Paramount Pictures has initiated early development on a sequel to the 2003 romantic comedy How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, with original star Kate Hudson attached to produce alongside Stacey Sher. The studio and filmmakers are aiming to bring back original leads Hudson and Matthew McConaughey to reprise their respective roles as magazine writer Andie Anderson and advertising executive Benjamin Barry.
Production and Creative Status
The project is currently in its initial stages at the studio, operating without a completed script, a finalized logline, or confirmed cast attachments beyond Hudson's production role. Producers are actively seeking a screenwriter to develop the narrative framework for the follow-up. Sher is co-producing the feature through her Shiny Penny production banner.
Financial Context of the Original
The original 2003 film, directed by Donald Petrie and based on Michele Alexander and Jeannie Long's illustrated book, proved to be a significant commercial success for Paramount. The picture grossed over $178 million worldwide against its production budget, establishing enduring cultural recognition for its central pairing and specific set pieces, including the yellow dress worn by Hudson's character.
Because the project is in the nascent stages of assembly, no production schedule, targeted release window, or plot details have been established. Subsequent movement on the film depends on securing a writer and formalizing cast agreements with both Hudson and McConaughey.
While the studio's primary ambition is to reunite the original cinematic couple, industry observers note that aligning the busy schedules of both high-profile actors will be a critical hurdle for the production team. McConaughey’s recent career focus on dramatic roles and independent features, alongside Hudson's diverse slate of streaming and theatrical projects, means that pre-production timelines could stretch longer than standard studio turnarounds.
The decision to revisit the property reflects a broader industry trend toward mining late-90s and early-2000s romantic comedies for nostalgic appeal. As studios increasingly rely on established intellectual property to mitigate box office risks, classic rom-coms with proven global footprints are emerging as prime candidates for modern revivals. Whether the sequel can recapture the specific comedic chemistry and fast-paced banter of the original without repeating its narrative beats will largely depend on the creative voice brought in to pen the screenplay.
Furthermore, the enduring popularity of the original film across streaming platforms and cable syndication over the past two decades has demonstrated a persistent demand for character-driven romantic comedies. This sustained cultural footprint gives Paramount a strong foundation of built-in audiences who still fondly recall the playful bets, escalating deceptions, and ultimate romantic payoff that defined the dynamic between Andie and Ben.
