Katie Holmes and Joshua Jackson are set to make their long-awaited on-screen reunion in the romantic dramedy *Happy Hours*, which is scheduled for its premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival on June 6. This film marks a significant milestone as it revives the connection between the two actors who originally gained fame as beloved characters Joey and Pacey on the iconic television series *Dawson’s Creek*.
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Reflecting on their reunion, Holmes noted, “We hadn’t worked together in 25 years, and we’ve changed a lot.” The actress and director spoke to *Variety* about the evolution of their relationship since their days on the popular show. The nostalgia surrounding their reunion gained momentum in 2025 when images of the pair filming in New York City surfaced, reminding fans of the impact *Dawson’s Creek* had on their lives and careers.
Holmes expressed her surprise at the sustained affection audiences have for the characters they depicted. “To be honest, it was unexpected. I know we were on a show that a lot of people watched, but I guess we never fully realised the impact,” she stated, adding that it continues to amaze both of them. The camaraderie shared by Holmes and Jackson has endured over the years, as they have remained friends since their initial romance on-screen.
In *Happy Hours*, Holmes takes on dual roles as both writer and director, showcasing her versatility in an industry where she has made significant strides. She plays Liz, a newly divorced photographer, alongside Jackson, who portrays Andrew, a journalist with whom her character shares a complicated history. This film represents Holmes’ fourth foray into directing and highlights their shared experience of navigating life beyond their *Dawson’s Creek* personas.
Holmes revealed that Jackson was her first choice for the role of Andrew, yet there were uncertainties about whether he would be interested in collaborating again. “Is this even a potential? Is this something you’d want to do?” she recalled questioning herself. Despite their eagerness to work together, the pair wanted to ensure the project would not be mistaken for a reboot of their previous show. “We also wanted to give ourselves the space to show different sides of ourselves and to not portray these people we’re known for,” she explained.
Even after nearly three decades apart, Holmes noted that the two quickly fell back into a natural rhythm on set. Their longstanding connection allowed them to develop a unique “shorthand” that enabled them to communicate seamlessly without words. “It’s like a shorthand that we quickly realise still exists,” she remarked. “We’ve always done well working off one another. He directs me, and I direct him without us even mentioning it.”
Jackson, who attended a New York gala screening in April 2026, previously shared his thoughts on reuniting with Holmes during an interview. He described the experience as “magical,” comparing their time on *Dawson’s Creek* to formative years typically spent at university. “There are these people in your life — she’s a lifelong friend now — and for us to be able to go back and do this again, and, honestly, for her to be able to create that space for us was kind of magical,” he reflected.
As anticipation builds for the debut of *Happy Hours*, fans are eager to see how the duo navigates their characters’ evolving dynamic. With a commitment to showcasing their growth and depth as actors, this project promises to offer a fresh perspective on their longstanding collaboration.
In the larger context of the film festival, *Happy Hours* stands out not only as a reunification of two if its most recognised alumni but also as a testament to their growth as individuals and performers. The film is poised to resonate with both longtime fans of *Dawson’s Creek* and newcomers alike.
The forthcoming premiere at the Tribeca Film Festival not only marks a chapter in Holmes and Jackson’s careers but also serves as a reminder of the deep connections forged in the world of television. As the entertainment community eagerly awaits the film’s release, it seems that this reunion is just the beginning of another exciting chapter for these two beloved actors.