**Fans Eagerly Await Spaceballs Sequel with New Updates from Daphne Zuniga**
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The beloved sci-fi comedy franchise is experiencing a resurgence, with much excitement surrounding the upcoming sequel, *Spaceballs: The New One*, slated to hit cinemas on 23 April 2027. Daphne Zuniga, who played Princess Vespa in the original 1987 film, provided fans with an update during a panel discussion at the recent 90s Con held in Hartford, Connecticut.
Zuniga, now 63, shared the stage with her former *Melrose Place* co-stars as they reminisced about their time in the limelight. The panel, moderated by PEOPLE executive editor Breanne L. Heldman, served as a platform for fans to inquire about Zuniga’s return to the iconic role that made her a household name.
Responding to a fan’s question, Zuniga confirmed that production for *Spaceballs: The New One* had wrapped and expressed her enthusiasm about reuniting with original cast members. “Rick Moranis is back as Lord Dark Helmet, and Bill Pullman reprises his role as my husband. Lewis Pullman, Bill’s real-life son, plays our son, the prince, and Keke Palmer joins the cast as well,” she stated.
The new film promises to retain the charm of its predecessor, which lovingly parodied blockbuster sci-fi franchises, particularly *Star Wars*. Moranis’s portrayal of the inept Lord Dark Helmet remains one of the film’s standout roles, characterized by his oversized helmet and exaggerated persona. Zuniga hinted that his return, along with the original characters, would add a nostalgic touch to the sequel.
Significantly, the legendary Mel Brooks, the man behind the original *Spaceballs*, has been involved in the production of the new film. Zuniga revealed, “We filmed *Spaceballs: The New One* with Mel Brooks collaborating with the writers. His influence is significant throughout.” In a rather poignant note, she shared that Brooks, now 97, insisted on filming his part early on due to his age, saying, “You better film me now because I’m 100.”
The anticipation surrounding the sequel is palpable, with both newcomers and returning cast members set to bring new and familiar humour to the screen. At the *Spaceballs: The New One* panel during San Diego Comic-Con earlier this year, Moranis reflected on the surreal nature of reprising his character. “I kept having to pinch myself because I would look at Daphne, Bill, and all these young actors. I realised I was their age 39 years ago when we made this. And here we are now.”
His comments reflect an underlying theme of nostalgia and the passage of time that resonates with many fans, particularly those who grew up with the original film. The actor described the experience of donning the costume once more as feeling like being in a time warp, “it felt very strange to be honest with you. But it started to feel really good, and I really started to love it.”
Fans of the original *Spaceballs* will undoubtedly be eager to see how the sequel develops, particularly with the blend of classic humour and contemporary talent. The fact that the new film features a multi-generational cast, including Moranis and the younger Pullman, illustrates a bridging of past and present that is both intriguing and heartwarming.
With the film’s launch more than three years away, anticipation will likely continue to build, reigniting interest in the space comedy genre. The unique combination of nostalgia, a beloved cast, and Brooks’ creative genius means that *Spaceballs: The New One* could very well become a highlight for fans old and new come April 2027.
As excitement swells, Zuniga’s updates serve as a beacon for all who have fond memories of *Spaceballs*. With its original charm and new characters, the sequel seems poised to honour its legacy while boldly venturing into new comedic territories. For fans of the series, the wait is sure to be an exhilarating journey in itself.