Jamie Lee Curtis to Lead 'Murder, She Wrote' Film Reboot in 2027
Academy Award-winning actress Jamie Lee Curtis is set to bring a beloved television classic back to the big screen. The star, known for her roles in horror films like 'Halloween' and the multiverse adventure 'Everything Everywhere All at Once,' will take on the iconic role of Jessica Fletcher in a new 'Murder, She Wrote' movie. This revival, announced in a recent Guardian report, is scheduled for release on December 22, 2027, by Universal Pictures.
Blending Classic Mystery with Modern Intensity
The film aims to merge the cozy whodunit charm of the original series with Curtis's signature dramatic intensity. Fans of the show, which aired for 12 seasons from 1984 to 1996 and included several TV movies, have long awaited such an update amidst Hollywood's trend of reboots. At 67, Curtis steps into the shoes previously filled by the late Angela Lansbury, who passed away in 2022 at the age of 96.
Casting and Creative Team Details
Curtis will portray Jessica Fletcher, the sharp-witted mystery novelist and amateur detective from Cabot Cove, Maine. The project is directed by Jason Moore, whose background in musical films like 'Pitch Perfect' offers an intriguing contrast to the mystery genre. The screenplay is penned by Lauren Schuker Blum and Rebecca Angelo, the writing duo behind the adaptation of 'The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo.'
Producers include Amy Pascal, Phil Lord, and Chris Miller, ensuring a high level of production quality. While specific plot details remain confidential, speculation suggests the film may either revisit the quaint setting of Cabot Cove or explore global mysteries akin to the series' later episodes.
Excitement and Updates from the Team
Curtis first hinted at the project during discussions about 'Dumb Money' at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival. Schuker Blum later confirmed to Collider, "I'll tell you one thing that hasn't been reported yet, is we've written a film version of Murder, She Wrote for Universal, and we're really excited." Angelo added, "It's Jessica Fletcher's time to return."
At the premiere of 'Freakier Friday,' Curtis expressed her enthusiasm to Entertainment Tonight, stating, "Oh it's... happening. We're just a minute away. But very excited. Very excited." She tempered this slightly, noting, "However, I'm tempering my excitement until we begin filming. I have a few other projects to focus on first, but then I'll relish this work." Later updates reinforced her thrill, with Curtis saying, "It's definitely happening... I'm extremely thrilled. Really thrilled."
Honoring a Legacy with a Fresh Approach
This reboot is designed to honor Lansbury's legacy without directly imitating her performance. Curtis, fresh off her role in 'Freaky Friday 2,' brings her own dramatic range to the character, promising a unique take on the beloved detective. The film represents a significant moment for fans of the series and newcomers alike, blending nostalgia with contemporary storytelling.
