Lexi Minetree Leads Amazon's 8-Episode Elle Prequel, With Season 2 Already Shot

Q: With mixed reviews before its debut, why did Amazon film Season 2 of its 'Legally Blonde' prequel?

Amazon filmed Season 2 of “Elle” because the renewal was made before the public had a chance to judge Season 1. Prime Video renewed the “Legally Blonde” prequel in January 2026, months ahead of its July 1 premiere, so the decision was not a reaction to the mixed reviews that later emerged. By the time critics weighed in and the show posted a modest Rotten Tomatoes score, Season 2 had already been shot. The early pickup reflected Amazon MGM Studios’ confidence in the project’s commercial and creative potential. The series comes with strong built-in brand recognition from “Legally Blonde,” Reese Witherspoon’s direct involvement as an executive producer, and backing from Hello Sunshine. Amazon executives said the second-season order showed their belief in the show’s creative vision and the team behind it. There were also practical reasons to move quickly. “Elle” is designed as a youth-oriented prequel centered on a teenage Elle Woods in 1995, and filming seasons close together helps preserve continuity with a young cast. It also lets Amazon capitalize on the franchise’s 25th-anniversary momentum and position the show as a multi-generational title for longtime fans and younger viewers. So the short answer is that Amazon was betting on the franchise, the producers, and the long-term audience appeal of “Elle” before reviews arrived—not responding to them afterward.

3 articles · Updated · Who What Wear · Jun 30

Lexi Minetree said Amazon Prime Video's "Elle" premieres July 1 with eight episodes, introducing Elle Woods in 1995 high school before Harvard and following her move from Bel Air to Seattle.
The 25-year-old actress said she won the role after an open-call audition among thousands of submissions, recreating Elle's Harvard admission video in a self-produced tape.
Minetree said Reese Witherspoon has stayed closely involved, sending clips and voice memos to help shape a younger Elle who keeps the character's warmth, confidence and intelligence.
Season 2 has already been completed, Minetree said, letting viewers avoid a long wait if the "Legally Blonde" prequel connects with fans after launch.