Cameron Diaz is set to star in a new romantic comedy alongside Stephen Merchant, who will both direct and act in the project being developed by Amazon MGM Studios. The film, which has not yet been titled, centers on a work-focused Brit, portrayed by Merchant, who works at a luxurious hotel in New York City. In need of a wife for the sake of appearances, he enters into a deal with a struggling stand-up comedian, played by Diaz, who is seeking health insurance. What begins as a simple transactional arrangement evolves into a relationship that complicates their lives in unexpected ways.
Deadline has reported that Merchant will helm the film, having co-written the screenplay with John Butler. The production team includes Merchant, Butler, Lee Eisenberg, Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg, James Weaver, and Josh Fagen of Point Grey Pictures, with Natalie Sandy serving as executive producer. While no title or release date has been disclosed, excitement builds around the project.
Butler has a notable background, previously directing and writing films like Handsome Devil and Papi Chulo, and most recently, he created the six-part series These Sacred Vows. His collaboration history with Merchant, including work on The Outlaws, adds to the anticipation surrounding this new venture.
For Merchant, this project adds to his growing portfolio, as he is well-known for his contributions as co-creator of The Office. Diaz is also making a comeback with a series of new roles, including her upcoming action film Back in Action for Netflix, which marks her first feature film role in about 11 years. This new romantic comedy promises to be another exciting chapter in her career, highlighting her versatility as an actress.