The sequel to “The Family Jewel,” which in the United States was known as “The Family Stone,” is taking shape. Twenty years after the release of the original installment, the production of a second part is advancing on the right track, with a large portion of its cast having confirmed their return to relive the misadventures of the Stone family. Except, of course, for one conspicuous absence: Diane Keaton, the actress who passed away last year at the age of 79.
In one way or another, the show must go on, and even though Keaton is no longer with us, the family won’t be complete without a new matriarch among the Stones. And it seems we have a new candidate for the role: Jean Smart, a Golden Globe winner and eight-time Emmy recipient, officially joins the cast as the primary love interest of Kelly Stone, portrayed by Craig T. Nelson. Dad is rebuilding his life again after so long.
Reordering the Family
This actress switch is only natural if we recall that in the original film Sybil, Keaton’s character, died of cancer, for which she had been undergoing treatment since the very beginning of the story. The sequel will serve as a double-edged device to process the grief both for the character and for her original actress, who gave us memorable roles across more than fifty years of professional career.
The character played by Smart has been announced via social media to promote the film. It is still early to know details about her role beyond the romantic interest she will represent for Kelly Stone. It seems like an excellent choice to join the cast with the breadth of awards she can boast, and more than forty years of experience in theatre, cinema, and television. The original matriarch is irreplaceable, but Smart should do a commendable job filling in for her absence.
More Gems in the Family
The sequel to ‘The Family Jewel’, which was known in the United States as ‘The Family Stone’, does not yet have an official title. The original installment pitted Meredith, played by Sarah Jessica Parker, against the family of her boyfriend Everett, played by Dermot Mulroney. Both actors return to reprise their roles in this second installment, though it remains to be seen whether they will continue to be the central focus of the story or whether this focus will shift to other members such as Rachel McAdams or Luke Wilson.
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