Forget Deadpool for a moment—Ryan Reynolds has another cult classic that fans are desperate to see return. The 2005 holiday rom-com Just Friends, starring Reynolds alongside Amy Smart, has quietly amassed a devoted following over the years. Now, Smart has reignited hopes for a sequel, and the internet is buzzing.
In a recent interview, Smart expressed genuine enthusiasm about revisiting the world of Just Friends. “I would love to do a sequel,” she said. “The fans are so passionate about that movie, and I think there’s so much more story to tell with those characters.” Her comments have sparked a wave of speculation among fans who have long considered the film an underrated gem in Reynolds’ filmography.
Released in 2005, Just Friends follows Chris Brander (Reynolds), a former high school loser who returns to his hometown as a successful music executive, only to rekindle his crush on his best friend Jamie Palamino (Smart). The film blends sharp comedy with genuine heart, and Reynolds’ physical comedy—especially his memorable bike-riding scene—has become legendary among fans.
Despite mixed reviews upon release, Just Friends has grown into a cult classic, often cited as one of Reynolds’ most underrated performances. The movie’s holiday setting and witty script have made it a seasonal favorite for many, and its streaming success on platforms like Netflix and Hulu has introduced it to new generations.
Smart’s interest in a sequel comes at a time when nostalgia-driven reboots and sequels are dominating Hollywood. From Top Gun: Maverick to Ghostbusters: Afterlife, studios are eager to revisit beloved properties. Just Friends seems like a natural candidate, especially given Reynolds’ massive star power post-Deadpool.
However, a sequel would need to navigate the busy schedules of its stars. Reynolds is currently juggling multiple projects, including the Deadpool franchise and his production company Maximum Effort. Smart, meanwhile, continues to work steadily in TV and film. But as Smart noted, “If the script is right and the timing works, I think it could be really special.”
Fans have already taken to social media to campaign for a sequel, with many suggesting a title like Still Just Friends or Just Friends 2: The Reunion. Some have even pitched storylines involving Chris and Jamie navigating married life or parenthood, bringing the same comedic energy to new challenges.
While no official plans have been announced, Smart’s comments have certainly put the idea back on the table. For now, fans can revisit the original on streaming services and dream of a day when Chris Brander’s bike ride might get a sequel. As one fan tweeted, “We need Just Friends 2 more than we need oxygen.”
For those who haven’t seen it, Just Friends is a perfect blend of holiday cheer and laugh-out-loud comedy. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best movies are the ones that sneak up on you—and that even Ryan Reynolds’ lesser-known work can leave a lasting impression.
