Tiffany Haddish to star in upcoming horror-thriller, 'The Lesson'

The film will also feature Rosario Dawson and is set to begin filming in LA in 2026.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Tiffany Haddish has landed a starring role in a new horror-thriller titled The Lesson. The film, from American Heist and The Bachelor executive producer JoJo Ryder, is about a devoted teacher whose death sparks a series of events that haunt his former students and eventually force them to confront their past. Haddish will act alongside Rosario Dawson, and the plan is for The Lesson to begin filming in LA in 2026.

Why it matters

Tiffany Haddish is a popular and acclaimed comedic actress who is now branching out into the horror-thriller genre, which could help expand her range and appeal to a wider audience. The Lesson also features the involvement of experienced producer JoJo Ryder and co-star Rosario Dawson, suggesting it could be a high-profile and compelling project.

The details

The Lesson is a horror-thriller film that will be directed by JoJo Ryder, who also wrote the script and is an executive producer on the project. The film is about a devoted teacher whose death sparks a series of events that haunt his former students and eventually force them to confront their past.

  • The Lesson is set to begin filming in Los Angeles in 2026.

The players

Tiffany Haddish

An American comedian, actress, and producer who has starred in films such as Girls Trip and Night School.

Rosario Dawson

An American actress known for her roles in films like Sin City, Rent, and The Mandalorian.

JoJo Ryder

An American film producer who has worked on projects like American Heist and The Bachelor.

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What they’re saying

“What drew me to The Lesson was how layered it is. It's not just horror — it's about choices, consequences, and the things we think we can walk away from. Audiences are in for something unexpected.”

— Tiffany Haddish (Deadline)

“I'm thrilled to have Tiffany and Rosario join The Lesson. They bring intensity, range, and a fearless presence that elevates every scene. This story demands emotional depth as much as suspense, and they deliver both.”

— JoJo Ryder, Writer and Director (Deadline)

“I'm looking forward to be working with Tiffany and JoJo.”

— Rosario Dawson (Deadline)

What’s next

Additional casting for The Lesson is currently underway, and the plan is for the film to begin production in Los Angeles in 2026.

The takeaway

Tiffany Haddish's move into the horror-thriller genre with The Lesson, alongside experienced producer JoJo Ryder and co-star Rosario Dawson, suggests the project could be a high-profile and compelling addition to Haddish's filmography as she continues to expand her acting range.