After receiving an Oscar nomination for her role in Wicked, Ariana Grande has landed her next film project. She will star alongside Robert De Niro and Ben Stiller in the latest entry in Universal’s comedy franchise, Meet the Parents. This upcoming film is slated for release on November 25, 2026.
While the story details remain largely under wraps, it has been revealed that Grande will portray the fiancée of Stiller and Teri Polo’s son in the film. The original film’s premise, which revolves around the humorous dynamics of a future father-in-law giving his blessing for a marriage proposal, became a cultural touchstone when it premiered in 2000. The film was not only a commercial success, grossing over $330 million globally but also helped to elevate both Stiller and De Niro’s careers in the comedy genre.
Blythe Danner and Polo might reprise their roles from the original films, although their deals are still in negotiation. John Hamburg, who co-wrote the previous films, will write and direct this installment, with producing duties shared among various collaborators, including De Niro’s Tribeca Productions and Stiller’s Red Hour Films.
Grande’s journey in film continues to gain momentum; her acclaimed portrayal of Glinda in Wicked showcased her talent and has led to a stream of new opportunities in Hollywood. The film itself, released last November, accumulated nearly $800 million globally and earned numerous nominations, including Academy Awards, solidifying Grande’s status as both a pop star and a capable actress.
Her next appearance in Wicked: For Good is scheduled for November 21, 2025. With multiple offers from major studios, Grande has been selective about her projects, demonstrating a clear intention to explore comedic roles.
This move into comedy adds a fresh dimension to Grande’s career, and with her star power, her involvement is likely to attract attention and delight fans of both her music and acting. It’s an exciting time for Grande as she balances her musical career with promising film prospects.