After a ten-year hiatus, Cameron Diaz, now 52, continues her surprising comeback with Bad Day, an action‑comedy set to premiere on Netflix. This marks her second major film appearance since returning with Back in Action alongside Jamie Foxx earlier this year.
The narrative of Bad Day,followsDiaz who portrays a single mom caught in a whirlwind of chaos as she tries heroically to keep “one little promise” to her daughter on what becomes the worst day of her life. The story is said to echo the tension of Joel Schumacher’s 1993 drama Falling Down, but with a lighter, comedic twist.
The film is directed by Jake Szymanski (Jury Duty, Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates) and scripted by Laura Solon, known for Office Christmas Party and Let It Snow. Beau Bauman of Good One Productions (who also produced Back in Action) is producing, alongside Solon and Mark Moran as executive producers. Filming is scheduled to start in fall 2025, primarily in New York and New Jersey, with principal photography expected through early 2026
Diaz initially stepped away from acting in 2014, focusing on family, authored The Longevity Book, and co-founded Avaline wine. Her return began with Back in Action, released January 17, 2025, which soon became Netflix’s most‑watched English‑language film debut of the year. In addition to Bad Day, Diaz is also confirmed to return as Princess Fiona in Shrek 5, set to hit screens around December 2026.
Netflix seems eager to harness Diaz’s enduring star power, engaging her in a two‑movie deal. Though some critics felt Back in Action didn’t live up to its promise, Diaz’s presence and on‑screen chemistry with Foxx garnered significant attention. Her shift towards more “mom‑centric” comedies like Bad Day may signal a fresh, charming perspective on her evolving screen persona.
Bad Day signals a deliberate, strategic choice in Diaz’s return, leaning into roles that blend humor, action, and heart. With a capable creative team and Netflix’s robust backing, the film is poised to spotlight Diaz in a career stage seldom visible in major studio offerings today.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter
