Jean Smart Joins "The Family Stone" Sequel Cast

Jean Smart has joined the cast of Searchlight Pictures' upcoming sequel, "The Families Stone." This film continues the story of the beloved 2005 Christmas comedy, "The Family Stone." The new movie is set to begin filming in New York during the fall. Smart's addition to the ensemble brings a significant new dynamic to the holiday reunion.

"The Families Stone" centers on the Stone family gathering for Christmas, two decades after their mother's death. The family faces an unexpected surprise when their father introduces them to the woman he has fallen in love with, a role now filled by Smart. This reunion promises to explore new family dynamics and holiday revelations.

The original "The Family Stone" in 2005 followed Meredith Morton's attempt to win over the eccentric Stone family during the holidays. The sequel, first revealed by writer-director Tom Bezucha in 2025, comes after the passing of Diane Keaton, who played the matriarch Sybil. Bezucha has spoken about the profound impact of Keaton's loss on his creative process.