Netflix’s holiday lineup just got a major boost — Jared Padalecki and Leighton Meester are teaming up for Guarding Stars, a fake-dating rom-com set to hit screens this November. If you’re a fan of Supernatural or Gossip Girl, this crossover pairing alone is reason enough to mark your calendar.
Here’s the full breakdown of release date, plot, and cast.
When Does Guarding Stars Release On Netflix?
Netflix has confirmed Guarding Stars (formerly titled The Bodyguard) will premiere on November 18, 2026, slotting it right into the platform’s festive movie lineup.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Release Date | November 18, 2026 |
| Genre | Holiday Romantic Comedy |
| Director | Elizabeth Allen Rosenbaum (Ginny & Georgia) |
| Based On | The Bodyguard by Katherine Center (2022 novel) |
| Filming Location | Calgary & Vancouver, Canada |
| Filming Dates | Dec 4, 2025 – Feb 17, 2026 |
What’s The Plot?
The story follows Hannah Brooks, an executive protection agent reeling from a breakup and personal loss, who’s assigned to guard Hollywood heartthrob Jack Stapleton. After a stalker scare, Jack — hiding out at his family’s ranch — asks Hannah to pose as his girlfriend instead of his bodyguard so his ailing mother won’t worry. What follows is a classic close-quarters, slow-burn holiday romance.
Fans of the book should note one change: the novel is set in Texas, but the film moves the setting to Montana.
Who’s In The Cast?
Leading the film are Jared Padalecki as Jack Stapleton and Leighton Meester as Hannah Brooks. Padalecki is best known for Supernatural and Walker, while Meester is a Gossip Girl icon also appearing in Season 2 of Nobody Wants This.
They’re joined by a stacked supporting cast including Andie MacDowell, Toby Sandeman, CM Punk, and singer Ava Max, among others.
The project is produced by Gina Matthews (13 Going on 30) through Little Engine Productions, alongside Readymade Productions and Tremblant Productions. Notably, Genevieve Padalecki — Jared’s real-life wife — is also on board as a producer.
Where Does It Fit In Netflix’s Holiday Schedule?
With production wrapped and post-production completed by mid-March 2026, Guarding Stars is fully on track for its November release, right at the start of Netflix’s busy holiday movie season.
For more Netflix release dates, cast reveals, and streaming updates, check out related coverage on TechnoSports.
