Paramount+ Delivers Sleek, Modern Reimagining of 'Fatal Attraction'

The 8-episode miniseries starring Lizzy Caplan and Joshua Jackson adds nuance to the classic erotic thriller.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Paramount+ has released an 8-episode miniseries reimagining the 1987 classic film 'Fatal Attraction'. The new version stars Lizzy Caplan as Alex Forrest and Joshua Jackson as Dan Gallagher, with a timeline that jumps between the heat of their affair and the messy fallout years later. The series leans into the complexity of the characters without losing the sizzle, and provides a more nuanced take on Alex's mental health compared to the original film.

Why it matters

The 2023 'Fatal Attraction' series offers a fresh, modern spin on the iconic erotic thriller, exploring the consequences of a weekend affair in a way that feels more grounded and thoughtful than the original movie. By giving Alex a fuller interior life, the show allows the audience to empathize with both her and Dan, rather than positioning her as a one-dimensional villain.

The details

The 8-episode miniseries follows Deputy District Attorney Dan Gallagher (Joshua Jackson) as his 'this will only be a weekend' affair with Alex Forrest (Lizzy Caplan) spirals out of control over the course of years. The dual timelines allow the show to examine how Dan's choices reverberate, while also providing a sharper family dynamic through the inclusion of Ellen, Dan's college-aged daughter. The series leans into the complexity of the characters without losing the steamy, thriller elements that made the original film a classic.

  • The 'Fatal Attraction' miniseries premiered on Paramount+ in April 2023.
  • The original 'Fatal Attraction' film was released in 1987.

The players

Lizzy Caplan

An American actress who stars as Alex Forrest, the role originated by Glenn Close in the 1987 film.

Joshua Jackson

A Canadian actor who plays Dan Gallagher, the role originated by Michael Douglas in the 1987 film.

Amanda Peet

An American actress who portrays Beth, Dan's wife.

Alyssa Jirrels

An American actress who plays Ellen, Dan's college-aged daughter.

Paramount+

The streaming service that produced and released the 'Fatal Attraction' miniseries.

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What’s next

The 'Fatal Attraction' miniseries is a limited series, so there are no plans for additional seasons at this time.

The takeaway

The 2023 'Fatal Attraction' series on Paramount+ offers a fresh, nuanced take on the classic erotic thriller, exploring the consequences of a weekend affair in a way that feels more grounded and thoughtful than the original film. By giving the central character of Alex a fuller interior life, the show allows the audience to empathize with both her and Dan, rather than positioning her as a one-dimensional villain.