Lionsgate has announced a sequel to the box office hit ‘The Housemaid,’ titled ‘The Housemaid’s Secret,’ following the film’s successful theatrical run that grossed over $133 million worldwide in just over two weeks. The sequel will see the return of star Sydney Sweeney and director Paul Feig, based on the second book in Freida McFadden’s bestselling trilogy.
On January 6, 2026, Lionsgate officially greenlit ‘The Housemaid’s Secret,’ with production set to begin later this year. The studio made the announcement after the original film’s impressive box office performance during the holiday season, signaling confidence in the franchise’s potential.
‘The Housemaid,’ a psychological thriller starring Sydney Sweeney, opened in mid-December 2025 and quickly became a commercial success. With a modest budget of $35 million, it earned $75.7 million domestically and $133 million globally in its first 17 days, making it one of the surprise hits of the year and a much-needed win for Lionsgate.
Director Paul Feig and star Sydney Sweeney are confirmed to return for the sequel, with Sweeney also serving as an executive producer. Screenwriter Rebecca Sonnenshine will adapt the second novel, ensuring continuity in the storytelling. Other cast members, including Michele Morrone, are expected to reprise their roles, adding to the anticipation.
The sequel is based on ‘The Housemaid’s Secret,’ the second installment in Freida McFadden’s trilogy, which has sold over 12 million copies worldwide. The books have been translated into 40 languages and have topped bestseller lists, providing a strong foundation for the film adaptation and a built-in audience.
Adam Fogelson, Lionsgate’s motion picture group chair, emphasized the audience’s strong response, stating that the global box office and social media buzz indicated a desire for more. He praised the creative partners and expressed excitement about bringing the next chapter to life, highlighting the collaborative effort behind the project.
With development already underway, Lionsgate aims to start shooting in 2026, targeting a release in the coming years. The studio’s quick move to capitalize on the first film’s success demonstrates a strategic approach to franchise building in the competitive film industry.
This announcement comes as a boost for Sydney Sweeney, whose previous film ‘Christy’ underperformed, and for Lionsgate, which has found a profitable niche with thriller adaptations. The sequel’s greenlight reflects the growing trend of leveraging popular literary properties for cinematic success, with potential for further installments.
As ‘The Housemaid’s Secret’ moves forward, fans can look forward to more twists and turns in Millie’s story, with the promise of maintaining the suspense and drama that made the first film a hit. The project underscores the power of audience engagement in driving studio decisions and sets the stage for a new franchise in the making.
