Percy Jackson fans have reason to be excited. Rick Riordan has officially confirmed that Holt McCallany, known for his roles in Mindhunter and The Waterfront, will portray the Titan Atlas in Season 3 of Percy Jackson and the Olympians.
This casting decision is more than just a stunt; it marks a major escalation in the series’ villain roster. Atlas, the Bearer of the Heavens, was condemned by Zeus to hold up the sky after the Titanomachy. Now, freed from his eternal burden, he aligns with Kronos and leads a campaign of vengeance against the Olympians.
McCallany’s Atlas is expected to appear in six episodes, making him a central antagonist not just for Season 3 but possibly beyond. The character’s return is significant because Atlas is one of the most powerful Titans in Greek mythology, and his presence means Percy and his friends will face one of their most dangerous challenges yet.
Riordan has teased that this version of Atlas will be “in your face,” emphasizing a more direct and personal threat to the demigods.
The casting of McCallany, known for his commanding presence and nuanced performances, suggests that Atlas will be more than just a physical threat; he will also challenge Percy emotionally and morally.
Fans are eager to see how McCallany’s portrayal will heighten the tension and stakes in Season 3, especially given his track record in portraying complex, intimidating characters.
What’s New in Season 3: Expanding the Mythos
Season 3 of Percy Jackson and the Olympians is set to adapt The Titan’s Curse, the third book in Rick Riordan’s bestselling series. The storyline follows Percy as he embarks on a perilous mission to rescue Artemis and Annabeth, both of whom are captured by Atlas.
This quest pushes the demigods into uncharted territory, introducing new allies and enemies, and deepening the emotional stakes.
The expanded cast for Season 3 includes David Costabile as Dr. Thorn, a stern military academy headmaster, and Jesse L. Martin as Frederick Chase, Annabeth’s mortal father. These additions promise to enrich the show’s narrative, offering new dynamics and backstory for key characters.
The inclusion of Chase, in particular, is a nod to the books’ exploration of Annabeth’s complicated relationship with her father, adding layers to her character development.
Percy Jackson and Olympians (Credit: Disney+)
Riordan has also highlighted how the adaptation enhances the emotional depth of the story compared to the original novels. Scenes that were subtle in the books gain greater intensity when visualized on screen, allowing the audience to connect more deeply with Percy and Annabeth’s evolving relationship.
This focus on emotional depth, combined with the high-stakes action and mythology, sets Season 3 apart from previous installments.
The Titan’s Curse also brings new challenges for the demigods. The book and upcoming season explore themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the consequences of choices made under pressure. Percy’s journey is not just about defeating a powerful enemy but also about growing as a hero and learning to trust his friends and instincts.
The expanded cast and the adaptation’s attention to character development ensure that Season 3 will be a standout chapter in the Percy Jackson saga.
Fan Reactions and What’s Next
The announcement of Holt McCallany’s casting as Atlas has generated significant buzz among fans and critics alike. Many are eager to see how McCallany will bring the legendary Titan to life, and how his presence will impact the series’ tone and direction.
The expanded cast and the adaptation of The Titan’s Curse have also raised expectations for the show’s future, with fans speculating about potential storylines and character arcs beyond Season 3.
Despite the excitement, there are questions about the series’ long-term prospects. As of now, Percy Jackson and the Olympians has not been officially renewed for Season 4, leaving fans wondering what comes next after the climactic events of The Titan’s Curse.
However, the show’s strong fanbase and critical acclaim suggest that the series could continue to evolve, introducing new threats and allies in future seasons.
Season 3 of Percy Jackson and the Olympians promises to be a game-changer, with Holt McCallany’s Atlas leading the charge and a host of new characters and storylines enriching the mythos.
The show’s blend of action, mythology, and emotional depth continues to captivate audiences, making it a must-watch for fans of fantasy and adventure.
Ghosts’ 2025 holiday special, “It’s a Wonderful Christmas Carol,” delivers a mix of festive cheer and deep emotional insight, pushing its lead character, Samantha “Sam” Arondekar, into uncharted territory.
In this two-part episode, Sam is invited to a national broadcast to promote her book, but chaos ensues when Flower, one of the resident ghosts, possesses her. The possession leads to Sam getting high, missing her interview, and waking up with a powerful wish: she wants to have never seen the ghosts at all.
The showrunners use this moment to craft an alternate reality where Sam experiences life at Woodstone Mansion without her supernatural gift.
In this new world, Sam is isolated , her relationship with Jay is strained, and her life lacks the joy and purpose that come from helping the spirits find peace. The twist is both shocking and moving, forcing viewers to reflect on the importance of connection and community.
The Twist That No One Saw Coming
What makes this episode especially memorable is the dark twist: Sam’s alternate reality is actually a drug-induced dream, a result of Flower’s wild experiment while possessing her body.
As Sam navigates this dream, she sees the ghosts struggling without her, each spirit forced to face their unresolved issues alone, without Sam’s empathy and support. The episode cleverly blurs the line between reality and fantasy, using the dream to reveal just how much Sam’s presence has shaped the lives of those around her.
This twist is not just a gimmick; it’s a powerful narrative device that highlights the show’s central theme: that our connections with others, even the unconventional ones, are what give our lives meaning.
Ghosts (Credit: CBS)
Sam’s journey through the dream forces her to confront her own regrets and insecurities, ultimately leading her to appreciate the role she plays in the lives of the ghosts and her own family. The episode’s emotional depth resonates with fans, who have praised it as one of the show’s strongest outings to date.
The Emotional Impact on Sam and the Ghosts
The holiday special doesn’t just focus on Sam’s personal growth; it also explores the mutual impact she and the ghosts have on one another. In the alternate reality, the ghosts are shown to be more lost and aimless without Sam’s guidance, highlighting the symbiotic relationship that has developed between them.
This dynamic adds new layers to the series’ ongoing narrative, reminding viewers that the bonds formed at Woodstone Mansion are as real and meaningful as any traditional family.
Sam’s journey through the dream also serves as a poignant reminder of the show’s ability to balance humor and heart. While the episode is filled with laugh-out-loud moments and festive chaos, it never loses sight of its emotional core.
The show’s writers and performers deliver a standout performance, making this one of the most memorable episodes in the series’ history.
Fan Reactions and Critical Acclaim
The 2025 holiday special has been met with overwhelming praise from both fans and critics. Social media buzz was electric, with viewers sharing their favorite moments and emotional reactions. Many noted how the episode’s exploration of Sam’s character and her impact on the ghosts added new layers to the series’ ongoing narrative.
The episode’s critical reception has also been overwhelmingly positive, with reviewers praising its clever writing, emotional storytelling, and standout performances.
As the show approaches its sixth season, it’s clear that Ghosts has become a staple of holiday television, offering something unique that other sitcoms simply can’t match. The holiday special’s success comes not just from its humor, but from its ability to balance laughs with heartfelt moments that resonate with audiences of all ages.
The Legacy of Sam’s Journey
Ghosts’ 2025 holiday special is a testament to the show’s ability to blend festive cheer with deep emotional insight. By exploring the harsh truth about Sam’s life and the impact she has on those around her, the episode delivers a powerful reminder of the importance of connection and community.
The dark twist and emotional depth make this one of the most memorable episodes in the series’ history, cementing Ghosts’ place as a beloved holiday tradition.
Sam’s story is more than just a plot device; it’s a reflection of the show’s core values: empathy, connection, and the power of family, however unconventional. The episode’s blend of humor, heart, and a twist that no one saw coming ensures that it will be remembered as one of the most impactful moments in the series’ run.
