Jessica Biel makes film comeback with John Cena in 'Matchbox the Movie'

Jessica Biel has returned to the big screen after more than nine years away from films, admitting that the length of her break came as a surprise.

The 44-year-old actress stars alongside John Cena in Matchbox the Movie, an action-adventure film released on Apple TV on October 9. Speaking to PEOPLE at a press event in New York City, Biel said she had not realised how long it had been since her last film role.

“That’s weird to me,” Biel said. “I didn’t even know it was a return.” She explained that she had continued working creatively but had focused on television projects rather than films. Realising the length of her movie hiatus “kind of blew my mind”, she added.

Biel's recent television credits include The Better Sister in 2025 and Candy in 2022. In Matchbox the Movie, she plays Aimee, an emergency medical technician who enjoys amateur race-car driving.

The film follows a group of childhood friends whose lives change when Sean, played by Cena, returns to their hometown as an undercover CIA agent. The group becomes caught up in an international pursuit to save the world.

Biel said the script, director Sam Hargrave and cast influenced her decision to join the project. She was also drawn to its mix of action, comedy, friendship and romance. The film marks her first on-screen collaboration with Cena, who plays her love interest.

Preparing for the role also required Biel to undergo performance-driving training. She performed driving sequences involving several vehicles, including an ambulance, a Volkswagen van and a 1968 Ford Mustang Fastback.

The actress, who shares two sons with husband Justin Timberlake, said family responsibilities have influenced her choice of acting projects. She added that the timing of her return felt right and helped her regain confidence in her physical abilities.

Matchbox the Movie began streaming on Apple TV on October 9, 2026.