Jamie Lee Curtis laid down a significant condition before agreeing to star in the upcoming sequel to the beloved film “Freaky Friday,” titled “Freakier Friday.” In a recent interview, she emphasized the importance of filming the movie in Los Angeles, highlighting the city’s struggles following the devastating Palisades wildfires of early 2025. Curtis firmly stated her refusal to relocate the production to cheaper filming locations like Atlanta or Vancouver, insisting that shooting in Los Angeles was crucial for the film’s authenticity and tribute to the affected community.
“The original movie was filmed here, and I knew that the sequel had to be shot in Los Angeles,” Curtis, now 66, declared. She added that if Disney couldn’t secure the necessary tax credits for filming in Los Angeles, she would not proceed with the project.
Curtis expressed her emotional connection to the local area, noting the poignant loss of the house that served as the backdrop for Lindsay Lohan’s character Anna Coleman in the 2003 remake. “It burnt to the ground” during the fires, she explained, which made her determination to film in the region even stronger.
Lindsay Lohan, who co-starred in the original film, shared in Curtis’s sentiments, stating that the new film serves as a heartfelt homage to California, particularly after the fires. She noted that many scenes were shot in the Pacific Palisades and Malibu, and emphasized the significance of returning to local filming sites where crew members could stay near their families.
“Freakier Friday” is set to be released in theaters on August 8, and promises to deliver not just entertainment, but a poignant reminder of resilience and community spirit in the wake of disaster.
This sequel not only rekindles fond memories of the original film but also serves as a tribute to the beauty of Los Angeles and the strength of its community in overcoming challenges. The combined efforts of Curtis and Lohan to ensure local filming is a heartening aspect that highlights the importance of supporting local economies and preserving cultural landmarks.