The Housemaid’s Secret Set for Theatrical Release

Lionsgate has announced that "The Housemaid’s Secret," the sequel to the successful thriller "The Housemaid," will be released in theaters on December 17, 2027. This date marks exactly two years after the original film, which grossed nearly $400 million worldwide against a budget of $35 million. The first installment opened to $19 million but maintained strong box office performance throughout the holiday season.

Variety Magazine

In "The Housemaid’s Secret," Sydney Sweeney reprises her role as Millie, who takes a job as a housekeeper for a woman she is never allowed to see. The narrative unfolds as Millie uncovers dark secrets behind a locked door that threaten to expose her own hidden past. Joining Sweeney in the sequel is Kirsten Dunst, while Michele Morrone returns as Enzo, a character from the first film. The screenplay is adapted from Freida McFadden’s bestselling novel by Rebecca Sonnenshine, who also wrote the first film's script.

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Paul Feig returns as the director, with production led by Feig through his company Pretty Dangerous Pictures, alongside Todd Lieberman from Hidden Pictures and Sweeney's Fifty-Fifty Films. Production for the sequel is set to begin later this year.

Hollywood Reporter

"The Housemaid’s Secret" will open on the same day as major films such as Marvel's "Avengers: Secret Wars" and Warner Bros.' "The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum." This strategic release aims to position the film as counter-programming during the busy Christmas corridor, similar to the original film's release strategy against "Avatar: Fire & Ash."

Deadline Hollywood

Lionsgate has expressed confidence in the sequel's potential, citing the strong audience response to the first film. Adam Fogelson, chair of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group, stated, “It’s clear from both the global box office and from the outpouring on social media that audiences have responded strongly... We are beyond excited to bring the next chapter of Millie’s story to life on-screen.”

The Wrap

While the announcement has been met with enthusiasm, some industry observers question the strategy of releasing against major franchise films, suggesting it may dilute audience interest. However, Lionsgate's approach aims to leverage the established fanbase of the original film.

Deadline Hollywood

As production for "The Housemaid’s Secret" commences, Lionsgate has plans to expand the franchise further, with intentions to adapt additional works from McFadden’s literary trilogy, including a third novel titled "The Housemaid Is Watching." This indicates a long-term commitment to developing the "Housemaid" series into a significant film franchise.

Variety Magazine

• “We believed in these stories from the very beginning, and we are beyond excited to bring the next chapter of Millie’s story to life on-screen in collaboration with our outstanding creative partners Todd, Paul, Laura, Carly, Alex and Sydney.” — Adam Fogelson, Chair, Lionsgate Motion Picture Group

The Wrap

• “If you’re eager to escape the family over the holidays with a good-looking entertainment shot through with salacious nastiness and blood-stained perversion, look no further.” — David Rooney, Chief Film Critic, The Hollywood Reporter

Hollywood Reporter