Author Colleen Hoover has selected Maika Monroe and Tyriq Withers to portray the leads in the film adaptation of her novel Reminders of Him. The story follows a woman's quest to reconnect with her daughter after prison. The movie also features Rudy Pankow, Lainey Wilson, Lauren Graham, and Bradley Whitford.
Colleen Hoover's bestselling novel Reminders of Him is being adapted for the screen, with Maika Monroe cast as Kenna Rowan and Tyriq Withers as Ledger Ward. Hoover personally chose the actors for the main roles. The film also stars Rudy Pankow, Lainey Wilson, Lauren Graham, and Bradley Whitford.
The plot centers on Kenna Rowan, who returns to her hometown of Laramie after serving seven years in prison following a life-altering crash. She seeks to rebuild her life and meet her daughter Diem, whom she has never known. Diem's custodial grandparents prevent contact, but Kenna finds support from local bar owner Ledger Ward. The narrative explores themes of heartbreak, love, and second chances.
Hoover praised Monroe's performance in her audition, noting, “Maika captured that perfectly in her audition. She has this incredible ability to hold back until the emotion needs to surface. When it does, it’s beautiful. Even in moments of silence, she is doing so much. I cannot imagine anyone else playing Kenna.” Monroe prepared by immersing herself in the book, which provided details beyond the script. She highlighted Kenna's transformation: “Before the accident, she is fun and full of life, and her relationship with Scotty feels easy. Afterward, she is completely changed. That kind of trauma never leaves you. Even in your happiest moments, there is still pain underneath that never fully goes away.”
Ledger is a former NFL player who returned to Laramie to care for Diem, the daughter of his late best friend Scotty. Producer Gina Matthews commended Withers, saying, “Ledger needed to feel believable as a former football player, but also emotionally grounded. Tyriq has that presence. He brings strength, warmth and a surprising sensitivity. He kept rising to the top of every conversation.” Withers connected personally with the role: “What drew me to Ledger was how closely his story mirrors parts of my own life. He is carrying grief while trying to be strong for everyone around him.” He appreciated Hoover's on-set guidance: “Having Colleen there was incredible. She is open and generous, and that gave me confidence. When the person who created the character tells you, ‘You are Ledger,’ it allows you to trust your instincts completely.”
Reminders of Him is set for release on March 11.
