The long-awaited sequel to the beloved “The Princess Diaries” films has made headlines with recent updates from Anne Hathaway regarding its production. Hathaway, who captivated audiences as Mia Thermopolis in the original films, has reassured fans that progress is being made on “Princess Diaries 3.”
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The announcement of a third film in the “Princess Diaries” franchise was made in 2024, two decades after the first film premiered, which served as a significant turning point in Hathaway’s career. While the release date remains unconfirmed, Hathaway shared promising news during a recent interview on SiriusXM’s Radio Andy. She indicated that there has been a ‘story breakthrough’ which suggests that the creative team is moving in a positive direction for the project.
Hathaway mentioned that the script underwent a significant rewrite, leading to a fresh approach for the story. “We kind of had to start over with this new direction,” she stated. Despite the challenges, her enthusiasm for the project is evident, and she expressed confidence that this iteration of “Princess Diaries” will resonate with fans.
Currently, however, the timeline for filming is uncertain due to Hathaway’s pregnancy with her third child. The actress is already a mother to two sons, Jonathan and Jack, whom she shares with husband Adam Shulman. Hathaway humourously noted how her focus on welcoming a new baby has taken precedence over details regarding the film’s production schedule.
The first two instalments of “The Princess Diaries,” which were released in 2001 and 2004, featured several key cast members in pivotal roles. Alongside Hathaway, Julie Andrews portrayed the wise and elegant Queen of Genovia, while Heather Matarazzo played Mia’s loyal best friend Lilly. Héctor Elizondo also lent his charm to the role of Joe, Mia’s trusted confidant. Directed by Garry Marshall, both films became cultural touchstones for a generation.
In 2024, Disney appointed director Adele Lim, known for her work on “Joy Ride,” to helm the sequel. However, concrete updates about the film have been relatively scarce since the initial announcement. Producer Debra Martin Chase, who was involved in both previous films, provided some hope for eager fans in June, stating she was “more than hopeful” about moving forward soon.
Chase had expressed her intention for filming to commence in 2024 but noted that the timeline is still being finalised. “We’re intent upon making it happen. And we’re excited that people are excited,” she reiterated, signalling a collective determination from the team to deliver on the long-anticipated sequel.
In the second film, Mia’s journey culminates in her becoming Queen of Genovia, having successfully persuaded the parliament to allow her to ascend to the throne without being married. The film concluded with hints of a romance between Mia and the charming Nicholas Devereaux, played by Chris Pine, setting the stage for potential developments in the upcoming film.
While the cast for “Princess Diaries 3” has not yet been fully confirmed, there have been encouraging signs regarding Andrews’ return. At 90 years old, Andrews has openly expressed her willingness to reprise her role as Queen Clarisse. In a previous interview with Today, she remarked that she would be “very happy if we did do another one,” although she added a note of realism by saying she does not expect it to happen.
As fans eagerly await further news, the excitement surrounding “Princess Diaries 3” continues to build. The combination of nostalgia and new developments promises to reignite the charm and whimsy of the original films, making the wait worthwhile for devoted followers of Mia Thermopolis’ royal journey.