Julie Klausner to Host Difficult People Movie Reading
The original series cast will reunite in November 2026 for a staged reading of an unproduced script.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Comedy
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Creator Julie Klausner is set to host a staged reading of an unproduced screenplay titled Difficult People: The Movie in November 2026. The event features a reunion of the television show cast, with the exception of Cole Escola.
Why it matters
This staged reading marks a potential step toward a broader stage adaptation of the series. It provides fans with a unique look at the unreleased material that follows the show's original three-season run.
The original television series ran for 3 seasons from 2015 until 2017. The upcoming production, titled Difficult People: The Movie, serves as a reunion for the series cast.
The players
Julie Klausner
She is the creator and co-writer of the original television series Difficult People.
Billy Eichner
He is an actor and comedian who co-wrote the unproduced screenplay for the upcoming staged reading.
Susan Lucci
She is a veteran actress joining the project to replace Cole Escola for the staged reading performance.
Cole Escola
He is a comedic actor and former cast member of the original series who will not be appearing in the reading.
The details
Julie Klausner and co-writer Billy Eichner are reuniting the original cast for this exclusive performance of their unproduced screenplay. Susan Lucci is stepping in to replace Cole Escola for the reading due to scheduling conflicts.
Timeline
The original television series aired on Hulu from 2015 to 2017.
The staged reading of the screenplay is scheduled to occur in November 2026.
Industry Dynamics
This staged reading follows the creative legacy of the 2015-2017 run of Difficult People. It highlights a growing trend of creators utilizing live theater to showcase unproduced projects that were originally developed for television.
Fans of the series can attend the staged reading in New York City this November to experience the unproduced screenplay. The event offers a rare opportunity to see the original cast members perform together live on stage.
The takeaway
Julie Klausner continues to explore the potential for a stage adaptation of her work through this unique performance event. Attendees should anticipate a script-focused presentation rather than a full-scale theatrical production.
Further reading
For more on the local performance scene, visit the New York City Comedy section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The A.V. Club.
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