The streets of New York City have been buzzing with excitement as Katie Holmes and Joshua Jackson, the beloved stars of Dawson’s Creek, reunite for a new cinematic venture that has fans swooning and speculating. Their on-screen chemistry as Joey Potter and Pacey Witter captivated audiences in the late ’90s and early 2000s, and now, over two decades later, the duo is back together for the romantic dramedy trilogy Happy Hours. But it’s not just their on-screen reunion that’s making headlines—whispers of private meetups and a rekindled connection have sent the internet into a frenzy, with fans wondering if this is the real-life love story they’ve been dreaming of. As one insider put it, “That’s what audiences have never seen on screen,” hinting at a dynamic that transcends their scripted roles.
For those who grew up watching Dawson’s Creek, the reunion of Holmes and Jackson is nothing short of a cultural phenomenon. The show, which aired from 1998 to 2003, was a cornerstone of millennial television, with its heartfelt storytelling and iconic love triangle between Joey, Pacey, and Dawson Leery. Holmes and Jackson’s characters shared a romance that felt raw, authentic, and deeply emotional, making them one of the most celebrated TV couples of all time. Their real-life romance during the early years of the show only added fuel to the fire, with Holmes once describing Jackson as her “first love” in a 1998 interview, a sentiment that still resonates with fans today.
Now, in 2025, the pair is collaborating on Happy Hours, a trilogy that Holmes is writing, directing, and starring in alongside Jackson. The story follows two former sweethearts who reconnect as adults, navigating the complexities of careers, family, and the pursuit of love. The premise alone feels like a nod to their Dawson’s Creek days, but with a mature twist that reflects the challenges of adulthood. Filming has been underway in New York City, and paparazzi photos have captured the two in moments that blur the line between their characters and reality. From high-fiving on set to sharing quiet conversations during breaks, their chemistry is undeniable, sparking speculation about whether their connection goes beyond professional camaraderie.
The excitement surrounding their reunion is palpable, especially among fans who have long championed the “Joey and Pacey” romance. Social media platforms are flooded with nostalgic posts, with fans sharing clips of their favorite Dawson’s Creek moments and expressing hope that Holmes and Jackson might be rekindling their past romance. The duo’s history adds an extra layer of intrigue: they dated briefly in 1998, during the early seasons of Dawson’s Creek, and have remained close friends ever since. Their bond has endured through major life changes—Holmes’ high-profile marriage to Tom Cruise and Jackson’s marriage to Jodie Turner-Smith, both of which ended in divorce. Now, with both stars single, fans can’t help but wonder if the timing is right for a second chance at love.
On set, Holmes and Jackson have been spotted in scenes that hint at the emotional depth of Happy Hours. One particularly evocative moment captured Jackson pushing a stroller while Holmes leaned in close, suggesting their characters may share a family-oriented storyline. These images have only fueled speculation, with fans dissecting every glance and gesture for signs of real-life affection. Off set, reports of private meetups have added to the buzz. The two have reportedly been seen exploring New York City together, often in disguise to avoid attention. These clandestine outings evoke the kind of romantic narrative that Dawson’s Creek fans adore, blending nostalgia with the promise of something new.
What makes this reunion so compelling is the way it bridges past and present. For Holmes, Happy Hours is a passion project that showcases her growth as a filmmaker. Having already directed films like Alone Together and Rare Objects, she brings a seasoned perspective to this trilogy, which promises to explore love and loss with nuance and heart. Jackson, known for his roles in shows like Fringe and Doctor Odyssey, brings his signature charm and emotional intensity to the project. Together, they’re poised to deliver performances that resonate with both longtime fans and new audiences.
The cultural impact of their reunion cannot be overstated. For millennials, Dawson’s Creek was more than just a TV show—it was a touchstone that shaped their understanding of love, friendship, and growing up. The Joey-Pacey romance, in particular, struck a chord with its depiction of two imperfect people finding their way to each other. Seeing Holmes and Jackson together again feels like a full-circle moment, a chance to revisit those formative emotions while exploring new stories. The trilogy’s focus on reconnecting as adults mirrors the journey of its audience, many of whom are now navigating their own complex lives.
Despite the excitement, both Holmes and Jackson have kept their personal lives private, leaving much to the imagination. Their public interactions are warm but professional, with Holmes describing their collaboration as “a testament to friendship” in a recent social media post. Yet, the chemistry that made them icons in the ’90s is still evident, and fans are eager to see how it translates to the big screen. The phrase “That’s what audiences have never seen on screen” suggests that Happy Hours will offer a fresh perspective on their dynamic, perhaps revealing layers of their connection that have yet to be explored.
As production continues, the anticipation for Happy Hours grows. The trilogy promises to be a heartfelt exploration of love and reconnection, with Holmes and Jackson at the helm. Whether their off-screen relationship evolves into something more remains a mystery, but for now, their reunion is a gift to fans who have never stopped rooting for Joey and Pacey—or Katie and Joshua. As they bring their characters to life in New York City, they’re also rekindling a spark that has endured for over two decades, proving that some love stories, whether on screen or off, never truly fade.
