Monster-in-Law 2 (2025): Jane Fonda Returns for More Family Feuds and Comedy
Two decades after the original film made audiences laugh with its battle of wits between mother-in-law and bride-to-be, Monster-in-Law 2 is reportedly on its way — and fans of classic romantic comedies are already buzzing. Set to premiere in 2025, this long-awaited sequel brings back Jane Fonda as the fiercely overbearing, ever-fabulous Viola Fields, along with Jennifer Lopez as the strong-willed Charlie, now a seasoned wife and mother herself. With roles reversed and new family drama in the mix, Monster-in-Law 2 promises more laughs, sharper claws, and a fresh take on generational clashes.
In the 2005 original, Viola — a recently fired talk show host and borderline nightmare — did everything in her power to sabotage her son Kevin’s engagement to Charlie. What followed was a hilarious war of sabotage, manipulation, and eventually, unexpected bonding. The film was a box office success and became a cult favorite, especially for its unapologetically over-the-top humor and the chemistry between Fonda and Lopez.
Now, in the sequel, the tables have turned. Charlie and Kevin (Michael Vartan) are happily married and raising a teenage daughter, Sofia, who’s just announced her engagement — to someone Viola immediately disapproves of. But here’s the twist: Charlie now finds herself playing the role of the overly concerned, possibly sabotaging mother — channeling Viola more than she ever expected. Meanwhile, Viola, now older and (allegedly) wiser, sees this as her chance to prove she can be the cool, evolved grandmother... though old habits die hard.
The heart of Monster-in-Law 2 lies in the complex, hilarious, and sometimes touching bond between women across generations. Viola and Charlie must navigate their own differences while trying to support (or control) Sofia’s wedding plans. Along the way, new comedic rivals are introduced — including Sofia’s future mother-in-law, played by none other than Fran Drescher, whose larger-than-life personality may finally give Viola a taste of her own medicine.
Directed by Anne Fletcher (The Proposal), the film aims to recapture the charm of mid-2000s rom-coms while updating its themes for modern audiences. From wedding planning disasters and passive-aggressive brunches to therapy sessions gone wrong, Monster-in-Law 2 doesn’t shy away from poking fun at familial tension — but it also finds sincerity in the mess. At its core, it’s about learning to let go, growing older with grace (or without), and the endless, complicated love that exists within families.
Jane Fonda, now in her late 80s and still acting with fierce comedic timing, reportedly delivers a standout performance, reminding audiences why Viola Fields became such an unforgettable character. Jennifer Lopez brings depth and self-awareness to Charlie, whose journey from struggling outsider to empowered matriarch adds emotional resonance.
Expected to release in late 2025, Monster-in-Law 2 may not reinvent the genre, but it offers exactly what fans want: laughter, chaos, and one unforgettable mother-in-law.
