Reese Witherspoon has confirmed that the third season of HBO's Big Little Lies is actively moving forward, providing the clearest update yet on the long-awaited return of the acclaimed series. Appearing on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, the star and executive producer said the project is "in process," reassuring fans that development is progressing after years of speculation and occasional hints from cast members.
Source Material for Season Three
Unlike the second season, which was created without a direct literary follow-up, the upcoming installment will be based on Big Little Truths, a new novel by author Liane Moriarty. The book, scheduled for release on August 25, marks Moriarty's first sequel and revisits the residents of Monterey more than a decade after the events of the original story. According to the book's synopsis, the story follows Madeline, Celeste, Jane, Renata, and Bonnie as they navigate life with older children who are now teenagers or young adults. Mysterious developments begin to affect the community, including a stranger lingering near the school and a disturbing package sent to the principal. The women are also forced to confront the consequences of secrets and truths shared over the years.
Cast and Creative Team Reunite
The original novel was adapted into HBO's award-winning drama in 2017, starring Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman, Laura Dern, Zoë Kravitz, and Shailene Woodley. Its second season concluded in July 2019 and featured the addition of Meryl Streep. Momentum for season three has increased in recent months. Series creator David E. Kelley recently said the team was "getting the band back together," although he declined to reveal specific details. Shailene Woodley has also expressed enthusiasm about returning. Speaking earlier this month, the actress said she was excited by the prospect of exploring the characters a decade later and reuniting with her co-stars.
Progress and Anticipation
Witherspoon's latest comments offer the strongest indication yet that fans may eventually return to Monterey. By using Big Little Truths as its foundation, the next season aims to continue the story of the beloved characters while introducing a new stage in their lives. The success of Big Little Lies turned the series into one of HBO's most celebrated dramas, and anticipation for its return has remained strong despite the lengthy gap between seasons. With a new novel arriving this year and the creative team once again assembling, season three appears to be steadily moving closer to becoming a reality.
