Why is Jamie Lee Curtis’ debut appearance moved to 2028?

Universal Studios announced today that they are pushing back the release of the highly anticipated Murder, She Wrote film.

The film featured veteran actress Jamie Lee Curtis, and is moved from its original release date of December 22, 2027 to February 4, 2028.

As a result, fans of the show will now have to wait an additional two years to see Curtis’ debut appearance as Jessica Fletcher.

No explanation was given for the delay. It is purported that the date overlapped the holiday season release schedule of high-profile editions.

This include Avengers: Secret Wars, The Lord of the Rings: Hunt for Gollum, and The Housemaid's Secret, which were all scheduled to be released on December 17, 2027.

The 67-year-old star is taking over the role of the brilliant mystery writer and amateur detective.

It was originally portrayed by Angela Lansbury in the original 12-season TV series that aired from 1984-1996.

Before appearing in Murder, She Wrote, Curtis will appear in two independent movies, a thriller titled Sender and a crime drama called The Only Living Pickpocket in New York, both of which were released in 2016.

When discussing the project in July of 2025 with Entertainment Tonight, Curtis stated, "Oh it's... happening. We're a minute away. But very excited. I'm tamping down my enthusiasm until we start shooting."

Curtis is currently working on the film, and timeline for the continuation of the project as well as the cast details have yet to be announced by Universal Studios.