After years of royal anticipation, fans of The Princess Diaries franchise have reason to celebrate. Disney is officially moving forward with a third installment of the beloved coming-of-age comedy series that first charmed audiences in 2001. The studio initially announced development in late 2022, tapping Aadrita Mukerji (Reacher) to pen the screenplay. Now, with the recent hiring of director Adele Lim—best known for co-writing Crazy Rich Asians—the Genovian palace doors are inching open once again.
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While Anne Hathaway, who skyrocketed to fame as the awkwardly endearing Mia Thermopolis, hasn’t formally confirmed her return, she’s been dropping tantalizing hints that have fans buzzing. The Oscar-winning actress took to Instagram to share a playful video montage. Counting up from one to three, the clip interspersed iconic scenes of Mia and Queen Clarisse Renaldi (Julie Andrews) exclaiming “Shut up!”—culminating in Hathaway herself delivering the line before cutting to a screenshot announcing Lim’s directorial role.
“Miracles happen,” Hathaway captioned the post, nodding to the original film’s memorable soundtrack. “So excited to be going back to Genovia with Adele Lim, Disney, and Somewhere Pictures!” Her mention of Somewhere Pictures—her own production company—suggests she’ll not only reprise her role but also step into a producing capacity for the threequel.
Julie Andrews, the legendary actress who portrayed Mia’s regal grandmother, has previously expressed uncertainty about returning. “It’s been too long. I’m not sure it’s going to happen,” Andrews shared in past interviews. Yet, with Hathaway’s enthusiasm and the new creative team in place, hopes are high that Andrews might just make a royal comeback.
Adele Lim’s involvement adds a fresh dynamic to the franchise. Her knack for blending heartfelt storytelling with cultural richness, as seen in Crazy Rich Asians, aligns perfectly with The Princess Diaries‘ blend of humor and heart.
Anne Hathaway is coming back
The original films chronicled Mia’s transformation from a clumsy teenager to the poised heir of Genovia, resonating with audiences worldwide. The prospect of revisiting Mia’s journey—and seeing how she’s navigated royal life in the years since—has fans speculating about potential plotlines. Will Mia be guiding a new heir? Facing modern challenges in Genovia? The possibilities are as enchanting as a Genovian ball.
As Disney tightens the script and finalizes casting, one thing is clear: the demand for a return to Genovia is as strong as ever. With Hathaway’s spirited involvement and Lim’s directorial vision, The Princess Diaries 3 is shaping up to be a royal event worth waiting for
“Shut up!” indeed.
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The Princess Diaries
A socially awkward but very bright 15-year-old girl being raised by a single mom discovers that she is the princess of a small European country because of the recent death of her long-absent father, who, unknown to her, was the crown prince of Genovia. She must make a choice between continuing the life of a San Francisco teen or stepping up to the throne.
