Sydney Sweeney Thriller Sequel Greenlit After $133mn Success
The Housemaid sequel officially moves forward with returning stars Sydney Sweeney and Michele Morrone, adapting Freida McFadden's follow-up novel after the original's impressive box office performance.
Just three weeks after hitting cinemas, Sydney Sweeney's psychological thriller has secured a follow-up film. The announcement comes as the original movie continues its strong theatrical run, pulling in $133mn worldwide against its modest $35mn production cost.
The first film, adapted from Freida McFadden's bestselling book, centers on Millie, portrayed by Sweeney. She's a woman carrying baggage from her past who accepts work as a live-in domestic helper for an affluent household harboring sinister mysteries. Amanda Seyfried takes on the role of Nina Winchester, Millie's demanding boss.
Box Office Performance Drives Quick Decision
Since its December 19 launch, the movie has exceeded studio expectations. Critics offered mixed reactions, though Rotten Tomatoes currently shows a 73% Certified Fresh rating. The financial success clearly influenced the rapid sequel approval.
The follow-up will draw from McFadden's second book, titled "The Housemaid's Secret." This installment places Millie in employment with a different family, creating fresh opportunities for suspense and psychological drama.
Cast and Crew Return
Sweeney will reprise her lead role alongside Michele Morrone, who played Enzo, the Winchester family's groundskeeper in the original. Director Paul Feig and screenwriter Rebecca Sonnenshine are both returning to maintain continuity.
Production is scheduled to begin later this year. "It's been thrilling to see audiences around the world fall in love with The Housemaid and the incredible work of our talented cast and crew," Feig stated. "We're lucky that Freida McFadden has already extended Millie's journey on the page, and that we get to work with Rebecca Sonnenshine and Lionsgate to bring this next story to audiences."
The original remains in theaters nationwide as the sequel enters pre-production phases.