Disney has been in various stages of development on a new Princess Diaries, from a third entry to a spinoff, and at one point a Disney+ series was even considered. As of now, The Princess Diaries 3 is in the works, and while Anne Hathaway is expected to return, a Disney legend will not be joining her.
Julie Andrews on Why She’s Not Returning
Julie Andrews, who spoke with InStyle Magazine, said he will not be returning for the third entry in the franchise. Andrews hinted at her age (she is 90 years old) as a factor.
I think I’m retired, really, would be about the best description for that. [The film’s creative team] asked me all last year if I would be keen to do it. It was very very hard to say ‘no,’ but I did because I thought I had a wonderful ride, and this one I felt would flourish very well and wouldn’t need Granny going in there at my age.
Julie Andrews
While plot details remain under wraps, the film is expected to continue the story of Mia Thermopolis (Hathaway), the reluctant princess-turned-queen, made famous by Anne Hathaway in the 2001 original and its 2004 sequel.
At one point, a spin-off centered on Mia’s sister was in very early development, about a biracial teenage girl who discovers that Mia is her half-sister and moves to Genovia to live with the royal family. A few years ago, Disney wanted Zendaya for this role, and with Andrews not returning, it is unknown if the studio will use parts of the spinoff or even reapproach Zendaya now that her schedule is clearing up.
The studio is currently reworking the script from the ground up, and this was before Julie Andrews decided not to return. Adele Lim (Raya and the Last Dragon) is still attached to direct. Aadrita Mukerji (Reacher, Supergirl)wrote the first draft of the script. Debra Martin Chase is producing Princess Diaries 3. EPs include Lim’s producing partner Naia Cucukov and Melissa Stack. Flora Greeson also wrote a treatment.
As for Hathaway, she has had quite a year with Mother Mary, The Devil Wears Prada 2, which grossed nearly $700 million, the billion-dollar summer hit The Odyssey, and this week’s The End of Oak Street, which is receiving crazy amounts of buzz following its premiere. Up next for the superstar is the psychological thriller Verity in October, and she is also working on a spinoff series based on her film Ella Enchanted for Disney+.
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