After years of speculation, “Big Little Lies” is finally being developed for a third season. While HBO has yet to issue a formal announcement, multiple outlets, including Deadline, Variety, E! News, and US Weekly have reported the new installment is moving forward.
Reports say Nicole Kidman and Reese Witherspoon will reprise their roles, while “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” co-creator Francesca Sloane will step in as showrunner, writer, and executive producer.
Here’s everything we know so far about the highly anticipated return of the Emmy-winning drama.
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Based on Liane Moriarty’s bestselling 2014 novel of the same name, the series follows five women in Monterey, California, whose seemingly perfect lives unravel after a suspicious death. Season 1 centers on the events leading up to the murder, and Season 2 introduces new tensions—especially with the arrival of the deceased’s mother, Mary Louise Wright (Meryl Streep). The story explores themes of trauma, loyalty, secrets, and the complexity of female friendships.
Sloane, co-creator and showrunner of Prime Video’s “Mr. & Mrs. Smith,” will write the first episode and lead the season under a new two-year overall deal with HBO, according to Deadline. She’ll executive produce alongside Witherspoon, Kidman, and series creator David E. Kelley.
Moriarty’s follow-up to her original novel is reportedly complete and scheduled for publication in 2026. According to Deadline, the new book features a time jump, with the women now navigating life as mothers of teenagers.
So far, only Kidman and Witherspoon are reported to be returning as Celeste Wright and Madeline Mackenzie, respectively. No additional casting has been announced, but fans are hopeful that Shailene Woodley, Zoë Kravitz, and Laura Dern will also reprise their roles.
Casting for Season 3 hasn’t started yet, but we regularly post casting calls for HBO. If you hope to land a role on “Big Little Lies,” bookmark this HBO casting roundup. Or read our guide on how to audition for HBO.
While you wait for “Big Little Lies” casting news, check out these other greenlit projects:
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And for even more industry advice and resources:
- How to Get an Acting Agent
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- What Strong Female Characters Can Teach Us About Being a Badass Onstage and Onscreen
It’s too early to announce a return date as the series is still in development. While we await further news, Seasons 1 and 2 are available on HBO Max. Check back here for casting and premiere updates.
