Universal Pictures has confirmed that Maika Monroe will play the lead role in the highly anticipated film adaptation of Colleen Hoover's bestselling novel, Reminders of Him. The news was officially announced on March 18, 2025, and fans are already buzzing with excitement as the film is set to hit theaters on February 13, 2026.
In this emotionally charged drama, Monroe will portray Kenna Rowan, a young mother striving to reconnect with her 4-year-old daughter after spending five years in prison for a tragic accident. The film follows Kenna as she returns to her hometown, facing both personal and social challenges as she attempts to rebuild her life and reunite with her daughter.
Kenna's journey is complicated by the resistance she encounters from the community she once knew. The dynamics of her return are further heightened as she forms an unexpected bond with Ledger Ward, a local bar owner who becomes an unlikely ally in her quest for redemption. This relationship threatens to unravel the fragile trust of those around her, forcing Kenna to confront her past to carve out a future.
Directed by Vanessa Caswill, Reminders of Him appears to blend heartfelt storytelling with intense drama. Colleen Hoover is actively involved with the project, collaborating with Lauren Levine to write the screenplay. Both Hoover and Levine are producing the film through their company, Heartbones Entertainment. Additionally, Gina Matthews is set to produce through Little Engine Productions, with Robin Fisichella as the executive producer.
Colleen Hoover's foray into cinematic adaptations is gaining traction, with multiple projects currently in development. Alongside Reminders of Him, an adaptation of her novel Regretting You is already in the works, slated for release on October 24, 2025. This particular project is being helmed by director Josh Boone and features a notable cast including Scott Eastwood, Allison Williams, Mckenna Grace, and Dave Franco. The film explores the challenging relationship between a mother, Morgan Grant, and her teenage daughter, Clara, addressing themes of love and loss.
Moreover, another upcoming adaptation, Verity, is set for release in February 2026 and will star Anne Hathaway, Dakota Johnson, and Josh Hartnett. Directed by Michael Showalter, the film follows a struggling writer, Lowen Ashleigh, who discovers shocking secrets about the author she is assisting, creating a thrilling narrative full of suspense.
Hoover's ability to weave complex emotional narratives resonates strongly with audiences, and her transition to film appears to be well-received. "I just read the script. I’m super excited about it," Hoover expressed on an episode of Watch What Happens Live. Her enthusiasm hints at her confidence in how these adaptations will translate her compelling characters and intricate plots onto the screen.
Hoover's previous adaptation, It Ends With Us, launched her cinematic journey, garnering attention for the sensitive way it portrayed difficult subjects. While the sequel to It Ends With Us, titled It Starts With Us, was published in 2022, there are uncertainties surrounding the cast's return for future movies due to ongoing legal issues between lead actors Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni.
The success of adaptations like Regretting You and Verity can pave the way for more of Hoover's works to be adapted for the screen. With a growing fanbase eager for rich, character-driven stories, her novels are likely to remain in demand. It is clear that as Hollywood continues to look for engaging narratives, Hoover's works are likely to remain at the forefront.
As for Monroe, this role adds to her impressive portfolio. Known for her performances in films like It Follows and The Guest, she is poised to bring depth to Kenna Rowan. With her skill in portraying complex characters, Monroe is expected to deliver a heartfelt performance that captures Kenna's struggles and triumphs.
The adaptation of Reminders of Him is positioned as a significant entry in Universal Pictures' catalog, showcasing a contemporary narrative that balances elements of romance and psychological depth. With a release date already locked in, fans of the novel and new audiences alike are eager to see how this film will unfold and whether it can live up to the emotional weight of Hoover's original storytelling.
In conclusion, as the release of Reminders of Him approaches, the excitement surrounding this adaptation is palpable. With a strong production team, an empathetic lead, and a compelling narrative driving it, this film is set to capture the hearts of many viewers. Expect this to be just one of many stories from Colleen Hoover that will make its way from page to screen, marking a notable shift in the landscape of book adaptations in the years to come.
