Sequel to ‘Family Stone’ Planned Following Diane Keaton’s Passing
The Stone family is bracing for a reunion as a sequel to the beloved film “The Family Stone” is in development. Thomas Bezucha, who penned and directed the 2005 hit, is actively working on bringing this project to life.
Homage to Diane Keaton
Bezucha shared with CNN that the idea for a sequel was already in his mind before the passing of Diane Keaton. Keaton, who portrayed the character Sybil, passed away in October 2023 at the age of 79. Her character, the matriarch of the Stone family, succumbed to a terminal illness at the end of the original film.
Reflecting on Keaton’s influence, Bezucha mentioned, “I’ve been haunted by the loss of Sybil for months now.” He expressed a desire to honor Keaton and ensure that the follow-up respects the legacy of both her character and the original cast.
Original Cast and Fan Favorites
The sequel aims to capture the essence of the original film, which has become a perennial favorite during the holiday season. “The Family Stone” showcases a culture clash as Sybil’s son brings his girlfriend home for the holidays, interacting with their unconventional family.
- Sarah Jessica Parker
- Dermot Mulroney
- Luke Wilson
- Rachel McAdams
- Claire Danes
- Craig T. Nelson
While the original film’s cast included these popular stars, it’s still uncertain who will reprise their roles in the sequel. Bezucha indicated that no one has officially signed on for the project, and it has yet to receive formal approval from Disney, which acquired 20th Century Fox—the original distributor—in 2019.
Bezucha’s Vision for the Sequel
Bezucha emphasized the importance of returning to the original ensemble. He stated, “I’m not interested in the Brady family reunion without the original Jan,” highlighting his commitment to preserving the integrity and spirit of the first film.
As fans await further details, the anticipation for a sequel to “The Family Stone” continues to grow, especially in light of the poignant memories of Diane Keaton’s beloved character.
