Phoebe Dynevor to Star in 'Beach Read' Film Adaptation

Bridgerton actress to lead romantic comedy based on Emily Henry's bestselling novel.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Phoebe Dynevor, known for her role in the hit Netflix series Bridgerton, has been cast to star in the film adaptation of Emily Henry's bestselling novel Beach Read. The romantic comedy follows a romance novelist who reconnects with her college rival while staying at her late father's beach house.

Why it matters

This marks the latest screen adaptation of an Emily Henry novel, as the author's works continue to gain popularity and attract high-profile talent. The casting of Dynevor, a rising star, also signals the film's potential to resonate with audiences and become a hit.

The details

In Beach Read, Dynevor will play the character of January Andrews, a romance novelist struggling with writer's block after the death of her father and the discovery of his secrets. While staying at her father's Michigan beach house, January reconnects with Gus Everett, her former college rival, and the two embark on an unexpected romantic journey as they challenge each other to get out of their writing ruts.

  • The film adaptation of Beach Read is currently in development.

The players

Phoebe Dynevor

An English actress known for her starring role in the Netflix period drama series Bridgerton.

Emily Henry

An American author whose romantic comedy novels, including Beach Read, have become bestsellers and are being adapted for the screen.

Yulin Kuang

A filmmaker who will direct the Beach Read film adaptation and co-wrote the screenplay for the Netflix adaptation of Henry's novel People We Meet on Vacation.

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What’s next

The film adaptation of Beach Read is currently in development, with no further details announced about the production timeline or additional casting.

The takeaway

The adaptation of Emily Henry's popular romantic comedy novels, including the casting of rising star Phoebe Dynevor in Beach Read, demonstrates the growing demand for feel-good, character-driven stories on the big screen.