Jillian Bell to make his directorial debut with ‘Summer of 69’ comedy for Hulu, starring Chloe Fineman

Actress Jillian Bell, known for her standout performances in Amazon’s dramedy Brittany Runs a Marathon and her Emmy-nominated writing on Saturday Night Live, is stepping behind the camera for her feature directorial debut. The project- Summer of 69, a vibrant American High comedy set to premiere on Hulu. And she’s not alone—Bell has assembled a star-studded cast, with none other than SNL alum Chloe Fineman leading the way.

In Summer of 69, we’re transported to the tumultuous world of high school, where an awkward senior (played by Fineman) hatches an audacious plan: hiring an exotic dancer to help her win over her long-time crush before graduation. But what begins as a quirky quest for love takes an unexpected turn, leading to a heartwarming exploration of friendship, self-confidence, and the rocky road to adulthood.
The film’s production team boasts an impressive lineup. Jeremy Garelick, Will Phelps, and Molle DeBartolo are at the helm, backed by associate producers Axelle Azoulay and Matt Sacca. Breanna Bell-Singer, Adam Goodman, Matt Skiena, and Lucas Carter round out the creative forces behind this exciting project. And with American High’s successful track record, including hits like Big Time Adolescence, The Binge, and Crush, anticipation is building for Summer of 69.
Bell, who has long harbored dreams of directing, expressed her enthusiasm for the film: “Telling a story about female friendship with a cast of the most talented and funny humans—it’s a dream come true.” Her transition from in-front-of-the-camera talent to behind-the-scenes visionary promises fresh perspectives and a unique voice in the entertainment industry.
But that’s not all—Bell’s acting career continues to flourish. In addition to her role in Reunion, a murder mystery comedy from Republic Pictures, she’s set to star in the Netflix dramedy Kinda Pregnant, alongside Amy Schumer. Her versatility shines through, whether she’s making us laugh or pulling at our heartstrings.
As for Chloe Fineman, her star continues to rise. With memorable appearances on Search Party and her voice work in Big Mouth, she’s a force to be reckoned with. Upcoming projects include Francis Ford Coppola’s Megalopolis, My Ex-Friend’s Wedding, and Peacock’s comedy series Laid