Jamie Lee Curtis has steadily grown into one of Hollywood’s most cherished leading actresses, with a career spanning multiple decades. She rose to fame playing Laurie in the iconic Halloween franchise, a role she reprised through several sequels, including the recent 2022 release, Halloween Ends. Beyond horror, Curtis has earned critical acclaim for her versatility, winning an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for Everything Everywhere All At Once and receiving Emmy recognition for her role in the TV series The Bear.
Among her notable performances is the 2003 family comedy Freaky Friday, which has recently seen a surge in streaming popularity. This increase is well-timed, as excitement builds ahead of the sequel Freakier Friday, set to premiere soon.
The Rise of Freaky Friday on Streaming Services
The 2003 version of Freaky Friday, featuring Jamie Lee Curtis alongside Lindsay Lohan as a mother and daughter who unexpectedly swap bodies, is once again capturing audiences’ attention. The film was a commercial success in theaters, grossing $160.8 million globally on a modest $20 million budget. Its mix of humor and heart made it a beloved remake of the original 1976 film.
Currently, Freaky Friday is trending on Disney+, ranking as the fourth most-watched movie in the United States as of July 30. This resurgence reflects sustained interest in the story and stars, buoyed by the platform’s reach and increasing subscriber engagement. The renewed popularity positions Freaky Friday prominently alongside other popular titles, including two Fantastic 4 films also trending on the service.
Freakier Friday Brings a Fresh Twist to a Beloved Premise
The sequel, Freakier Friday, is scheduled for release on August 8 and promises to expand the original concept dramatically. Unlike the original body swap between Curtis’ and Lohan’s characters, Freakier Friday introduces a complex four-way switch involving Curtis, Lohan, Lohan’s daughter, and her soon-to-be stepdaughter. This new dynamic adds complexity and fresh comedic potential, aiming to attract longtime fans and new viewers alike.
What to Expect from the Sequel’s Impact on the Franchise
The streaming success of the original film bodes well for Freakier Friday’s theatrical launch, suggesting that Disney+ subscribers are eager to revisit the franchise ahead of the new installment. While the first movie set a high standard at the box office, the current enthusiasm sparked by streaming could boost the sequel’s performance further.
This growing interest highlights how digital platforms increasingly influence movie launches by generating anticipation and encouraging audiences to engage with previous titles. Freakier Friday’s release will test whether streaming buzz can translate into strong box office returns, potentially elevating the franchise to new commercial heights.
