Updates on the Potential Sequel for ‘Sweet Home Alabama’ Cast

Everything the Sweet Home Alabama Cast Has Said About a Potential Sequel 364

Nathan Lee Graham, Reese Witherspoon, and Rhona Mitra. Cover Images

The cast of Sweet Home Alabama has been talking about the possibility of a sequel to the popular 2002 movie.

This romantic comedy, which features Reese Witherspoon, Josh Lucas, and Patrick Dempsey, was a hit at the box office when it was first released. Even now, more than 20 years later, it still has a special place in the hearts of fans.

The movie tells the story of Melanie Smooter (played by Witherspoon), a successful fashion designer living in New York City. She changed her last name to "Carmichael" to hide her humble Southern upbringing. When wealthy politician Andrew Hennings (Dempsey) proposes to her, Melanie returns to her hometown in Alabama to finalize her divorce from Jake Perry (Lucas), her childhood sweetheart.

Melanie rediscovers her heritage when Andrew learns about her true history, leading her back to Jake.

The movie features not only the main actors, but also includes Dakota Fanning as a young Melanie, along with Fred Ward, Mary Kay Place, Jean Smart, Candice Bergen, Ethan Embry and Melanie Lynskey in supporting roles.

Keep reading to see what the cast has said about a potential sequel.

Reese Witherspoon

Everything the Sweet Home Alabama Cast Has Said About a Potential Sequel 366

Cover Images

In 2022, Reese Witherspoon responded to the possibility of a sequel during an interview on Today with Hoda Kotb.

"I hope so, I think it would be a fantastic idea," Witherspoon expressed her enthusiasm. Co-host Jenna Bush Hager followed up by asking if the actress would be interested in starring in the rumored film.

Witherspoon expressed uncertainty at first, saying "Maybe. I don’t know. That sounds fun. Do you guys want me to do that?" But after receiving positive reactions from the hosts, she joked, "OK, I’ll make some calls."

Prior to that, Witherspoon had already confirmed that she would "happily" remake the iconic movie.

Josh Lucas

During a Facebook Live chat in August 2016, she expressed her love for "Sweet Home Alabama." Despite no plans for a sequel, she mentioned that she would be thrilled to make a "Sweet Home Alabama 2" if Disney reaches out to her.

During a July 2023 interview on SiriusXM’s Pop Culture Spotlight With Jessica Shaw, Lucas expressed his interest in doing a sequel. He mentioned how Reese is seen as a mogul in the industry, with people suggesting to talk to her about projects even five years in the future.

Reflecting on his time working with her on Sweet Home Alabama, Lucas remembered predicting that Reese would one day run a movie studio. He acknowledged her current status as someone who has surpassed that expectation, describing her as extraordinary and not at all surprising in her success.

Andy Tennant

In 2022, Andy Tennant, the director of Sweet Home Alabama, shared his idea for a sequel. He mentioned that the sequel would involve Reese's character and Melanie Lynskey's character taking their kids on a college tour during an interview with Business Insider.

Reese's daughter, Ava, went to school with my son, so I would see Reese on occasion. When the movie got to about 13 to 14 years later, I started wondering where they would all be. I was curious about the current status of the four characters: Melanie, Jake, Andrew, and Melanie Lynskey's character, Lurlynn. My kids were in college at the time, so I began thinking about a new generation of kids experiencing school and young love, and how that would affect parents witnessing their children growing up. I also pondered what Melanie's daughter might be like if she takes after her mother.

However, Tennant revealed that Witherspoon likely hasn't read his script. He mentioned, "Even Reese's lawyer enjoyed the treatment, but that's as far as I got."

Dakota Fanning

In 2021, the actress sparked rumors of a sequel when she left a comment on Witherspoon's Instagram post. Witherspoon had shared a picture from Sweet Home Alabama with the question, "Do you remember what she said?"

Fanning shared, "The truth is I gave my heart away a long time ago, my whole heart, and I never really got it back."

Witherspoon made fans swoon with her response, "Love you, little Melanie."

Editor's P/S:

The potential sequel to the beloved romantic comedy "Sweet Home Alabama" has sparked excitement among fans. Reese Witherspoon, the lead actress, has expressed her enthusiasm for the project, while Josh Lucas, who played her love interest, has also indicated his interest in reprising his role. Director Andy Tennant has even shared his idea for a sequel, which would involve the characters' children. However, it remains unclear whether Witherspoon has read Tennant's script or if the project has officially been greenlit. Despite the uncertainty, the buzz surrounding a potential sequel has left fans eagerly anticipating its possible realization.

The original film, released in 2002, holds a special place in the hearts of many due to its relatable characters, heartwarming story, and memorable performances. A sequel would not only revisit these beloved characters but also explore new themes and storylines, potentially delving into the complexities of parenthood, love, and the passage of time. The cast's enthusiasm for the project and the director's creative vision suggest that a sequel could be a worthy successor to the original film, offering fans a nostalgic and emotionally resonant experience.