Nearly three decades after Waiting to Exhale became one of the most beloved films in American cinema, rumors about a sequel titled “Waiting to Exhale 2 (2026)” began spreading across social media. However, when looking deeper into official information from the author, the director, and the studios previously involved, the real picture is entirely different: the sequel has not been greenlit, and details about a 2026 release date do not appear in any official documents.
The legacy of the original film
Released in 1995 under the direction of Forest Whitaker, Waiting to Exhale—based on the novel by Terry McMillan—quickly became a classic. The film made its mark with an emotional story about friendship, love, and the strength of women, brought to life by the legendary cast: Whitney Houston, Angela Bassett, Loretta Devine, and Lela Rochon. Its success has made fans continuously hope for another chapter.
The attempt to create a sequel – and why it never materialized
Right after author Terry McMillan released the novel Getting to Happy (2010) — the continuation of the original story — a film project based on the book was developed. Forest Whitaker and the original cast were even reported to return.
However, after the sudden passing of Whitney Houston in 2012, the entire plan was disrupted. Producers and even McMillan herself confirmed that continuing the film without one of its central characters was extremely difficult. Since then, the sequel in film form has made no significant progress and, according to many sources, has been nearly permanently halted.
A new direction: The TV series project replacing the sequel
Instead of making Waiting to Exhale 2, Hollywood has chosen another path: a television series reboot developed by Lee Daniels — a producer behind many notable projects.
This project is not a direct continuation of the original film, but a refreshed version focusing on new characters and stories of a modern generation. Sisters Attica Locke and Tembi Locke joined the writing team, while Anthony Hemingway was chosen as director. However, the series has yet to announce an official release date.
“Waiting to Exhale 2 (2026)” – Only an unconfirmed rumor
Based on all information released by studios, film media, and the original author:
-
There is no official announcement of a film titled “Waiting to Exhale 2.”
-
No 2026 release date has been confirmed.
-
Any “poster” or “trailer” circulating online is not a product of the studio or production team.
Instead, the only project related to this franchise currently in development is the television reboot — not a new film.
Conclusion
Waiting to Exhale remains an iconic film of the 1990s, and the desire from fans to see a sequel is completely understandable. However, as of now, “Waiting to Exhale 2 (2026)” remains only a rumor. If there are any changes from the producers or studios, new information will certainly be widely announced.
See Waiting to Exhale :