A highly anticipated follow-up to a beloved early-2000s film is officially on its way. The Princess Diaries, famously referenced by Meghan Markle as the “old movie with Anne Hathaway,” has announced its third installment after more than two decades since the release of The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement in 2004 and the original film in 2001.
Adele Lim, known for her work on Disney’s animated feature Raya and the Last Dragon and the hit film Crazy Rich Asians, is set to direct this new chapter. Lim expressed her excitement, stating, “As a die-hard fan of the original Princess Diaries, I’m beyond excited to be a part of bringing the third iteration of this beloved franchise to life.” She emphasized the film’s themes of female empowerment, joy, and mentorship.
Anne Hathaway has confirmed her return to the franchise, sharing on Instagram, “Back to Genovia,” and teasing fans with the quote, “The fairytale continues,” from the previous films.
The original films, adapted from Meg Cabot’s well-known young adult series, were directed by the late Garry Marshall, who passed away in 2016. The story follows Mia Thermopolis, portrayed by Hathaway, as she discovers her royal lineage and undergoes princess training from her grandmother, Queen Clarisse Renaldi, played by Julie Andrews.
The development of The Princess Diaries 3 appears to be progressing. The choice of Lim as director brings the long-gestating project closer to fruition. In 2022, it was revealed that screenwriter Aadrita Mukerji, known for her work on Supergirl and Quantum Leap, is involved in the scriptwriting, while Debra Martin Chase, producer of the first two films, will return as well. Chase will co-executive produce alongside Lim’s partners, Naia Cucukov and Melissa Stack.
Earlier this year, Hathaway hinted at the film’s progress when asked by New York Times Magazine, affirming, “Yep,” but refrained from providing further details.
In discussing the franchise’s impact on her life, Hathaway shared her emotional connection in a recent interview with Vanity Fair, stating, “This was the film that changed my life,” and reflecting on how The Princess Diaries has only grown in significance over the years.