The studio has greenlit The Housemaid’s Secret, based on the second novel in author Freida McFadden’s best-selling trilogy. The follow-up has already been in development for several months, with production expected to begin later this year.
The first film, directed by Paul Feig, stars Sydney Sweeney as Millie, a troubled young woman looking for a fresh start. She takes a live-in housemaid job with a wealthy couple — Nina and Andrew Winchester — only to discover that the picture-perfect home hides dangerous secrets.
The Housemaid has grossed $133 million worldwide in just over two weeks, including $75.7 million in North America, against a reported $35 million budget. The R-rated thriller’s success, combined with strong social media engagement, convinced Lionsgate to quickly move ahead with a sequel.
Adam Fogelson, chair of Lionsgate’s motion picture group, said audiences clearly want more of Millie’s story.
“It’s clear from both the global box office and from the outpouring on social media that audiences have responded strongly — and audibly — to the totally unique and truly theatrical experience of The Housemaid and want to know what happens next,” Fogelson said in a statement.
The Housemaid’s Secret will once again be adapted by screenwriter Rebecca Sonnenshine. Producers Todd Lieberman, Feig, and Laura Fischer are also returning, with Sweeney and McFadden serving as executive producers.
Feig said the sequel benefits from having a ready-made continuation on the page.
“We’re lucky that Freida McFadden has already extended Millie’s journey in the books, and that we get to work with Rebecca Sonnenshine and Lionsgate to bring this next story to audiences,” he said.
The original cast included Amanda Seyfried, Brandon Sklenar, Michele Morrone, and Elizabeth Perkins. While full casting details for the sequel have not been announced, Seyfried has already hinted she may return in a cameo role.
Speaking at the Palm Springs International Film Festival, Seyfried said a sequel felt inevitable and suggested her character could still be pulling strings behind the scenes.
The Housemaid book series has been a massive hit, selling more than 12 million copies worldwide. The second novel alone accounts for four million sales, and the franchise has been translated into 40 languages. The first book spent over a year on The New York Times bestseller list and won the 2023 Goodreads Choice Award for best thriller.
With a proven audience, a returning creative team, and a ready-made story, Lionsgate is betting that Millie’s dark journey will continue to keep moviegoers hooked.
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