As of 10:10 AM +07 on Thursday, July 31, 2025, Hollywood is abuzz with anticipation for Happy Hours, a steamy new Netflix trilogy that reunites Dawson’s Creek icons Katie Holmes and Joshua Jackson. This ambitious project, blending nostalgia with a fresh romantic dramedy, has reignited fans’ passions and sparked rumors of a rekindled off-screen connection. With Holmes directing, writing, and starring alongside her former co-star and ex-boyfriend Jackson, the series promises to explore the emotional complexities of young loves reuniting as adults. Set against the backdrop of New York City, Happy Hours is poised to be a breathless comeback that blends heartfelt storytelling with the undeniable chemistry that once captivated a generation.

A Reunion Decades in the Making

The seeds of this reunion were planted over two decades ago on the set of Dawson’s Creek, the iconic WB teen drama that aired from 1998 to 2003. Holmes played Joey Potter, the tomboyish dreamer navigating love and life, while Jackson portrayed Pacey Witter, the charming rogue who stole her heart—and the audience’s. Their on-screen romance, culminating in a series finale where Joey chose Pacey over Dawson Leery, mirrored a real-life relationship that blossomed during the show’s first season, lasting from 1998 to 1999. Though their romance ended, their bond endured, with Jackson recently noting their closeness on Jesse Tyler Ferguson’s podcast, Dinner’s on Me.

The announcement of Happy Hours on July 21, 2025, via Holmes’ Instagram, sent fans into a frenzy. The trilogy, currently filming in New York, marks Holmes’ latest directorial venture following Alone Together and Rare Objects. Jackson, fresh from Doctor Odyssey’s cancellation, joins her as her on-screen love interest, reviving the magic that defined their Dawson’s Creek days. Photos from the set—capturing them pushing a baby stroller, sharing laughs, and exchanging high-fives—have fueled speculation of a chemistry that transcends the script, leaving viewers eager for more.

A Story of Love, Loss, and Rediscovery

Happy Hours is described as a character-driven dramedy following two former sweethearts who reconnect as adults, navigating the challenges of careers, family, and the pursuit of love. The official synopsis hints at a narrative woven with shared joys, loss, and hope, drawing parallels to the Before Sunrise trilogy but rooted in the urban pulse of New York rather than European vistas. Holmes’ vision casts the pair as individuals balancing personal dreams with life’s obstacles, a theme that resonates with their own journeys since Dawson’s Creek.

Filming began this summer, with the first installment already underway, followed by plans for the second and third parts. The ensemble cast includes Mary-Louise Parker, Constance Wu, Joe Tippett, John McGinty, Donald Webber Jr., Nathan Darrow, Johnna Dias-Watson, and Jack Martin, who portray younger versions of Holmes and Jackson’s characters. The inclusion of a baby stroller in recent scenes suggests a subplot involving parenthood, adding depth to their rekindled romance. While no release date is confirmed, industry insiders predict a 2026 premiere, aligning with the trilogy’s ambitious scope.

On-Screen Sparks and Off-Screen Rumors

The set photos have become a cultural phenomenon, with Holmes and Jackson’s interactions—head on shoulder, arms around necks, and playful hugs—evoking the Dawson’s Creek era. Fans on social media platforms like X have dubbed it a “Joey and Pacey reunion,” with one user exclaiming, “I can’t believe we get to live in the same lifetime as this.” Their ease together, documented during rainy shoots in Central Park, contrasts with the controlled intimacy of their teen years, suggesting a matured bond.

Rumors of a romantic rekindling swirl, fueled by their history and recent closeness. An insider told Star that “the spark between them is very obvious and very natural,” though both have remained coy. Holmes called working with Jackson “a testament to friendship” in her Instagram post, while Jackson’s past reflections on their enduring connection add intrigue. Their personal lives—Holmes’ divorce from Tom Cruise and Jackson’s split from Jodie Turner-Smith—further stoke speculation, though no official confirmation of a romance has emerged. Whether a publicity tactic or genuine affection, the ambiguity keeps fans breathless.

A Nostalgic Healing for Millennials

This reunion taps into a millennial craving for representation, as noted by cultural commentators. With Dawson’s Creek defining a generation’s coming-of-age, Happy Hours offers a chance to see beloved characters evolve beyond Capeside. The shift from teen drama to adult dramedy mirrors the audience’s own transitions, addressing themes of midlife love and resilience in a post-pandemic 2025. Busy Philipps, a former co-star, commented “we are seated” on Holmes’ post, amplifying the nostalgic fervor.

The casting choices reflect diversity and talent, with Wu and Parker bringing star power to support the leads. Holmes’ dual role as creator and star showcases her growth, while Jackson’s return to a lighter genre after The Affair’s intensity adds contrast. The project’s New York setting, with its iconic parks and streets, serves as a modern stage for their story, distinct from the coastal vibes of their past.

Critical Hype and Cultural Context

Though Happy Hours awaits release, the buzz is palpable. Industry outlets like Deadline and Vanity Fair have praised the project’s potential, with early set reports highlighting Holmes’ directorial finesse and the pair’s chemistry. Fans on Reddit’s r/popculturechat have hailed it as a “Roman Empire” moment, though some caution against overhyping a possible Hallmark-style outcome. The lack of a firm release date keeps anticipation simmering, with Netflix’s global reach poised to amplify its impact.

In 2025, a year reflecting on recovery and connection, Happy Hours aligns with trends like Nobody Wants This, catering to an audience seeking relatable romance. The inclusion of family dynamics and career struggles mirrors contemporary challenges, offering a narrative that feels both timeless and timely. Holmes’ control over the project ensures a personal touch, potentially avoiding the soapiness of their Dawson’s Creek roots.

Behind the Scenes: A Friendship Tested by Time

Holmes and Jackson’s history adds layers to their collaboration. Their brief 1990s romance, followed by years of friendship, provides a foundation for their on-screen dynamic. Jackson’s support during Holmes’ Dawson’s Creek tenure and her recent directorial projects suggest a trust that transcends their past. The involvement of their former castmates’ reactions—Philipps’ enthusiasm and Michelle Williams’ implied approval—reinforces a tight-knit circle, enhancing the project’s authenticity.

The filming process, captured in candid moments, reveals a lightness absent from their earlier work. Holmes’ casual ensembles—floral tops and jeans—pair with Jackson’s laid-back shirts, reflecting a shared comfort. This contrasts with the scripted intensity of their youth, hinting at a narrative that embraces vulnerability over drama.

Conclusion: A Breathless Journey Ahead

Happy Hours is more than a reunion; it’s a reimagining of love and legacy. Katie Holmes and Joshua Jackson’s return to the screen, fueled by their Dawson’s Creek roots and a new creative partnership, promises a steamy yet heartfelt exploration of second chances. Whether their chemistry ignites a lasting romance or remains a cinematic spark, the trilogy stands to leave audiences breathless, blending nostalgia with a modern tale of resilience. As filming continues, the world watches, eager to see if Joey and Pacey’s story finds a new chapter—one that could redefine their place in Hollywood history.