The romantic comedy, directed by Dave McCary, is set for a May 2027 release
Category: Arts & Culture
Ashley Padilla, a breakout star from Saturday Night Live, has signed on to star alongside Emma Stone and Chris Pine in Universal Pictures’ upcoming romantic comedy, The Catch. The announcement comes as the film prepares to begin shooting in July 2026 in New York City, with director Dave McCary at the helm, who is also married to Stone.
Details about the film's plot remain largely under wraps, but sources describe it as a blend of Bull Durham and Notting Hill, with Stone portraying a baseball fan who accidentally alters the course of a game-winning catch, earning her the title of the most hated woman in baseball. Padilla will play Stone’s sister, marking a key role in what is anticipated to be a major comedic feature.
Padilla's involvement in The Catch marks her first major studio feature, following her rise to prominence on SNL. The 2024 season saw her quickly become a standout performer, drawing attention for her comedic timing and skillful use of pauses, which was highlighted in an article by the New York Times that praised her "virtuosic deployment of the pregnant pause" and "actorly nuance and subtlety." Before joining SNL, Padilla was part of the Groundlings Theater in Los Angeles and was an assistant to actress Diane Keaton.
The screenplay for The Catch has undergone several revisions, with Jen Statsky and Travis Helwig credited for the most recent draft. The original script was penned by Patrick Kang and Michael H. Weber, known for his work on 500 Days of Summer. The film is being produced under a first-look deal with Universal Pictures through Stone and McCary's production company, Fruit Tree, along with producers Shawn Levy and Dan Levine from 21 Laps, who are fresh off the success of their recent project, Backrooms.
As the film gears up for production, it has generated considerable buzz within the industry, particularly due to its intriguing premise and the star-studded cast. McCary's experience as a segment director on SNL and his marriage to Stone adds an interesting personal dimension to the project, potentially influencing the film's comedic tone and style.
The film's narrative, centered around baseball, taps into the rich tradition of sports comedies that blend humor with heartfelt storytelling. Movies like Bull Durham have set a precedent for combining romance with the sports genre, making it a familiar yet refreshing venture for audiences. Stone's character, described as the "most hated woman in baseball," suggests a complex role that could explore themes of fame, public perception, and the consequences of one's actions.
Padilla's rise as a prominent figure on SNL reflects a broader trend in the entertainment industry, where talent from sketch comedy backgrounds increasingly transitions to feature films. This shift is indicative of changing audience preferences, as viewers seek relatable and diverse voices in mainstream cinema. The involvement of established names like Stone and Pine alongside Padilla highlights a commitment to fostering new talent within the industry.
As Universal Pictures prepares for the release of The Catch, the studio's strategy appears to focus on blending established star power with fresh perspectives, aiming to capture a wide audience. The film's release date of May 21, 2027, positions it strategically within the summer blockbuster season, which is traditionally dominated by high-profile releases.
With production set to kick off in July 2026, anticipation is building around The Catch. The film aims to offer a unique comedic take on the intersection of sports and romance, appealing to fans of both genres. As the project progresses, more details are expected to emerge, including potential casting news and promotional materials.
Padilla's performance is particularly anticipated, as audiences are eager to see how her comedic talents translate to a leading role in a feature film. Following her success on SNL, this opportunity could pave the way for more substantial roles in the future, establishing her as a formidable presence in Hollywood.
As the release date approaches, industry insiders will follow closely closely to gauge audience reactions to the film's initial trailers and marketing campaigns. The combination of a well-known director, a talented cast, and a promising script positions The Catch as a potential hit in the romantic comedy genre.
In the meantime, Padilla is represented by UTA, OPE Partners, and Hansen Jacobson, and the project is being overseen by Erik Baiers and Jacqueline Garell from Universal Pictures, ensuring that it receives the attention and resources needed to succeed in a competitive market.