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Kelly's Debut Film “Housemaid’s Secret” Opens Dec 17 vs. Avengers

6/12/2026

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Summary

Kelly’s Debut

Lionsgate announced Paul Anthony Kelly’s feature debut as billionaire Douglas Garrick in “The Housemaid’s Secret,” opening December 17, 2027.
Paul Feig directs the sequel, which Rebecca Sonnenshine adapts from Freida McFadden’s second novel and which reunites Sydney Sweeney, Kirsten Dunst and Michele Morrone.
The project follows the original’s $400 million gross on a $35 million budget and will open opposite Marvel’s “Avengers: Secret Wars,” creating a competitive weekend.

Summary

Lionsgate Expands

Lionsgate announced it will adapt more Freida McFadden thrillers, turning “The Housemaid” series into a multi-film franchise.
The third novel, “The Housemaid Is Watching,” was published in June 2024, providing new source material.
Production of the sequel will be overseen by Chelsea Kujawa and Maria Ascanio.
Casting news at the 2026 Disney Upfront featured Paul Anthony Kelly with “American Horror Story” co-stars, linking the film to his upcoming 13th-season role.

History

Historical Context

In 2011 David Fincher’s adaptation of Stieg Larsson’s novel *The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo* opened in December and earned $233 million worldwide on a $90 million budget. Its strong return sparked a Hollywood trend of high-budget literary thrillers. Lionsgate is applying that model with its 2026-27 “Housemaid” franchise, aiming to replicate the earlier box-office boost.

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Kelly’s Debut

Lionsgate announced Paul Anthony Kelly’s feature debut as billionaire Douglas Garrick in “The Housemaid’s Secret,” opening December 17, 2027.
Paul Feig directs the sequel, which Rebecca Sonnenshine adapts from Freida McFadden’s second novel and which reunites Sydney Sweeney, Kirsten Dunst and Michele Morrone.
The project follows the original’s $400 million gross on a $35 million budget and will open opposite Marvel’s “Avengers: Secret Wars,” creating a competitive weekend.

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