Emily Henry announces Netflix movie adaptations of Funny Story and Happy Place

Netflix greenlights Emily Henry rom-com adaptations Funny Story and Happy Place after People We Meet on Vacation films

Netflix is expanding its partnership with bestselling romance author Emily Henry by developing two more film adaptations based on her novels Funny Story and Happy Place.

The announcement comes just ahead of the release of People We Meet on Vacation, the first Emily Henry book to be adapted for the screen, which premieres on Netflix on January 9, 2026.

Following the success and anticipation surrounding People We Meet on Vacation, Netflix confirmed that Henry will not only executive produce but also write the screenplays for both upcoming projects. The author described the opportunity as a milestone, noting that the streaming platform’s enthusiasm and support made it the ideal home for her stories. By taking on the scripts herself, Henry will have direct creative input in translating her beloved characters and emotional arcs to film.

Funny Story will be produced by Alexander Black and Natalie Sellers for Lyrical Media, alongside Aaron Ryder and Andrew Sweet for RPC. Happy Place will be produced by Jennifer Lopez, Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas, and Benny Medina under the Nuyorican banner, adding further star power behind the scenes.

Emily Henry has built a devoted global fanbase with her modern romantic comedies, known for blending humor, emotional depth, and relatable relationships. Readers have long called for faithful screen adaptations, and Netflix’s growing slate of romance films positions the streamer as a key destination for the genre.

People We Meet on Vacation stars Emily Bader and Tom Blyth as longtime friends Poppy and Alex, whose annual trips together lead to unexpected romance. With Funny Story and Happy Place now officially in development, Netflix is signaling a long-term commitment to bringing Emily Henry’s romance universe to the screen, further cementing rom-coms as a major pillar of its original film strategy.