Universal Pictures has shifted the release of its 'Murder, She Wrote' movie starring Jamie Lee Curtis from December 22, 2027, to February 4, 2028. The change avoids a crowded Christmas release window packed with major studio films. Curtis will play Jessica Fletcher, the role originated by Angela Lansbury in the long-running CBS series.
Universal Pictures announced the new date for its adaptation of the classic TV series 'Murder, She Wrote,' moving the film away from the 2027 holiday season. The studio cited better playability for the mystery film outside of Christmas, steering clear of competition from Disney/Marvel's 'Avengers: Secret Wars,' New Line's 'The Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum,' Lionsgate's 'The Housemaid’s Secret,' Warner Bros.' untitled Nancy Meyers movie, and Sony Pictures Animation's 'Buds.' No major titles currently occupy February 4, 2028. Jason Moore ('Pitch Perfect') directs the project from a screenplay by Lauren Schuker Blum and Rebecca Angelo ('Dumb Money'). Producers include Amy Pascal, Phil Lord, Chris Miller, and Aditya Sood via Lord Miller's deal with Universal. The original 'Murder, She Wrote' aired on CBS for 12 seasons from 1984 to 1996, featuring Angela Lansbury as Jessica Fletcher, a mystery writer and amateur sleuth in Cabot Cove, Maine. The series earned 41 Emmy nominations. Deadline first reported Curtis was eyed for the role in December 2024.