Fans of the beloved teen drama Dawson's Creek were sent into a nostalgic frenzy this week as former co-stars and real-life exes Katie Holmes and Joshua Jackson were spotted filming together in New York. The pair, who famously played Joey Potter and Pacey Witter, shared a sweet hug on the Manhattan set of their new movie, Happy Hours, looking remarkably like their iconic characters from over two decades ago.
A Nostalgic On-Screen Reunion
The heartwarming reunion marks a significant moment for fans, as Holmes and Jackson first sparked excitement in July when they began shooting the film trilogy. Photographs from Wednesday's filming session show the duo smiling, laughing, and sharing an intimate hug as they strolled through the city streets. In one candid shot, Jackson is seen gazing intently at Holmes during an animated sidewalk conversation, while another captures them in a seemingly heated discussion after a night out.
Wrapped up against the winter chill, Holmes layered a striking red wool jacket over her various outfits for the shoot. The project, written and directed by Katie Holmes herself, focuses on childhood sweethearts who reconnect as adults—a plotline that bears a striking resemblance to the Joey and Pacey arc from Dawson's Creek.
From On-Screen Romance to Lasting Friendship
The actors' connection runs deep, extending beyond their roles in the hit show which ended in 2003. During the early years of Dawson's Creek, Holmes and Jackson struck up a real-life romance. Holmes famously told Rolling Stone in 1998 about her "first love," a relationship that has since evolved into a lasting friendship.
Announcing Happy Hours on Instagram last summer, Holmes gushed about the collaboration, writing: "I am so very grateful to be working again with so many of my wonderful friends on this film HAPPY HOURS. And working with Josh after so many years is a testament to friendship."
Since their split, both stars have led separate personal lives. Jackson was married to actress Jodie Turner-Smith from 2019 until their divorce in 2023. Holmes was married to Tom Cruise from 2006 to 2012.
Fan Excitement and Project Details
The reunion has sent longtime fans and former cast members into a state of delight. Busy Philipps, who played Audrey Liddle on Dawson's Creek, commented "We are seated" on the news, while fans flooded social media with exclamations of "Joey and Pacey forever!"
In addition to Holmes and Jackson, the Happy Hours cast features an impressive ensemble including:
- Mary-Louise Parker
- Constance Wu
- Joe Tippett
- John McGinty
- Donald Webber Jr.
The film continues shooting in Manhattan, promising to deliver a potent dose of nostalgia intertwined with a new story of rekindled love, masterminded by one of the show's most beloved stars.
