The Royal Return: 7 Shocking New Updates On Princess Diaries 2's Sequel, 'Princess Diaries 3' (Filming Starts 2025!)

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The wait is finally over: After two decades of speculation, fan petitions, and hopeful whispers, the long-awaited continuation of the Genovian saga is officially moving forward. The sequel to the beloved 2004 film, The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement, is no longer a rumor—it is confirmed to be in pre-production as of late 2024, with cameras expected to roll for The Princess Diaries 3 in 2025. This new installment promises to pick up the story of Princess Mia Thermopolis, who is now a full-fledged Queen, navigating the complexities of modern royalty and her enduring fairytale life.

The original films, which launched Anne Hathaway into superstardom and cemented Julie Andrews's iconic status for a new generation, left a lasting cultural footprint. The news of a third movie is the freshest, most exciting update for fans who grew up with Mia's clumsy-but-charming journey from San Francisco high schooler to the Queen of Genovia. Here is a definitive, up-to-the-minute breakdown of everything we know about the future of the franchise, from the returning cast to the new creative team.

The Royal Lineage: A Look Back at Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement

Before diving into the new sequel, it is essential to revisit the film that set the stage: The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement. Released in 2004, the movie saw Mia Thermopolis graduate from Princeton and arrive in Genovia, only to discover an ancient law requires her to be married within 30 days to assume the throne. This setup introduced a new love interest, the charming and roguish Viscount Nicholas Devereaux, played by Chris Pine, and culminated in Mia courageously changing the law to rule Genovia on her own terms.

Key Cast and Crew of Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement (2004)

  • Director: Garry Marshall
  • Screenplay By: Shonda Rhimes
  • Based on Characters By: Meg Cabot
  • Starring: Anne Hathaway (Princess Mia Thermopolis), Julie Andrews (Queen Clarisse Renaldi), Héctor Elizondo (Joe), Chris Pine (Nicholas Devereaux), Heather Matarazzo (Lilly Moscovitz)
  • The Plot: Mia has 30 days to find a husband or forfeit the crown to Lord Nicholas Devereaux's ambitious uncle, Viscount Mabrey. She ultimately chooses to rule as an unmarried Queen, and Nicholas, having fallen for her, supports her decision.

The late Garry Marshall, who directed both the first and second films, was instrumental in shaping the franchise's heart and humor. His absence is a poignant note for the third film, but the legacy of his work—a celebration of self-acceptance and female empowerment—will undoubtedly inform the new chapter.

Update 1: Anne Hathaway is Officially Returning to Genovia

The biggest and most crucial piece of news is the official return of Academy Award-winning actress Anne Hathaway. Hathaway, who has frequently expressed her desire to reprise the role, confirmed her participation in the third film, much to the delight of fans worldwide. Her character, Mia Thermopolis, will now be a mature Queen, long past the awkward high school phase and the political drama of her early twenties. The film is expected to explore the challenges and triumphs of her reign, two decades after she took the crown.

The new movie is confirmed to be a direct continuation, not a reboot, which means it will respect the established storyline of Mia's ascent to Queen. Hathaway's return ensures the heart and soul of the franchise remains intact, offering a nostalgic yet fresh perspective on the Genovian royal family.

Update 2: The Princess Diaries 3 is Set to Begin Filming in 2025

The timeline for the project is accelerating rapidly. Reports indicate that the sequel, tentatively titled The Princess Diaries 3, is expected to begin filming in 2025. This development signals that the script is likely nearing completion and the production is moving into the active casting and logistics phase. Pre-production has already begun, with Disney pushing the project forward.

A major development in this phase is the open casting call. This search for new talent suggests that the film will introduce new, pivotal characters to the Genovian court, potentially including a new generation of royals or political figures who challenge Queen Mia's authority.

Update 3: Adele Lim Takes the Director's Chair

Bringing a fresh, modern perspective to the beloved series is director Adele Lim. Known for co-writing the critically acclaimed film Crazy Rich Asians and directing the hilarious and heartfelt comedy Joy Ride, Lim is poised to infuse the Genovian world with contemporary flair and diverse storytelling. Her involvement is a strong indicator that the sequel will maintain the franchise’s signature mix of comedy and romance while modernizing its themes for a 21st-century audience. Lim's experience in crafting successful, female-driven narratives makes her a perfect choice to shepherd Queen Mia's next chapter.

Update 4: The Heartbreaking Status of Queen Clarisse Renaldi

For many fans, the relationship between Mia and her grandmother, Queen Clarisse Renaldi, played by the legendary Julie Andrews, is the emotional core of the series. However, Andrews has stated that it is "unlikely" she will return for the third installment. Citing the significant time that has passed since the last film and the passing of original director Garry Marshall, Andrews expressed that the timing and circumstances may not make her return possible.

While this is saddening news, the possibility of a respectful, narrative-driven explanation for Queen Clarisse's absence—perhaps a reference to her passing or a peaceful retirement—would allow the story to focus on Mia's reign as the sole monarch. Regardless, the spirit of Queen Clarisse’s guidance and wisdom will undoubtedly remain a powerful influence on Mia.

Update 5: Will Chris Pine Return as Lord Nicholas Devereaux?

One of the most burning questions for fans of Royal Engagement is whether Chris Pine will reprise his role as Lord Nicholas Devereaux. Nicholas was Mia's romantic foil and eventual true love interest in the second film, though they did not marry. Pine has publicly expressed that he is "open" to returning to the role, even joking about needing a better haircut this time around. Although his return is not officially confirmed, his willingness, coupled with the strong fan demand for the reunion of Mia and Nicholas, makes his appearance a high probability.

The plot of Princess Diaries 3 could easily revolve around the challenge of Mia finding a suitable partner, or perhaps, realizing that Nicholas was her true soulmate all along. His return would be a major nostalgic draw for the sequel.

Update 6: Mandy Moore is Ready for a Redemption Arc

Another exciting potential return is Mandy Moore, who played the mean-girl cheerleader Lana Thomas in the first Princess Diaries movie. Moore has stated she would be willing to return for a cameo, specifically to give her character a "redemptive storyline." Lana's transformation from Mia's high school bully to a more mature, perhaps even apologetic, figure would be a fantastic nod to the franchise's original fans.

This kind of full-circle moment, where Mia is now a Queen and Lana is a humbled adult, would offer a satisfying resolution to their high school rivalry. Her potential involvement, even in a small role, shows the immense goodwill and affection the original cast has for the series.

Update 7: The Future of Genovia and Princess Mia's Reign

The central theme of the new film is likely to be Queen Mia’s life as the reigning monarch of the fictional European principality of Genovia. The original films focused on her transformation and her fight to rule. The third film will explore what happens *after* the fairytale ending. Entities like Mia's best friend, Lilly Moscovitz (Heather Matarazzo), are also rumored to be considered for a return, providing a familiar face and a link to Mia’s non-royal past.

The movie is expected to delve into modern political issues, the pressures of a royal marriage, and perhaps even the question of an heir to the Genovian throne. With a new director and a confirmed star, The Princess Diaries 3 is shaping up to be a nostalgic, yet incredibly timely, continuation of one of Disney's most enduring live-action franchises. Filming in 2025 means a release date could be as early as late 2026, marking the true royal return fans have been waiting two decades for.

princess diaries 2
princess diaries 2

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