Hollywood has a new tearjerker on its hands, and it comes in the form of Reminders of Him, the much-anticipated adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling 2022 novel. Released in theaters on March 13, 2026, the film is already generating buzz not just for its heart-wrenching storyline, but also for its impressive cast and the surprising career turns it represents for some of its stars. As fans flock to see the film, conversations are swirling about redemption, forgiveness, and the future of beloved television icons stepping into bold new roles.
At the heart of Reminders of Him is Kenna Rowan, played by Maika Monroe, a young mother struggling for a second chance after serving time for a tragic mistake. The story opens with Kenna’s release from prison, her hopes pinned on reconnecting with her five-year-old daughter, Diem, whom she gave birth to while incarcerated and has never met. The small Wyoming town of Laramie, however, is not so quick to forgive. Diem has been raised by her late boyfriend Scotty’s parents, Grace and Patrick, played by television veterans Lauren Graham and Bradley Whitford, who remain deeply resentful of Kenna for their son’s death.
Rudy Pankow, known for his breakout role in Outer Banks, takes on the part of Scotty, whose untimely death in a drunk-driving accident—caused by Kenna—serves as the film’s emotional fulcrum. Pankow’s performance, though limited to flashbacks and poignant memories, adds a crucial layer of depth, reminding viewers of the irreversible consequences of Kenna’s actions. According to ABC News, Pankow spoke about the role, saying he wanted to "bring joy" to the film, even as it explores themes of grief and atonement.
But it’s Lauren Graham who’s making headlines for her transformative turn as Grace, the protective grandmother fighting to shield Diem from her mother’s past. Known for her iconic comedic roles—most notably as Lorelai Gilmore in Gilmore Girls—Graham’s portrayal in Reminders of Him marks a significant departure. As PEOPLE reports, Graham explained at the film’s Los Angeles premiere on March 9 that she relishes opportunities to explore dramatic territory. "I am excited when considered for parts outside my usual wheelhouse," she shared, referencing both this film and her recent dramatic work in Twinless. For Graham, the shift from lighthearted banter to emotional gravitas is both challenging and creatively fulfilling.
The film’s plot is, admittedly, unabashedly melodramatic. Directed by Vanessa Caswill, with a screenplay co-adapted by Hoover and Lauren Levine, Reminders of Him leans into the emotional intensity that has made Hoover a household name among romance and drama fans. Critics, including those at The Hollywood Reporter, have noted the film’s “relentless emotional manipulation”—from rain-soaked confessions to stirring musical cues, such as a key scene set to Coldplay’s “Yellow.” Yet, even as the film tugs shamelessly at the heartstrings, it manages to avoid outright sentimentality through strong performances and a focus on the slow, difficult work of making amends.
Kenna’s journey is complicated further by her budding romance with Ledger Ward, played by Tyriq Withers. Ledger, a retired NFL player and local bar owner, offers Kenna both employment and emotional support. Unbeknownst to her, Ledger was Scotty’s best friend and now lives across the street from Diem, having formed a close bond with the child. Their relationship, fraught with secrecy and guilt, provides the film’s steamy undercurrent while also highlighting the complexities of loyalty and forgiveness. According to Universal Pictures, Withers’ performance brings a “good-hearted” charm to Ledger, making the romance both believable and moving.
The film’s supporting cast adds further texture. Country music star Lainey Wilson appears in a warm cameo as Kenna’s co-worker, while child actress Zoe Kosovic delivers a standout performance as Diem. Monika Myers, portraying Kenna’s neighbor Lady Diana, brings both comic relief and genuine heart to the proceedings, according to reviewers. The production team, led by Hoover herself, Lauren Levine, and Gina Matthews, ensures that the story’s emotional beats land with sincerity rather than schmaltz.
Behind the scenes, Reminders of Him is notable for its all-female production leadership, with Hoover not only co-writing but also producing the adaptation. This creative backbone, as highlighted by Entertainment Weekly, lends the film a “refreshing, straightforward clarity.” The result is a drama that, while replete with contrived plot elements and overt sentiment, ultimately resonates with viewers seeking catharsis and hope.
As for Lauren Graham, Reminders of Him is just one piece of a larger career evolution. While promoting the film, Graham teased fans with the possibility of a new Gilmore Girls movie, nearly two decades after the original series finale and nine years after the Netflix revival. Speaking to PEOPLE, Graham confirmed that “there is currently talk of maybe a movie in development discussions,” sparking intense speculation among die-hard fans. At the same time, she and Gilmore Girls creator Amy Sherman-Palladino are co-authoring a behind-the-scenes book, expected for release in Fall 2027. Progress on the memoir has been delayed, however, as Sherman-Palladino is currently directing a film in London. Graham remains optimistic, saying, “I have a lot of the material and Amy has a lot of the material, and then she went to direct a movie in London, and I went and did this. So it may take a minute, but I think once we really get in the groove of hanging out together and telling our stories, it’s going to flow.”
For fans of both Hoover’s novels and Gilmore Girls, the convergence of these projects marks an exciting moment. Not only does Reminders of Him offer a compelling cinematic experience, but it also signals a new chapter for Lauren Graham, who is embracing roles that challenge and expand her artistic range. As the film draws audiences into its world of regret, resilience, and redemption, it leaves them with a simple message: even the most broken stories can find their way to hope.
Sometimes, the movies that make us cry hardest are the ones we end up cherishing the most—and Reminders of Him looks poised to become one of those rare, unforgettable journeys.