Big Little Lies has fans buzzing with anticipation for a third season, eager to dive back into the drama-packed world of Monterey’s elite. The HBO show, loved for its intense storytelling, gorgeous coastal setting, and stellar performances, left everyone hanging after Season 2 ended in 2019. With fresh updates trickling in, here’s the lowdown on when Season 3 might drop, who’s coming back, and what the story could hold.
Big Little Lies Season 3 Potential Release Date
No set release date exists yet for Big Little Lies Season 3, but the buzz points to a possible 2026 premiere. Nicole Kidman, a lead actress and producer, dropped a hint at the American Film Institute’s Gala in April 2024, saying the show could return “next year,” suggesting a 2026 window. Looking back, Season 2 filmed from March 2018 to June 2019, about 15 months from start to air. If Season 3 follows a similar path, filming might begin late 2025 or early 2026, landing the show on screens by mid-to-late 2026, maybe summer or fall.
Liane Moriarty, the author behind the original book, is working on a new novel that’ll shape the season’s plot. Reese Witherspoon mentioned in October 2024 that Moriarty’s “almost done” with it, and HBO’s Francesca Orsi said in March 2025 that around 150 pages are ready. If Moriarty finishes by mid-2025 and production ramps up soon after, a 2026 release feels doable. Some chatter online mentioned a February 8, 2026, start with seven episodes, but HBO hasn’t backed that up, so don’t mark your calendars just yet.
Big Little Lies Season 3 Expected Cast
The Monterey Five are the soul of the show, and most of the main players seem ready to return. Nicole Kidman and Reese Witherspoon are locked in as Celeste Wright and Madeline Mackenzie, doubling as producers. Shailene Woodley (Jane Chapman), Zoë Kravitz (Bonnie Carlson), and Laura Dern (Renata Klein) haven’t signed contracts publicly, but they’re excited. Zoë told ELLE in March 2025 she’d love to reunite with the crew, calling it a blast. Shailene, in a December 2023 Harper’s Bazaar chat, said the kids growing into teens could spark new drama. Reese and Laura have echoed the enthusiasm, with Reese joking to Vanity Fair years back about jumping right in.
Expect Adam Scott as Ed, Madeline’s steady husband, and Kathryn Newton as her daughter Abigail, who told The Hollywood Reporter in February 2024 she’s ready to go. Iain Armitage, who plays Jane’s son Ziggy, should be back, especially since the kids’ teenage years will shake things up. Meryl Streep as Mary Louise Wright, Perry’s mom, is a question mark, but her Season 2 role was a hit, so fingers crossed. James Tupper (Nathan Carlson) and Jeffrey Nordling (Gordon Klein) are likely to show up too, based on past storylines. No new names have surfaced, but with Francesca Sloane, from Mr. & Mrs. Smith, penning the first episode, some fresh faces might join.
Big Little Lies Season 3 Potential Plot
Big Little Lies hooks viewers with its mix of secrets, betrayals, and messy relationships, and Season 3 won’t hold back. Drawing from Moriarty’s new book, the plot will likely jump forward in time, with the kids now teenagers, bringing new challenges for the moms. Season 2 wrapped with Celeste securing custody of her boys after a showdown with Mary Louise, Bonnie admitting she pushed Perry (Alexander Skarsgård) to his death, and Renata dealing with her husband’s legal mess. The new season could dig into Bonnie’s confession fallout, Celeste’s life as a single mom, and Madeline’s fiery family dynamics.
Moriarty’s hinted the story will center on parenting teens, exploring rebellion and shifting friendships. Shailene mentioned to Harper’s Bazaar that the kids’ growth opens new paths. With Francesca Sloane writing the first episode, replacing David E. Kelley, the vibe might feel fresh but still keep that sharp, darkly funny edge. Details are scarce, but expect Monterey’s glossy surface to hide plenty of chaos.
