Freida McFadden on Why Sydney Sweeney Was Ideal for 'The Housemaid'

At the 2026 TIME100 Gala in New York City on Thursday night, Freida McFadden opened up about her leading lady. The 45-year-old author, whose 2022 novel served as the source material for Paul Feig's film adaptation, spoke glowingly about Sydney Sweeney's casting.

During a red carpet appearance, McFadden told Us Weekly that the 28-year-old Emmy-nominated actress embodied her vision for the character from the moment she penned the original story. "She has the right vibe," McFadden explained. "She has this great energy and passion."

In the film, Sweeney portrays Millie, a young woman navigating a troubled past who takes on a live-in maid position with a wealthy household harboring sinister mysteries. The cast also includes Amanda Seyfried and Brandon Sklenar.

The franchise is expanding: Kirsten Dunst was announced in March to join Sweeney in the upcoming sequel, The Housemaid's Secret. McFadden expressed enthusiasm about the project, noting her long-standing admiration for Dunst's work.

"I think it's gonna have completely new twists, completely new family, and I think it's gonna surprise people," McFadden said of the follow-up. Feig will helm the sequel, though an official release date has not yet been set.