Get Ready to Reignite Your Inner Princess: The Beloved Classic Series is Back!
In a move that’s leaving fans of all ages enchanted and eager for more, Anne Hathaway has just announced the long-awaited return of a beloved classic – and it’s a tale as old as time. The actress, who brought the iconic role of Mia Thermopolis to life in the original ‘The Princess Diaries’ films, has confirmed that a trilogy is in the works, giving audiences a chance to revisit the magical world of Genovia once again.
The Fairy Tale Continues: Anne Hathaway Announces ‘The Princess Diaries’ Trilogy
Actress Anne Hathaway has announced that she will be reprising her role as Mia Thermopolis in the highly anticipated third installment of ‘The Princess Diaries’ trilogy. The news was shared on Hathaway’s Instagram account, where she posted a photo with the caption, “Miracles happen. Back to Genovia.” (KRON)
Hathaway also tagged Disney, Adele Lim, and Somewhere Pictures in the post, confirming the involvement of these production companies in the new film. In addition, she stated, “The fairy tale continues.” (KRON)
Background of the ‘Princess Diaries’ Franchise
The ‘Princess Diaries’ franchise was first released in 2001, directed by Garry Marshall. The film follows the story of Mia Thermopolis, a shy San Franciscan girl who discovers she is the heir to a throne in the European country of Genovia. The movie was a critical and commercial success, creating multiple cultural landmarks, including Mia’s childhood home in the Excelsior District and a Pacific Heights mansion. (Disney)
The sequel, ‘The Princess Diaries: Royal Engagement,’ was released in 2004, also directed by Garry Marshall. The film follows Mia as she navigates her role as a princess and prepares to take the throne after her grandmother’s abdication. The sequel was also a commercial success and helped launch the careers of its stars, including Hathaway and Chris Pine. (Disney)
Announcement and Confirmation of the Third Film
In October 2024, Hathaway announced that ‘The Princess Diaries 3’ was officially in the works. According to The Hollywood Reporter, filming is expected to begin in 2025. Hathaway expressed her eagerness to revisit the franchise, stating that it was “thrilling” to see the level of excitement for a third film. (The Hollywood Reporter)
Hathaway also shared a photo on her Instagram account, showcasing a news report announcing the third film, with the caption, “Miracles happen. Back to Genovia.” She also mentioned that director Adele Lim, who also directed ‘Raya and the Last Dragon’ and ‘Crazy Rich Asians,’ will be on board for the new film. (KRON)
Julie Andrews’ Possible Return and Chris Pine’s Role
Julie Andrews, who played Queen Clarisse Renaldi in the first two films, has expressed her willingness to return for the third installment. In 2020, she stated that she would be open to rejoining the franchise, saying, “I think I would. I’m getting awfully old and crotchety. I’m not sure if it’s the right timing, but I think to work with Annie would be lovely again.” (The Talk @ Home)
However, in 2024, Andrews stated that she is not sure if it’s the right time to return, saying, “It’s quite a long time now since the two Diaries were done, and I’m not sure, but sometimes it’s best to leave a good thing alone. I don’t like it when people milk and milk and milk the subject, you know, ’til it’s dead.” (Today)
Chris Pine, who played the role of Nicholas Devereaux in the second film, has expressed his interest in reprising his role in the third installment. Hathaway has tagged Pine in her Instagram post, suggesting that he may be on board for the new film. (Instagram)
Additional Projects and Sequels
Anne Hathaway is also involved in another highly anticipated sequel, ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2.’ The film, which is currently in pre-production, will follow the struggles of Meryl Streep’s character, Miranda Priestly, as she competes with her former assistant and rival executive, Emily Charlton, for advertising revenue amidst declining print media. (IMDb)
‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ is expected to feature a star-studded cast, including Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci, in addition to Hathaway and Streep. The plot will explore the challenges of the fashion industry and the evolving role of women in the workplace. (CNN)
Conclusion
In conclusion, the announcement of a ‘Princess Diaries’ trilogy has sent shockwaves of excitement throughout the entertainment industry and beyond. Anne Hathaway’s confirmation of her involvement in the project has reignited the fervor around this beloved franchise, which has been a staple of many people’s childhoods and teenage years. The article highlighted the nostalgia and cultural significance of the original films, as well as the potential for the new trilogy to bring in a fresh wave of fans.
The implications of this announcement are far-reaching, with the potential to not only revive a classic franchise but also to inspire a new generation of young women and girls. The ‘Princess Diaries’ series has always been more than just a lighthearted romp; it has been a beacon of empowerment, self-discovery, and growth. As we look to the future, it will be fascinating to see how the new trilogy tackles contemporary issues and themes, while still maintaining the essence of what made the originals so endearing.