Julia Butters, the young actress who gained widespread recognition for her roles in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood and The Fabelmans, is reportedly in discussions to join the cast of Disney’s highly anticipated Freaky Friday sequel. The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed that the studio is moving forward with the project, which has been a topic of speculation and hope among fans for years.
Disney first announced its plans for the sequel last year, and in March, it was revealed that Nisha Ganatra, known for her work on Welcome to Chippendales, would be directing the film. This news has generated significant excitement, especially among those who fondly remember the 2003 version of Freaky Friday, which starred Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan.
While Disney has not officially confirmed the return of Curtis and Lohan, sources indicate that both actresses are in talks to reprise their iconic roles. The studio has remained tight-lipped about the casting process, including the potential involvement of Julia Butters. However, the prospect of Butters joining the cast has already sparked considerable interest.
Andrew Gunn, who produced the 2003 film, is set to produce the sequel alongside former Disney executive Kristin Burr. The original movie, directed by Mark Waters and based on a script by Heather Hach and Leslie Dixon, was itself a remake of the 1976 film starring Barbara Harris and Jodie Foster. The story, which revolves around a mother and daughter who magically swap bodies, has become a beloved classic over the years.
Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan have both expressed their enthusiasm for a sequel on multiple occasions. In a 2023 interview with the New York Times, Lohan stated, “We would only make something that people would absolutely adore.” Their excitement was further evident when they celebrated the news of Ganatra’s hiring with a joint Instagram post in March.
The 2003 Freaky Friday film was a commercial success, grossing $160.8 million worldwide and receiving positive reviews from critics. It has since achieved cult classic status, making the prospect of a sequel all the more enticing for fans. The original film followed the story of Tess Coleman, a single mother and psychiatrist played by Curtis, and her rebellious teenage daughter Anna, portrayed by Lohan. After a mysterious fortune cookie incident at a Chinese restaurant, the two find themselves living each other’s lives for a day, leading to a series of comedic and heartfelt moments.
The new film’s plot details remain under wraps, and it is unclear whether the sequel will be released in theaters or on a streaming platform. Jordan Weiss has penned the script, and with the original’s Andrew Gunn returning as a producer, fans are hopeful that the sequel will capture the same magic as its predecessor.
Julia Butters, who is represented by UTA, has been making waves in Hollywood with her impressive performances. Her potential involvement in the Freaky Friday sequel adds another layer of excitement to the project. Butters’ other notable credits include The Gray Man and I Think You Should Leave, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
The news of Butters’ potential casting was first reported by The InSneider, and while Disney and representatives for Butters have not commented, the buzz surrounding the project continues to grow. Fans are eagerly awaiting more information about the sequel, including official casting announcements and plot details.
For years, Curtis and Lohan have been vocal about their desire to reunite for a follow-up to their beloved body-swapping comedy. In March, Curtis shared a photo with Lohan on Instagram, tagging Disney and captioning the snap, “DUH! FFDEUX!” This playful post further fueled speculation and excitement among fans.
The original Freaky Friday film, based on the children’s book by Mary Rodgers, has left a lasting impact on audiences. The story’s themes of empathy, understanding, and the bond between mother and daughter resonate with viewers of all ages. As the sequel moves forward, fans are hopeful that it will continue to explore these themes while introducing new elements to the beloved story.
As the project develops, all eyes are on Disney to see how they will bring this long-awaited sequel to life. With a talented director like Nisha Ganatra at the helm and the potential return of Curtis and Lohan, the Freaky Friday sequel promises to be a nostalgic yet fresh take on a classic tale. And with Julia Butters potentially joining the cast, the film is poised to capture the hearts of a new generation of fans.
