A follow-up to the hit movie The Housemaid is officially moving forward. The thriller, which became a major box office success over the holidays, will get a sequel titled The Housemaid’s Secret. The core team from the first film is set to return, with star Sydney Sweeney and director Paul Feig coming back for the next chapter based on Freida McFadden’s popular book series.
The decision follows the strong performance of the first film. Since its release on December 19, 2025, The Housemaid has earned $133 million at the global box office against a production budget reported to be $35 million. This financial success prompted Lionsgate to fast-track development on the sequel, which has been in the works for several months.
Who Is Returning for the Sequel?
The studio plans to bring back the key creative forces behind the first film. Sydney Sweeney is expected to reprise her leading role as Millie Calloway and will also serve as an executive producer. Director Paul Feig is set to return to direct and produce through his company, Pretty Dangerous Pictures.
Screenwriter Rebecca Sonnenshine, who adapted the first novel, will return to write the screenplay for The Housemaid’s Secret. Fellow cast member Michele Morrone is also in talks to return as Enzo, the groundskeeper who became Millie’s ally.
“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,” said Adam Fogelson, Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Chair.
The producing team from Hidden Pictures, including Todd Lieberman, Carly Elter, and Alex Young, will also return. Author Freida McFadden will serve as an executive producer.
The Story Continues with a New Mystery
The Housemaid’s Secret is based directly on the second novel in Freida McFadden’s bestselling trilogy. The story continues the journey of Sweeney’s character, Millie, as she takes a new job working for a different wealthy family.
The first film ended with Millie interviewing for her next position, clearly ready to move on from the dangerous events at the Winchester home. The sequel will explore a fresh but similarly twisted household where, once again, things are not what they seem. This new setting means characters from the first film, like Amanda Seyfried’s Nina Winchester and Brandon Skelnar’s Andrew Winchester, may not have central roles, as their story arcs were largely completed. However, Seyfried herself has expressed interest in making a cameo appearance.
Behind the Box Office Success
The swift move to develop a sequel is a direct result of the first film’s unexpected performance. Opening against major blockbusters, The Housemaid secured a strong $19 million in its domestic opening weekend. It has since grossed $75.7 million in North America and $133 million worldwide.
The film’s R-rated mix of psychological tension and thriller elements connected with audiences, providing successful counterprogramming during the crowded holiday season. Its profitability from a moderate budget made the sequel an easy decision for the studio.
“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,” said director Paul Feig. “We’re lucky that Freida McFadden has already extended Millie’s journey on the page”.
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Production Timeline and What Comes Next
Lionsgate is targeting the start of production for later in 2026. While an official release date has not been announced, a 2027 theatrical release seems likely given the planned production schedule.
Casting for the new wealthy family at the center of The Housemaid’s Secret will be a key next step for the production team. The studio will also be looking to capitalize on the built-in fan base for McFadden’s books, which have sold over 12 million copies globally and have been translated into 40 languages.
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