Jessica Alba Heads to ’13 Going on 30′ as Netflix Revives the Rom-Com
For anyone who still quotes “30, flirty, and thriving,” get ready for a new version of a rom-com favorite. 13 Going on 30 is officially getting a fresh spin for…
For anyone who still quotes "30, flirty, and thriving," get ready for a new version of a rom-com favorite. 13 Going on 30 is officially getting a fresh spin for Netflix, giving a whole new generation the chance to discover the charm, laughs, and heart that made the original such a classic.
Director Brett Haley (All the Bright Places, All Together Now, People We Meet on Vacation) is taking on the reimagining, with Emily Bader (The 99'ers, People We Meet on Vacation) and Logan Lerman (Oh, Hi!, Only Murders in the Building) leading the new cast.
A Familiar Reunion
The film also marks Haley's first project with Bader since People We Meet on Vacation, where she stars as the lovable Poppy. The director is thrilled to be working with her again.
"She and the amazingly talented Logan Lerman are a magical pairing," said the director. "I feel incredibly lucky to be trusted with something that means so much to so many people."
A New Cast, With Jennifer Garner's Blessing
Netflix is keeping story details a secret for now, but the cast is already shaping up to be impressive. Alongside Bader and Lerman are Jessica Alba (Too Much), Taylor Ortega (Big Mistakes), and Our Little Secret co-stars Tim Meadows and Dan Bucatinsky.
Fans of the original can also relax knowing Jennifer Garner, who made Jenna Rink an unforgettable character in the 2004 film, is returning as an executive producer. Her involvement gives the reimagining an extra connection to the movie audiences have loved for years.
Haley understands just how much the original means to fans.
"13 Going on 30 is one of those rare, perfect films," said Haley. "Funny, emotional, [and] deeply human, with unforgettable performances from Jennifer Garner, Mark Ruffalo, and Judy Greer. I’m a longtime fan, so stepping into this reimagining comes with tremendous responsibility. Jennifer Garner being on board as an executive producer, after playing such a big part of what made the original special, is especially meaningful."
While fans will have to wait a little longer to learn exactly how this new version will unfold, one thing is already clear: Netflix hopes to capture the same magic that turned 13 Going on 30 into a timeless feel-good favorite, while introducing Jenna Rink's unforgettable story to a brand-new audience.
