Elle Woods is back (in high school!)—yes, the 'Legally Blonde' prequel series is arriving

If you thought Harvard was hard… high school was harder. Get ready to bend, snap, and throw it all the way back because Prime Video is serving us 'Elle'—a prequel series based on our favourite pink-clad overachiever, Elle Woods. Before she was taking on Harvard Law with a “What, like it’s hard?” attitude, Elle was navigating teen drama, questionable crushes, and the beginnings of girl boss greatness.

Set to premiere in summer 2026, the series promises to unpack the experiences that shaped Elle into the confident, compassionate (and yes, fashion-forward) queen we all stan. From a fresh-faced cast to Reese Witherspoon’s personal seal of approval, here’s everything you need to know about the series bringing Elle Woods back into our lives—one sparkly heel at a time.

Meet the teenage Elle Woods

Stepping into Elle Woods’ stylish shoes is newcomer Lexi Minetree. And her casting was revealed in the most on-brand way possible—through a surprise video call from Reese Witherspoon herself.

As the original Elle and now executive producer of the prequel, Witherspoon has been closely involved in shaping this next chapter—and really, who better to pass the baton (or shall we say, the pink Prada bag)? In true Elle fashion, she welcomed Minetree into the Legally Blonde legacy with all the warmth, sparkle, and enthusiasm you’d expect.

Minetree’s portrayal aims to capture the heart of Elle’s early years: ambition, charm, and an uncanny ability to make a statement—both in court and in couture.

The supporting cast (including a ‘90s icon!)

It’s not just Elle who’ll have you glued to the screen. The series features a stellar supporting cast, starting with June Diane Raphael and Tom Everett Scott as Elle’s effortlessly cool parents, Eva and Wyatt Woods; while rounding out her group of classmates are Chandler Kinney, Gabrielle Policano, Jacob Moskovitz, and Zac Looker.

But perhaps the most talked-about casting? James Van Der Beek (yes, Dawson himself!) returning to the screen as Dean Wilson—a slick mayoral candidate and school superintendent. It’s his first major role since sharing his cancer diagnosis, and fans are rallying behind his powerful comeback.

Behind the scenes

Elle is helmed by creators Laura Kittrell and Caroline Dries, with Witherspoon producing through her company, Hello Sunshine. Inspired by the success of Gen Z-friendly reboots (Wednesday, XO, Kitty, That ‘90s Show), Witherspoon saw the perfect opportunity to explore Elle’s backstory: what shaped her, who inspired her, and how she became the confident woman we cheered for in court.

What to expect

Set in the vibrant world of 1990s high school life, Elle will follow a teenage Woods as she discovers her love for law, stands up for what she believes in, and masters the art of balancing heart, hustle, and highlighter. Expect early heartbreaks, unexpected friendships, and fashion that slays and speaks. While the series promises to capture the essence of the original films, it also aims to stand on its own, offering fresh narratives, character developments, and the same unshakeable Elle energy.

A legacy continues

As we count down to summer 2026, Elle is shaping up to be more than just a prequel—it’s a love letter to the fans who can quote every line and a fresh intro for those just discovering their inner Elle. Because whether she’s in a courtroom or a classroom, one thing’s for sure: Elle Woods understood the assignment.

Images: Getty

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