The world of Colleen Hoover book-to-film adaptations continues to be a major force in Hollywood, but the future of its most profitable—and controversial—franchise is now in question. Following the massive box office success of It Ends with Us in 2024, fans have been eagerly awaiting news of a sequel based on the follow-up novel, It Starts with Us. However, the author herself is pouring cold water on those hopes.
Hoover's Hesitant Stance on a Sequel
In a recent interview, Hoover addressed the potential for continuing Lily and Atlas's story on the big screen. "I wrote that book as a 'thank you' to readers," Hoover explained. "I don’t know that there’s enough story to make a film. 'It Ends with Us' was so impactful, and it was so well wrapped up in the first film." She did leave a sliver of possibility open, adding, "Of course, if they all came together and wanted to do it, I’m not going to talk anyone out of it. But when I wrote that one, it was never an intention to see it on film. I just wanted to see Atlas and Lily happy."
This uncertainty from the source material's creator presents a significant hurdle for any studio planning a follow-up. The first film, despite—or perhaps because of—major off-screen drama between stars Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, became a global phenomenon, earning over $350 million against a modest $25 million budget. That level of success typically screams for a franchise, but the path forward is murky.
The Shadow of Controversy
Any discussion of an It Ends with Us sequel is inextricably linked to the lawsuits and allegations of a toxic work environment that plagued the first film's production. This off-screen controversy was a constant shadow over the film's marketing and release. As Hoover hinted, moving forward would almost certainly require recasting at least one of the central roles, a move that could alienate the dedicated fanbase that powered the original's success. It's a similar situation to other franchises facing casting conundrums, like the uncertain future teased for Charlie Cox's Daredevil in the Marvel universe.
Other Hoover Adaptations Face Mixed Results
While It Ends with Us dominated the conversation, other Hoover adaptations have had varying fortunes. The recently released Reminders of Him, starring Maika Monroe and Lauren Graham, debuted to a respectable box office showing, telling a story focused on motherhood and redemption. However, it failed to capture the same cultural firestorm.
Another adaptation, 2025's Regretting You, performed solidly but was critically panned, ultimately grossing $90 million worldwide. It serves as a reminder that not every beloved novel translates to unanimous screen success, a challenge many sequels face, much like the upcoming 'Ready or Not 2' which is also entering a tough box office landscape.
What's Next for Hoover on Screen?
For now, the door on Lily and Atlas's cinematic journey appears to be mostly closed, held ajar only by the sheer force of fan demand and box office potential. The situation highlights the complex calculus behind greenlighting sequels, where artistic intent, logistical nightmares from past productions, and commercial appeal must all be balanced. It's a waiting game familiar to fans of many series, such as those still seeking updates on 'Peacemaker' Season 3.
While Hoover's latest adaptation, Reminders of Him, continues its theatrical run, all eyes will remain on whether the powerful combination of her storytelling and a passionate fanbase can eventually convince her—and a studio—to say "It Starts with Us" for a sequel film. For now, fans may have to be content with the pages of the book.
