Jennifer Garner passes the '13 Going on 30' mantle to Emily Bader, calls her 'adorable'
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Jennifer Garner is ready to see a new generation step into Jenna Rink's shoes. More than two decades after starring in the beloved 2004 romantic comedy '13 Going on 30'.
Garner has shared her support for Emily Bader, who will lead Netflix's upcoming reimagining of the film. Rather than holding on to the iconic role, Garner welcomed the casting with enthusiasm and praised Bader, signaling her confidence in the new project's direction.
Her reaction offers one of the clearest endorsements yet from the original star as anticipation continues to build for Netflix's fresh take on the fan-favorite story.
Jennifer Garner says Emily Bader is ready to carry '13 Going on 30' forward
The actress, who starred as Jenna Rink opposite Mark Ruffalo's Matt Flamhaff in the original film, warmly welcomed Bader as the next actress to take on the story. "That little Emily, she's adorable," Garner said, expressing her excitement for the casting.
The 54-year-old also shared that she hopes the new adaptation stays true to what made the original so memorable while allowing the filmmakers to bring their own perspective. Garner also said she is happy to see '13 Going on 30' continue reaching new audiences, adding that the reboot also keeps the memory of the film's late director, Gary Winick, alive.
“I feel like the legacy of our director Gary Winick, who died of brain cancer after we wrapped that movie, (continues),” Garner exclusively told E News at the Los Angeles premiere of 'The Five-Star Weekend' on Wednesday, July 8. “It just makes me so happy.”
Although Garner is serving as an executive producer on Netflix's reimagining, she revealed she has not been told much about the story. “I don’t really know what it’s going to be,” the Juno actress confessed. “But I think people will have a blast watching it.”
Why '13 Going on 30' continues to be a beloved romantic comedy
Released in 2004, '13 Going on 30' follows 13-year-old Jenna Rink, who makes a birthday wish to be "thirty, flirty and thriving" and wakes up as her 30-year-old self. As she navigates adulthood, Jenna learns important lessons about friendship, love and staying true to herself while reconnecting with her childhood best friend, Matt.
The film became a fan favorite thanks to its heartfelt coming-of-age story, memorable performances, and blend of romance, comedy, and fantasy. Garner's portrayal of Jenna Rink remains one of the defining roles of her career, while Ruffalo's performance as Matt Flamhaff added to the movie's lasting appeal.
