You've probably seen the TikToks. Or maybe you're one of the millions who devoured Freida McFadden’s twisty thriller in a single sitting. Either way, the question of when does the housemaid movie come out has been a massive point of confusion lately. Let's clear the air: the movie actually already hit theaters on December 19, 2025.
If you're looking for it right now in early 2026, you haven't missed the boat entirely. It’s still playing in many cinemas, though it’s starting to move toward its digital and streaming phase. This wasn't some quiet indie release, either. Lionsgate went all in, and the box office numbers are honestly kind of wild for an R-rated psychological thriller.
The Big Release Date Confusion
Most people asking about the release date are actually seeing news about the sequel. Because the first film was such a massive hit—raking in over $133 million globally in its first few weeks—Lionsgate officially greenlit the follow-up, The Housemaid's Secret, on January 6, 2026.
So, if you're seeing "2026" attached to the title, that's likely the production start date for the second movie. It’s easy to get the two mixed up when the internet is moving at 100 mph.
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The first film, directed by Paul Feig, stayed pretty true to the source material but added a level of "campy" energy that fans didn't quite expect. It’s got that A Simple Favor vibe—glossy, dangerous, and a little bit wicked.
Who Is In the Cast?
The star power here is legit. Sydney Sweeney plays Millie Calloway, the girl with a record just trying to catch a break. She nails that "is she a victim or a villain?" energy perfectly. Opposite her is Amanda Seyfried as Nina Winchester. Honestly, Seyfried is the standout here. She plays Nina with this twitchy, unpredictable edge that keeps you guessing until the final frame.
The rest of the cast includes:
- Brandon Sklenar as Andrew Winchester (the husband who isn't what he seems).
- Michele Morrone as Enzo (the landscaper with the secrets).
- Elizabeth Perkins in a supporting role that adds some serious gravity.
What Really Happened With the Adaptation
Adapting a "BookTok" sensation is risky. Readers have very specific voices in their heads for these characters. But Paul Feig and screenwriter Rebecca Sonnenshine seem to have pulled it off by leaning into the erotic thriller elements of the 90s while keeping the modern twists McFadden is famous for.
The story follows Millie, who is living in her car before landing a job as a live-in maid for the wealthy Winchesters. She gets a room in the attic that locks from the outside. Red flag? Huge. But she needs the job. As she gets closer to Andrew, she realizes Nina might be "crazy"—or Nina might be the only one telling the truth.
One thing the movie does differently than the book is the ending. No spoilers, but let’s just say it leaves the door wide open for Millie’s next "assignment," which is exactly why the sequel got the thumbs up so fast.
When Can You Stream It?
Since the theatrical window is still active, an official streaming date for The Housemaid hasn't been set in stone yet. However, Lionsgate has deals with Starz and Peacock. Usually, we see these types of hits land on digital platforms (like Apple TV and Amazon) about 45 to 60 days after the theatrical release.
Expect to be able to rent or buy the movie digitally by late February 2026, with a streaming debut on Starz likely following a few months later.
What’s Next for the Franchise?
If you've already seen the movie and you're actually wondering when does the housemaid movie come out regarding the sequel, here is the deal. Production on The Housemaid's Secret starts later this year (2026).
Sydney Sweeney is already signed on to return as Millie. Interestingly, Amanda Seyfried’s character doesn't appear in the second book, but she’s already told reporters she wants to do a cameo. "I guarantee I'll be in it," she told Variety recently. It sounds like they might find a way to keep her involved, even if the plot moves to a new house with a new family.
Actionable Next Steps
- Check Local Listings: If you want the full "scream at the screen" experience with a crowd, check your local AMC or Regal now. It’s likely in its final weeks of a wide theatrical run.
- Read the Trilogy: If you can't wait for the sequel film, The Housemaid's Secret and The Housemaid Is Watching are already out in bookstores.
- Watch the Trailer: If you're still on the fence, the official Lionsgate trailer gives a great look at the chemistry between Sweeney and Seyfried without giving away the biggest third-act twist.
- Set a Digital Alert: Keep an eye on the PlayStation or Apple TV store around mid-February to catch the "Home Premiere" release.
The "Housemaid-verse" is officially a thing now. Whether you're here for the mystery or just to see Sydney Sweeney play a badass, there’s plenty more coming.