Elle, Prime Video’s upcomingLegally Blondeprequel series, has now cast the titular character’s mom. The series will explore Elle Woods' formative high school years before she’s eventually compelled to attend Harvard Law School. Starring Lexi Minetree as the young Elle, the show is helmed by creator Laura Kittrell and executive produced by Reese Witherspoon, who originally brought the pink-loving legal powerhouse to life in the 2001 film and its 2003 sequelRed, White, & Blonde.Elleis expectedto begin production between March and July 2025.

According toDeadline,June Diane Raphael has been cast to play Elle’s mom, Eva, a sophisticated and meticulous woman who takes pride in maintaining a flawless image. The role was originally minor in the movies, played by Tane McClure, but the prequel series is set to expand upon the family dynamic behind Elle’s unrelenting drive and chic fashion sense.

Split feature image showing Serena McGuire, Elle Woods and Margot in Legally Blonde.

What This Means For Elle

June Diane Raphael Fleshes Out The Cast

Raphael’s casting is another significant step towards rounding out theEllecast.She has led a variety of TV comedy programs from Adult Swim’sNTSF:SD:SUV::to the spoof reality dating seriesBurning Love. In 2015, she took on the role of Brianna Hanson, the sharp and fiery CEO of a successful cosmetics company and the eldest daughter of Grace inNetflix’s hit comedy showGrace and Frankie. While Elle’s mom in theLegally Blondemovies was skeptical of her daughter’s legal ambitions,Raphael’s Eva is set to be a high-powered female mentor for her to look up to.

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The announcement of Raphael’s casting comes shortlyafter Lexi Minetree was confirmed as the young Ellethrough an open-call audition process. Though a rising star, Minetree has quickly built an impressive resume over the past two years with the 2023 Lifetime thrillerThe Paramedic Who Stalked Me, followed byThe Murdagh Murders,Crowdsource Murder, and the Soviet-era dramaSerov. It’ll be her first time working with Reese Witherspoon, unlike June Diane Raphael, who made an appearance in two episodes ofthe Witherspoon-ledThe Morning Showfrom Apple TV+.

Reese Witherspoon as Elle Woods Smiling in a Salon in Legally Blonde 2 Red White and Blonde

Our Take On The Latest Casting News For Elle

It’s A Strong Start For Elle’s Journey

June Diane Raphael’s casting is sure to bring even more spunk toElle, adding a seasoned comedic touch to the prequel series. With both Elle and her mother now filled, pre-production is gaining momentum. The series is slated to premiere on Prime Video by late 2025 or early 2026, meaning more supporting roles will likely be cast soon. As the ensemble comes together, the foundation is being laid for an entertaining and modern take on Elle Woods’ origin story.

Source:Deadline

Elle

Elle is a television series that follows the life of Elle Evans, a high school student who becomes popular after being kissed by the school’s star basketball player, Noah Flynn. As Elle navigates her newfound fame, she must contend with the complexities of relationships, friendships, and her own identity.