Hollywood, July 2025 – Remember Manny Jacinto, the lovable Jason Mendoza from The Good Place? Well, get ready to see him in a whole new light! He’s landed a major role in Disney’s Freakier Friday, the sequel to the iconic body-swap comedy. He plays the fiancé of none other than Lindsay Lohan’s character, Anna Coleman. The movie hits theaters on August 8, 2025. It promises even more chaotic fun, this time with four generations swapping bodies!
Since The Good Place, Manny’s been proving he’s got serious acting chops. He has appeared in everything from Nine Perfect Strangers to Top Gun: Maverick and even The Acolyte. In Freakier Friday, he’s Eric Davies, a sweet British chef and single dad who’s about to marry Anna. But, of course, things get a little… complicated when the body-swapping shenanigans start with Manny Jacinto in the mix!
“Pinch-Me” Moment
Manny himself is still a little star-struck! As he told The Hollywood Reporter, playing Anna’s fiancé feels “incredible.” He added, “I was the kid who watched the original Freaky Friday in the theater… never would have thought I’d be acting opposite Lindsay.” And yet, here he is, Manny Jacinto stepping into Hollywood’s spotlight.
But Eric isn’t just there for comic relief. He’s a genuinely caring guy who’s trying to navigate the craziness. He’s also a supportive partner to Anna. Plus, Sophia Hammons, who plays his daughter in the film, has brought a real depth to their father-daughter relationship through their work together.
Breaking Down Stereotypes
Director Nisha Ganatra is back for the sequel. She is making a point to update some of the outdated stereotypes from the original, especially when it comes to Asian representation. Manny, who was born in the Philippines and grew up in Canada, is totally on board with that vision. Manny Jacinto’s role exemplifies this new wave of representation.
He mentioned that knowing Nisha was directing, he knew they had “a captain who was very much aware of those archetypes.”
Good news: that controversial fortune cookie trigger from the 2003 movie is gone! The film includes some cool nods to representation, with original cast members Rosalind Chao and Lucille Soong making cameo appearances.
A Big Win for Manny (and Representation!)
Landing this romantic lead opposite a Hollywood icon like Lindsay Lohan is a huge moment for Manny. For Manny Jacinto, he’s proving he can do more than just play the “handsome dope” – he’s got range, charisma, and a real grounded presence.
For audiences everywhere, Manny’s casting is a sign that things are changing in Hollywood. We’re finally seeing more inclusive leading men in mainstream comedies and beyond.
So, mark your calendars! Freakier Friday, directed by Nisha Ganatra and produced by Disney, arrives in theaters on August 8, 2025. Get ready for a fun, nostalgic, and totally updated take on a classic featuring Manny Jacinto!
