In a major boost for one of Hollywood’s most anticipated book-to-screen projects, Anna Kendrick has been officially announced as the director of Netflix’s feature film adaptation of Taylor Jenkins Reid’s bestselling novel The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo.
The news, which broke on June 1, 2026, marks Kendrick’s sophomore directorial effort following the critical and commercial success of her 2023 debut, Woman of the Hour.
The project has been in development at Netflix since the streamer acquired the rights in 2022. It has seen its share of challenges, with previous directors Leslye Headland and Maggie Betts attached at different stages before departing.
Kendrick’s involvement signals fresh momentum for the high-profile adaptation, which fans have eagerly awaited since the novel’s 2017 publication.
Reid’s novel, a sweeping tale of Old Hollywood glamour, ambition, love, and secrets, has sold more than 24 million copies worldwide and been translated into dozens of languages. It centers on Evelyn Hugo, a reclusive and legendary screen icon of Cuban descent, who grants a rare interview to an unassuming young journalist named Monique Grant.
As Evelyn recounts the stories behind her seven marriages each to a different powerful or famous man , she reveals the truth about her glittering but turbulent career, her hidden bisexuality, and a profound, decades-long romance that defined her life more than any of her husbands.
The story’s blend of scandal, betrayal, female empowerment, and queer representation has made it a phenomenon, particularly on platforms like TikTok, where it has generated hundreds of millions of views. Many readers have long dreamed of seeing Evelyn’s world brought to life, fueling endless casting speculation ranging from established stars to rising talents.
Anna Kendrick as the Best Choice
Kendrick, best known for her charismatic performances in films like the Pitch Perfect series, Up in the Air, and A Simple Favor, has steadily built a reputation as a versatile talent. Her directorial debut, Woman of the Hour -a tense, true-story-inspired thriller about a serial killer appearing on The Dating Game – earned strong reviews for its sharp direction and social commentary.
Netflix acquired the project after its buzzy premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival, paying a reported eight-figure sum. The film’s success evidently convinced the streamer to partner with Kendrick again on another ambitious project.
According to sources, Netflix was particularly keen to secure Kendrick for Evelyn Hugo after reviewing several scripts. The property’s blend of emotional depth, Hollywood intrigue, and strong female perspectives aligned well with her sensibilities and the studio’s track record with prestige adaptations.
The screenplay was first drafted by Liz Tigelaar, whose credits include Little Fires Everywhere and Casual. Francesca Sloane (Mr. & Mrs. Smith, Atlanta, Fargo) is currently handling revisions.
Taylor Jenkins Reid herself is attached as an executive producer, alongside Margaret Chernin. Producing the film are Liza Chasin through 3Dot Productions, Brad Mendelsohn for Circle Management + Productions, and David Hinojosa.
This will be a feature film rather than the limited series some fans had anticipated, a shift that occurred earlier in development. While condensing the novel’s rich, multi-decade narrative into a feature-length runtime presents challenges, the creative team appears confident in delivering a compelling cinematic version that captures the book’s essence.
No casting announcements have been made yet, leaving the roles of Evelyn Hugo, Monique Grant, and the seven husbands wide open for speculation. Past rumors included interest from actresses like Jessica Chastain (who publicly distanced herself from the role years ago), but with Kendrick at the helm, fresh conversations about dream casting are already lighting up social media.
Kendrick’s dual role as a proven star and emerging director gives her unique insight into performance and storytelling. Industry observers note that her ability to balance commercial appeal with artistic integrity , demonstrated in Woman of the Hour– positions her well to tackle Evelyn Hugo’s complex themes of identity, fame, sexuality, and resilience.
For Netflix, the project fits into a strategy of adapting popular literary works with built-in audiences. Reid’s previous adaptation, the Amazon Prime series Daisy Jones & The Six, proved the appeal of her vibrant, music-and-drama-infused stories. Evelyn Hugo has the potential to become an even bigger cultural event.
As production gears up, anticipation is high. Details on filming locations, budget, or a release timeline remain under wraps, but Netflix’s Tudum site confirmed that the project is moving forward into active development with Kendrick’s attachment.
The announcement has already sparked widespread excitement among book lovers, with many praising the choice of Kendrick for her empathy, wit, and visual storytelling skills.
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo promises to be a glamorous, emotionally charged journey through Hollywood’s golden era and beyond – one that explores how women navigate power, love, and legacy in a world that often seeks to define them.
With Anna Kendrick behind the camera, the adaptation is in skilled hands poised to honor the novel’s passionate fanbase while introducing Evelyn’s unforgettable story to new audiences worldwide.
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