Nearly three decades after Waiting to Exhale (1995) became a cultural and cinematic milestone, social media has been buzzing with rumors of a sequel titled Waiting to Exhale 2 (2025), allegedly bringing back Angela Bassett, Loretta Devine, Lela Rochon, and introducing powerhouse stars like Regina King and Viola Davis. The whispers sparked immediate excitement, but what’s fact, and what’s just wishful thinking?
✨ The Legacy of the Original Film
Released in 1995, Waiting to Exhale, directed by Forest Whitaker and based on Terry McMillan’s novel, made history by portraying the love, struggles, and strength of four Black women. It was more than just a box-office hit; it became a cultural voice for women of color in Hollywood.
The film’s unforgettable soundtrack, led by Whitney Houston and other iconic artists, remains a timeless anthem of empowerment. To this day, Waiting to Exhale is celebrated as a groundbreaking story of friendship and resilience.
🔥 The Sequel Buzz
In recent months, social media posts have circulated claiming that Waiting to Exhale 2 will arrive in 2025, with a heartfelt storyline: honoring Whitney Houston’s character Bernadine while following Savannah, Gloria, and Robin into new chapters of love and self-discovery.
However, no official confirmation has been made by Hollywood. Reliable outlets such as Variety, Deadline, or IMDb have not reported any updates. For now, the so-called “sequel news” appears to be more of a fan-driven dream than a real production.
🎤 The Reality Behind the Scenes
What we do know: back in the 2010s, there were plans for a follow-up film based on Terry McMillan’s novel Getting to Happy. Angela Bassett and the original cast were expected to return, with Forest Whitaker likely directing again. Sadly, after Whitney Houston’s passing in 2012, the project stalled indefinitely.
Earlier this year, in 2025, actress Lela Rochon appeared at the NAACP Image Awards, where she shared heartfelt memories of working with Whitney Houston during the original film — a poignant reminder of its lasting impact, and a moment that reignited fans’ longing for a sequel.
💠The Fans’ Hope
While Waiting to Exhale 2 (2025) hasn’t been confirmed, the buzz surrounding it highlights one undeniable truth: audiences still yearn for the return of the women who once inspired them.
In an era where Hollywood is increasingly embracing diverse stories, a revival of Waiting to Exhale — whether as a film, a series, or even a tribute project — is far from impossible.
👉 Until then, Waiting to Exhale continues to live on in the hearts of fans, as a timeless reminder that friendship, love, and resilience are values that never fade.
đź“ş Want to revisit Savannah, Gloria, Robin, and Bernadine’s most iconic moments? Watch this fan-favorite compilation here:
