Netflix Greenlights Two Emily Henry Adaptations for the Big Screen

Netflix is doubling down on the works of Emily Henry, giving the green light to two new movies inspired by the acclaimed romance novelist. Following the January 9, 2026, debut of People We Meet on Vacation—starring Emily Bader and Tom Blyth and hailed as a Gen-Z take on When Harry Met Sally—the streaming giant is expanding its partnership with Henry. The film has been well received, earning an 80% score on Rotten Tomatoes and drawing praise from critics for its fresh approach to modern romance.

New Projects: Funny Story and Happy Place

According to Variety, Netflix has secured the rights to Funny Story, which entered development in 2024. In a strategic move, the company is also transforming the previously announced Happy Place project from a TV series into a feature film. The deal for both adaptations was finalized on January 8, 2026, just a day before People We Meet on Vacation premiered. Alex Black, CEO of Lyrical Media, the production company behind Funny Story, shared his excitement:

"Emily Henry has a gift for creating characters that truly connect with audiences, and it ’s no surprise her books have resonated with so many. We’re excited to be following up People You Meet on Vacation and collaborating with her on Funny Story — it’s going to be such a thrill bringing her beloved characters to the big screen."

Plot Details and Creative Teams

Funny Story centers on Daphne, a children's librarian whose fiancé, Peter, calls off their engagement after realizing he still loves his childhood best friend, Petra. Left behind in Peter's lakeside hometown, Daphne ends up sharing a place with Miles, Petra's ex. The two team up to get back at their former partners, only to find themselves developing feelings for each other. Emily Henry is penning the screenplay herself, though casting and a director have yet to be announced.

Happy Place, released as a novel in April 2023, follows Harriet and Wyn, a couple who recently ended their engagement but pretend to still be together during one last summer getaway with friends. As they navigate the trip, they’re forced to confront what—and who—truly makes them happy. Leila Cohan, known for her work on Bridgerton, was originally attached as showrunner for the series version, but it’s unclear if she’ll stay on now that the project is a film. Jennifer Lopez’s Nuyorican Productions remains involved as a producer.

Emily Henry’s Ongoing Success

Emily Henry has become a powerhouse in contemporary romance, winning the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Romance five years running, starting with People We Meet on Vacation in 2021 and most recently with Great Big Beautiful Life. Both Happy Place and Funny Story took home the award in 2023 and 2024, respectively. While Netflix is investing heavily in Henry’s stories, 20th Century Studios has also acquired the rights to Beach Read, another of her bestsellers, which is currently in development for the big screen.