival or spin-off will always linger. Until then, fans can revisit the original series, explore other entries in the PLL universe, and eagerly await any future announcements. The lies may have ended, but the mystery lives on. The question, “when is next episode of pretty little liars?” remains unanswered for now, but never say never to the potential of a return to Rosewood.