Bootleg Betty
What’s the story behind Bette Midler’s Cut Off?
By Mister D
May 4, 2026
Short answer: Cut Off was pulled from Warner Bros.’ July 2026 release calendar after an unimpressive test screening and because no marketing materials had been released, making the delay low?risk. The studio has not canceled it—just removed it from the schedule while they reassess.
? What actually happened
Warner Bros. quietly removed Jonah Hill’s comedy Cut Off—co?starring Kristen Wiig, Bette Midler, Nathan Lane, and others—from its July 17, 2026 release slot. The film is now officially undated.
Two major factors drove the decision:
- A weak test screening.
Multiple outlets reported that a recent audience test screening “wasn’t encouraging,” which often signals pacing, tone, or structural issues that need reworking. - Zero promotional rollout.
No trailer, no stills, no poster—nothing. Because the studio hadn’t begun marketing, pulling it caused no reputational or financial damage, making a delay the easiest option.
? Why this matters for Bette Midler fans
Bette’s involvement—announced during fall 2025 production—was a big draw for Bootleg Betty watchers. But the removal from the schedule doesn’t reflect on her performance; it’s tied to the film’s overall readiness and reception, not cast issues.
Studios often delay comedies when:
- the tone isn’t landing in early cuts
- reshoots or re?edits are needed
- they want a better release window
- they’re waiting for a more favorable marketing cycle
Given that Cut Off is positioned as a “classic comedy” throwback in the vein of Step Brothers, Trading Places, and Clueless, Hill may be refining the edit to better match that promise.
? What’s the story behind the film itself?
The premise:
Two wealthy siblings (Hill & Wiig) are suddenly cut off financially and must fend for themselves for the first time. Bette Midler appears in the ensemble cast alongside Nathan Lane, Camila Cabello, Adriana Barraza, and Chelsea Peretti.
Production timeline highlights:
- Announced March 2025
- Filmed in California starting September 2025
- Bette Midler & Nathan Lane joined during principal photography
- Test screening held early 2026
- Removed from July 2026 release calendar in May 2026
? So is it canceled?
No.
Every source indicates the removal is temporary, and insiders expect a new release date once the studio decides how to reposition it.
