Sydney Sweeney's psychological thriller The Housemaid is set to get an ambitious sequel, with major updates on budget, setting, and cast.
Why it matters: The sequel to The Housemaid reflects Lionsgate's confidence in the franchise potential of the property, following the original film's massive success.
The Housemaid sequel, titled The Housemaid's Secret, will have a budget ranging from $70 million to $80 million, nearly double the original's $35 million budget.
The first film grossed over $398 million worldwide, cementing its status as a box office hit.
The sequel aims to expand its narrative scope significantly, moving beyond the original's confined domestic setting.
Driving the news: Lionsgate is moving quickly to capitalize on the success of The Housemaid, which premiered in theaters on December 19, 2025, and hit digital platforms on February 3, 2026.
The Housemaid has spent 100 consecutive days in the Top 10 charts on digital platforms like Amazon and Apple TV, becoming the No. 1 film on Apple globally.
It has also achieved a 73% Certified Fresh score from critics and an impressive 92% audience approval rating.
The sequel is expected to begin filming by the end of 2026, with a theatrical release scheduled for December 17, 2027.
State of play: The Housemaid's Secret will adapt Freida McFadden's second novel in the series, which has already captivated readers.
The sequel will feature expanded locations, including a New York penthouse and an upstate residence, promising a broader narrative.
Sweeney will reprise her role as Millie Calloway, alongside Michele Morrone, who will have a significantly larger part in the sequel.
Kirsten Dunst is also confirmed to join the cast, enhancing the film's star power.
The big picture: The Housemaid's success highlights a growing trend in the film industry where psychological thrillers are gaining traction and audience interest.
With its combination of suspense, drama, and strong performances, The Housemaid has positioned itself as a standout in its genre.
As Sweeney continues to rise as one of Hollywood's most bankable stars, Lionsgate's investment in the sequel reflects their belief in her drawing power.
The ambitious budget for The Housemaid's Secret indicates a shift in how studios view psychological thrillers, traditionally seen as lower-budget projects.
What they're saying: Lionsgate's President of International, Helen Lee-Kim, expressed excitement about the sequel's potential.
Lee-Kim stated, "It’s an expansion of the world from the first film. The second book is even twistier and it’ll be a more unexpected movie."
She emphasized that the creative team from the first film will return, ensuring continuity in storytelling and vision.
Industry experts believe that the sequel's increased budget and expanded scope could set a new standard for future films in the genre.
By the numbers: The financial success of The Housemaid has set high expectations for its sequel.
The first film was made on a budget of $35 million and grossed approximately $398.2 million worldwide.
With a budget of $70–80 million, The Housemaid's Secret will be one of the more expensive psychological thrillers produced.
The film's digital success includes being the top film on Apple TV and second on Amazon's global digital charts.
What's next: As production gears up, fans are eager to see how the sequel will develop the story of Millie Calloway.
With filming expected to commence by the end of 2026, the anticipation for The Housemaid's Secret is building rapidly.
As casting continues, Lionsgate is looking for two additional male roles to complement the returning cast.
The sequel's release on December 17, 2027, is already generating buzz within the entertainment community, positioning it as a must-see event.