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The entertainment world is buzzing with anticipation as Netflix prepares to release JAY KELLY, a self-described heartbreaking comedy that brings together Hollywood heavyweights George Clooney and Adam Sandler for the first time. While this powerhouse pairing alone would generate significant excitement, the film’s appeal is further enhanced by the inclusion of two rising Irish talents in its impressively stacked ensemble cast.

Dublin native Eve Hewson and Northern Ireland’s Thaddea Graham are set to shine alongside the leading men in what promises to be one of Netflix’s major awards contenders this year. Hewson, daughter of U2 frontman Bono, has been steadily building an impressive acting resume in recent years, particularly through her acclaimed performance in Sharon Horgan’s darkly comedic hit BAD SISTERS, where she previously worked with Graham.

This Netflix project marks yet another significant step in Hewson’s flourishing career as she continues to emerge from her famous father’s shadow and establish herself as a formidable talent in her own right. The film, directed by indie darling Noah Baumbach of MARRIAGE STORY and THE SQUID AND THE WHALE fame, features Clooney in the titular role of Jay Kelly, a man who paradoxically seems known by everyone except himself. Though Netflix remains characteristically tight-lipped about plot specifics, they’ve tantalized audiences with a cryptic tagline:

Everybody knows Jay Kelly, but Jay Kelly doesn’t know himself. The stellar cast also includes Billy Crudup, Laura Dern, Riley Keough, Patrick Wilson, Jim Broadbent, Emily Mortimer, and Greta Gerwig. Following Netflix’s established awards season strategy, JAY KELLY will receive a limited theatrical release beginning November 14, 2025, before arriving on the streaming platform on December 5. For Baumbach, this project represents a pivot from his previous Netflix venture WHITE NOISE, reportedly a $150 million production that failed to meet expectations.

This new film, set between New York City and London, appears to be more aligned with the romantic comedy format that Netflix audiences have consistently embraced. With its fall release timing, industry insiders expect JAY KELLY to make appearances at prestigious film festivals including Venice, Toronto, Telluride, and New York, further cementing its position as a potential awards contender and highlighting Hewson’s continued ascent in Hollywood’s competitive landscape.