The Ring Timeline

From the original curse of Sadako to the American legend of Samara Morgan, this timeline follows the major steps in The Ring franchise.

1991

Ring Novel

Koji Suzuki's novel Ring is released in Japan, introducing the cursed videotape story that would later become one of the most famous horror legends in cinema.

1995

First Japanese TV Adaptation

Ring receives an early television adaptation, helping bring the story from the page to the screen before the film version became internationally known.

1998

Ringu

The Japanese film Ringu is released, turning Sadako and the cursed tape into horror icons. Its quiet atmosphere, mystery, and final television scene became unforgettable.

1999

Ringu 2

Ringu 2 continues the Japanese film story and explores the aftermath of Sadako's curse.

2000

Ring 0: Birthday

Ring 0: Birthday serves as a prequel, showing more of Sadako's tragic background before the curse became attached to the videotape.

2002

The Ring

The American remake The Ring is released, introducing Samara Morgan to a new audience. The film helped bring Japanese horror influence into mainstream American horror.

2005

The Ring Two

The Ring Two continues Rachel and Aidan's story while digging deeper into Samara's connection to water, motherhood, and possession.

2012

Sadako 3D

Sadako returns in a newer Japanese entry that updates the curse for the digital age.

2016

Sadako vs. Kayako

The Ring franchise crosses over with Ju-On/The Grudge, bringing two major Japanese horror icons into the same story.

2017

Rings

Rings brings the American version of the curse into the internet era, expanding the mythology around Samara and the videotape.

2019

Sadako

Another Japanese film entry returns to Sadako's story and continues the franchise's long-running presence in horror.

2022

Sadako DX

Sadako DX offers a newer take on the curse, showing how the Ring legend continues to evolve years after the original story.

"Seven days." A simple warning that became one of horror's most famous countdowns.