Erin Doherty takes over Emma Mackey’s role in new Christmas comedy

Nancy Meyers is back, and she’s bringing Erin Doherty along for the ride.

The Crown and Adolescence star has reportedly replaced Emma Mackey in the director’s highly anticipated, untitled comedy, set to hit cinemas on Christmas Day 2027.

The news comes after Mackey, famous for Sex Education, had to bow out due to scheduling conflicts. 

Doherty is now said to be joining a star-studded cast including Penélope Cruz, Kieran Culkin, Jude Law and Owen Wilson, taking on the role originally earmarked for Mackey.

Plot details remain firmly under wraps, but sources suggest the festive film will follow in the vein of Meyers’ classic hits like Father of the Bride and Private Benjamin. 

The story reportedly revolves around a young writer-director couple who, after a messy split, are forced back together for a new project.

They navigated volatile co-stars, big stakes, and plenty of romantic tension along the way.

Meyers herself shared the news on Instagram, posting a screenshot of The Hollywood Reporter story with the caption: “Happy to share my new movie with this fantastic cast is in the works and will be released on Christmas Day 2027! See you at the movies!” 

Fans and fellow stars quickly flooded the comments with excitement. 

Model Lily Aldridge wrote: “This is the best news EVERRRRRR!!! Can’t wait,” while actress Grace Van Dien added: “Best news of 2026!”

The film has had a complicated journey, initially partnered with Netflix under the working title Paris Paramount. 

For Meyers, this marks a triumphant return to directing since 2015’s The Intern, and with Erin Doherty now on board.

Fans are already counting down the days until the festive premiere.

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