Paul Anthony Kelly is set to make his feature film debut in Lionsgate's upcoming thriller The Housemaid's Secret, joining a high-profile cast led by Sydney Sweeney and Kirsten Dunst, according to Deadline. The actor, who recently gained attention for his breakout performance as John F. Kennedy Jr. in FX's Love Story, has officially signed on for the sequel to Lionsgate's hit film The Housemaid. The original movie, based on Freida McFadden's bestselling novel, became a major box office success and quickly earned a follow-up greenlight.
Plot and Character Details
In The Housemaid's Secret, Kelly will play Douglas Garrick, a billionaire husband married to Dunst's character, Wendy. The story follows Millie, played by Sweeney, who takes on another live-in housekeeping job that appears normal on the surface but soon reveals disturbing hidden truths. The sequel continues under the direction of Paul Feig, with a screenplay by Rebecca Sonnenshine, adapting McFadden's second novel in the viral thriller series.
Production Team and Release
Producers include Todd Lieberman of Hidden Pictures, along with Feig and Laura Fischer under Pretty Dangerous Pictures, and Sweeney through her Honey Trap banner. Returning cast member Michele Morrone will reprise his role as Enzo, Millie's ally-turned-love interest. The film is currently scheduled for a wide theatrical release on December 17, 2027.
Franchise Success
The Housemaid franchise has become a global publishing phenomenon, with over 12 million copies sold and translations into more than 40 languages. Its sequel novel, The Housemaid's Secret, spent more than 70 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list and won the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Thriller in 2023. Kelly's casting further builds on his rising profile in Hollywood, with industry buzz surrounding his recent work and additional upcoming projects.
