More than two decades after the original film introduced Mia Thermopolis, “The Princess Diaries 3” appears to be moving closer to production. Producer Debra Martin Chase, who worked on the first two movies, said the project is actively progressing and that the team has already completed a great deal of groundwork. Speaking at the Black Women on Broadway Awards in New York City, Chase said the production is “more than hopeful” and emphasized that the goal is to keep advancing the sequel. She also said the team had originally hoped to begin filming this year, but stressed that the movie is still on track and that excitement remains high as new pieces continue to come together.
The long-awaited sequel was officially confirmed in 2024, sparking strong interest from fans of the Disney franchise. While plot details have not been revealed, Anne Hathaway is expected to return as Mia Thermopolis, the character that made her a star. Hathaway last appeared in 2004’s “The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement,” when Mia embraced her role as Queen of Genovia. Her return would mark a major reunion for the series and would likely be central to the film’s appeal.
Additional signs of progress have come from Kathleen Marshall, daughter of the late director Garry Marshall. In April, she said the team was working on “Princess Diaries 3” and described the project as moving forward with an “incredible team” in place. Marshall said she was excited to be involved with anything connected to the franchise and suggested the sequel could be Hathaway’s next major project in that universe. Her remarks added to the sense that the film is gaining real momentum after years of speculation.
Hathaway herself has previously expressed interest in returning. In April 2024, she described “The Princess Diaries” as “the film that changed my life” and said revisiting it was emotional. In earlier comments, she acknowledged that fans had waited a long time for a third movie but said development simply takes time. Her remarks have helped keep expectations alive while the project moved through early stages behind the scenes.
The actress has also spoken warmly about working with Julie Andrews, who played Queen Clarisse Renaldi in the original film. Hathaway has said Andrews’ kindness and professionalism on set made a lasting impression on her, particularly the way she stayed behind to sign autographs for fans. That experience, Hathaway said, shaped how she thinks about treating others and how she wants to conduct herself over time.
As fans wait for official casting, filming details, and story information, “The Princess Diaries 3” remains one of Disney’s most anticipated legacy sequels. The combination of returning creative figures, Hathaway’s interest, and continued development updates suggests the project is no longer just a wish among fans, but a film that is steadily taking shape.
