Jennifer Garner Leads Emotional New Drama in The Five-Star Weekend– Here’s What You Need to Know

The adaptation of Elin Hilderbrand’s bestselling novel promises a heartfelt exploration of loss, friendship, and self-discovery.

Jennifer Garner to Star in and Executive Produce New Peacock Drama

Peacock has officially announced the series pickup of The Five-Star Weekend, a highly anticipated drama starring and executive produced by acclaimed actress Jennifer Garner. Garner, a Golden Globe winner and Emmy Award nominee, continues her impressive career with this adaptation of Elin Hilderbrand’s New York Times bestselling novel of the same name. Known for her iconic roles in Alias, The Last Thing He Told Me, and Yes Day, Garner’s involvement in this series promises to bring both star power and emotional depth to the screen.

A Compelling Story of Grief and Renewal

The Five-Star Weekend follows Hollis Shaw, a beloved food influencer celebrated for her delectable recipes, impeccable sense of style, and warm persona. However, when a sudden and devastating loss shatters her carefully curated life, Hollis is forced to confront the cracks in her seemingly perfect world.

Her grief exposes deeper issues: a strained marriage, a complicated relationship with her daughter, and an overreliance on external validation from her social media followers. In an effort to rediscover herself, Hollis invites friends from different stages of her life to her Nantucket home for a transformative weekend. The group—a childhood friend, a companion from her twenties, a confidant from her thirties, and an unexpected “fifth star”—embark on an emotional journey, revealing long-held secrets and pushing personal boundaries.

Set against the stunning coastal backdrop of Nantucket, the series promises not only heartfelt drama but also themes of healing, self-discovery, and the power of female friendships.

Creative Team Brings Expertise and Heart to the Project

The series boasts a powerhouse creative team:

• Bekah Brunstetter (This Is Us, Maid): Creator, writer, and executive producer, known for her ability to craft deeply emotional, character-driven stories.
• Beth Schacter (Billions, Super Pumped): Writer and executive producer, bringing a sharp, dynamic edge to the narrative.
• Sue Naegle and Ali Krug (Pam & Tommy, The Staircase): Executive producers under their Dinner Party Productions banner, ensuring the series maintains high production values and authenticity.
• Elin Hilderbrand, the celebrated author of the source material (The Perfect Couple), also serves as an executive producer, offering her unique perspective to the adaptation.

The series is produced by UCP, a division of Universal Studio Group, which has a proven track record of delivering premium content.

Jennifer Garner’s Continued Evolution in Hollywood

Garner’s involvement as both star and executive producer reflects her continued evolution as a leading force in Hollywood. Known for her ability to bring warmth and complexity to her roles, she has recently drawn praise for her performances in Apple TV+’s The Last Thing He Told Me and Netflix’s Yes Day. Garner’s dual role in The Five-Star Weekend not only highlights her versatility but also cements her place as a powerhouse both on and off-screen.

Adapting a Beloved Novel for Television

Elin Hilderbrand’s The Five-Star Weekend captivated readers with its relatable characters, emotional depth, and picturesque setting. The novel, released in 2023, became an instant bestseller and a fan favorite. With Hilderbrand serving as an executive producer, fans can expect the series to remain true to the book while offering fresh nuances that only television can provide.

The decision to adapt the novel into a series rather than a film allows the story’s themes—grief, friendship, and personal growth—to unfold in greater detail. The picturesque Nantucket setting will also play a significant role, with its serene beaches and elegant homes mirroring the beauty and turbulence of the characters’ inner lives.

A Series That Promises Heart and Depth

With its emotionally charged premise, stunning coastal visuals, and a stellar cast and creative team, The Five-Star Weekend is shaping up to be one of Peacock’s most compelling dramas. Fans of character-driven stories, Jennifer Garner’s work, and Elin Hilderbrand’s novels can anticipate a series that resonates on multiple levels.

What’s Next?

While an official release date has yet to be announced, excitement is already building. Peacock is positioning The Five-Star Weekend as a signature addition to its growing slate of original content, appealing to viewers who crave meaningful, relatable storytelling.

Stay tuned for updates as Peacock unveils more details about the cast, release date, and sneak peeks. In the meantime, fans can revisit Hilderbrand’s bestselling novel to prepare for what promises to be an unforgettable adaptation.