Exploring the Changes Between The Housemaid Movie and Book Ending
Sydney Sweeney and Amanda Seyfried in ‘The Housemaid.’
Credit:
Daniel McFadden/Lionsgate
NEED TO KNOW
- The Housemaid, a thriller film based on Freida McFadden’s 2022 novel, premiered on December 19.
- Sydney Sweeney stars as Millie, a housemaid hired by a wealthy woman with a dark secret, portrayed by Amanda Seyfried.
- While the film adheres closely to the book’s storyline, its ending was modified to deliver a more dramatic conclusion for one character.
Audiences were captivated as the ending of The Housemaid offered surprising twists even for those familiar with the novel.
Adapted from Freida McFadden’s bestselling thriller, the film tells the story of Millie (Sydney Sweeney), who takes on a job as a housemaid for the affluent couple Nina (Amanda Seyfried) and Andrew Winchester (Brandon Sklenar). As Millie adapts to the couple’s seemingly idyllic lifestyle, she discovers that the complex power dynamics at play and her own shadowy past may upend her fresh start.
In anticipation of the December 19 theatrical release, director Paul Feig shared insights into the adaptations made while translating McFadden’s intricate tale to the screen.
Feig stated, “I try to be very, very true to the book. We stuck to the narrative pretty closely, but some elements were altered for cinematic effect.”
One significant modification was the film’s conclusion. Though the film retains the major twist of the original story, one character meets a considerably more gruesome fate.
As viewers will find, the ending of The Housemaid introduces elements that reshape the inquiry into the franchise’s future.
Warning: Spoilers for The Housemaid ahead!
How do The Housemaid book and movie endings differ?
Sydney Sweeney in ‘The Housemaid.’
Daniel McFadden/Lionsgate
Both McFadden’s novel and the film adaptation share the pivotal revelation that Andrew is an abusive husband who confines Nina in the attic. In a dramatic twist, Millie ultimately turns the tables, locking Andrew in the attic.
In the novel, however, Millie leaves Andrew trapped without sustenance, leading to his demise due to self-inflicted torment. Nina, misled by Enzo, returns to discover Andrew’s lifeless body instead of Millie. She compels Millie to escape and misleadingly informs the police that her housekeeper has been absent, as an officer connected to Andrew’s abusive history conveniently overlooks the situation.
The film adaptation portrays Andrew’s death with heightened violence. In a harrowing encounter when Nina opens the attic door, Andrew lunges at both women. Millie intervenes during a brutal staircase confrontation, resulting in a fatal shove that sends Andrew plummeting.
Following this gripping sequence, the movie largely follows the conclusion of the book. Nina and her daughter leave the town, Andrew’s abusive actions are unveiled, and Millie hints at a possible new career as a hitwoman.
Why was the ending of The Housemaid changed?
Amanda Seyfried in ‘The Housemaid.’
Daniel McFadden/Lionsgate
Despite the movie’s faithful adherence to the book, Feig remarked in December 2025 that he aimed to “expand the ending.”
“The book concludes satisfyingly for a literary work, but it lacks the necessary closure for a film,” noted Feig. He emphasized the need for a more dramatic resolution that would resonate with audiences craving a more visceral encounter.
Elaborating further, Feig stated, “The structure is already strong, so I sought to engage the audience by building suspense. McFadden’s narrative skillfully compels readers to root for morally ambiguous characters while ensuring they ultimately face consequences. That’s where the excitement lies.”
What has Freida McFadden said about the new ending?
Freida McFadden in 2025.
Dia Dipasupil/Getty
In September 2025, McFadden shared insights on the adaptation via her Instagram account, stating that she considered it “better than the book.” At the New York premiere of The Housemaid, she elaborated on her positive assessment.
“I just thought the end was so exciting, and it really made the whole thing go out with a bang,” she expressed at the event, although remaining coy about details.
What has Paul Feig said about the new ending?
Paul Feig.
Dia Dipasupil/Getty
During the Los Angeles premiere of The Housemaid, Feig shared his enthusiasm about redefining the audience’s expectations for a story many viewers recognize.
“The book is available, so audiences are aware of the twist,” he noted in December 2025. “Yet we’ve introduced a new ending, providing fans of the book with additional surprises. There are aspects from the book that are fulfilling, but adaptations always seek to elevate that experience.”
Without giving too much away, Feig indicated he aimed to provide closure to various character arcs.
Will there be a sequel to The Housemaid?
Amanda Seyfried and Sydney Sweeney in ‘The Housemaid.’
Courtesy of Lionsgate
Although McFadden has penned three books and a short story in the series, an official sequel announcement for the film has yet to be made. However, Feig mentioned that the film is designed to lay the groundwork for future storytelling.
“We’ve discussed it,” he confessed, emphasizing his affection for Millie’s character and the potential for further narratives. “Given that Freida has written additional works, we’ll assess how this film performs—it ultimately depends on that.”
McFadden also conveyed her enthusiasm for continuing to adapt her stories for the screen, stating, “That would be a dream. I know Paul Feig would do an amazing job on the sequel. He’s incredible.”
