Lionsgate is set to broaden the horizons of its successful psychological thriller franchise with an exciting live theatre adaptation of Freida McFadden’s bestselling novel, *The Housemaid*. The announcement was made on May 19, signalling a new chapter for a story that has already captivated cinema audiences and book readers alike.
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Following its release as a feature film, which stars acclaimed actors Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried and has grossed nearly $400 million globally, *The Housemaid* has proven to be a remarkable success. The theatrical production is being spearheaded in collaboration with producers Simon Friend and Hanna Osmolska from Melting Pot, a well-known independent theatre and film company recognised for influential productions such as *Life of Pi* and *Paranormal Activity*.
Penning the script for this stage version is Bekah Brunstetter, a distinguished writer previously nominated for a Tony Award for her work on the Broadway adaptation of *The Notebook*. Her involvement promises to infuse the production with a nuanced exploration of the emotional core of McFadden’s narrative.
Originally published in 2022, the novel *The Housemaid* follows the turbulent journey of Millie, a young woman grappling with financial difficulties who accepts a position within the affluent Winchester family. As she navigates the complexities of her new surroundings, she unearths unsettling secrets that lie beneath the family’s polished exterior. This story of intrigue and drama resonated with audiences, leading to the creation of a trilogy, including sequels *The Housemaid’s Secret* in 2023 and *The Housemaid Is Watching* in 2024, which collectively have achieved widespread sales across the globe.
Jenefer Brown, Lionsgate’s President of Global Products & Experiences, expressed enthusiasm about bringing *The Housemaid* to the stage, highlighting the rich tapestry of elements that makes it suitable for theatrical adaptation. “With its blockbuster title, gripping characters, and a storyline filled with unexpected twists, the narrative inherently fits within the realm of live performance,” Brown stated. “We are thrilled to partner with Simon, Hanna, and Bekah to present this riveting story in a fresh and engaging manner to theatre audiences.”
Simon Friend echoed her sentiments, noting the theatrical essence that McFadden’s novel encapsulates. “Reading *The Housemaid* was a thrilling experience; its setting, primarily located in a confined space, along with its intricate twists, aligns beautifully with the tradition of stage thrillers,” Friend remarked. “Transforming this narrative into a live production affords us the opportunity to amplify the emotional intensity of the story in a shared audience experience.”
Brunstetter expressed her eagerness to delve into the story’s deep and relatable themes. “I am beyond excited to take this gripping and emotionally charged narrative to the stage,” she said. “Exploring the universal concepts of jealousy, the struggles of desire, and the traumas that connect us all feels particularly relevant.”
This latest development is part of a broader strategy by Lionsgate to expand *The Housemaid* franchise. The studio has revealed plans for a sequel film, *The Housemaid’s Secret*, which is anticipated to begin production later this year, with a theatrical release on the horizon for December 17, 2027.
In recent years, Lionsgate has increasingly ventured into the realm of live entertainment, with other properties also making their way to the stage. The studio recently premiered *The Hunger Games: On Stage* in London and has initiated preparations for a North American tour of *Dirty Dancing*, set to launch in August. Furthermore, a musical adaptation of the Academy Award-winning film *La La Land* is also reportedly in development, helmed by producer Marc Platt.
Melting Pot, the production company behind the *The Housemaid* stage adaptation, boasts an impressive portfolio that spans both theatre and cinema. Its credits include productions such as *Ghost Stories*, *The Girl on the Train*, and *Inspector Morse: House of Ghosts*. Simon Friend, the producer, has also been instrumental in the success of films like *The Father*, which earned accolades for stars Anthony Hopkins and Olivia Colman.
As *The Housemaid* prepares to transition from page and screen to the theatrical stage, a new audience will soon have the chance to experience this gripping tale. With its current momentum, the expectations for both the stage adaptation and upcoming film sequel are incredibly high.