Breakout Saturday Night Live star Ashley Padilla has officially joined the cast of The Catch, an upcoming romantic comedy from Universal Pictures. Padilla, who debuted on SNL during its 50th season in 2024, will star alongside Emma Stone and Chris Pine in the film, which is scheduled for release on May 21, 2027.
From SNL Stardom to the Big Screen
Ashley Padilla’s transition to feature films marks a significant milestone in her career. Having honed her craft as a member of the Los Angeles comedy group The Groundlings and serving as an assistant to Diane Keaton, Padilla joined the cast of Saturday Night Live in 2024. Her performance quickly garnered critical acclaim; in April 2026, The New York Times highlighted her “actorly nuance and subtlety” and her unique ability to master the “virtuosic deployment of the pregnant pause.” The Catch represents her first major studio feature debut.
Before her rise on SNL, Ashley Padilla worked as an assistant to legendary actress Diane Keaton.
What to Expect from The Catch
While specific plot details remain under wraps, the film is described by sources as a blend of Bull Durham and Notting Hill. In this romantic comedy, Emma Stone is set to portray the “most hated woman in baseball.” According to production reports, Ashley Padilla has been cast to play Stone’s sister. Filming is slated to begin this July in New York.
The Creative Team Behind the Project
The project brings together a notable group of producers and writers. The script’s most recent draft was penned by Jen Statsky and Travis Helwig, building upon an original spec script by Patrick Kang and Michael Levin. The film is being produced by Emma Stone, Dave McCary, and Ali Herting through their company, Fruit Tree, in collaboration with Universal. Additionally, Shawn Levy and Dan Levine are producing via their 21 Laps banner, with Michael H. Weber also serving as a producer.
When tracking studio talent, look for the production houses involved. Fruit Tree’s first-look deal with Universal is a key indicator of the studio’s investment in this specific creative team.
Production Oversight and Development
Universal Pictures is managing the development of the film with a high level of executive oversight. Senior executive vice president of production development Erik Baiers and director of production development Jacqueline Garell are overseeing the project for the studio. The film is helmed by director Dave McCary, who previously worked as a segment director on SNL during the 2010s.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will The Catch be released in theaters?
Universal has officially scheduled the release of The Catch for May 21, 2027.
Who is directing the film?
The film is directed by Dave McCary, who is known for his work as a segment director on Saturday Night Live.
What is Ashley Padilla’s role in the movie?
Ashley Padilla, who joined the SNL cast in 2024, will play the sister of the character portrayed by Emma Stone.
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