Everything We Know About The Princess Diaries 3 So Far
By Alexus Mosley
Photo Credit/Walt Disney Productions.
Genovians, this is not a drill. More than twenty years after Mia Thermopolis first learned she was heir to the throne of Genovia, The Princess Diaries 3 is still making its way toward the big screen. While Disney has remained relatively quiet about the long-awaited sequel, new comments from producer Debra Martin Chase suggest that the royal wheels are still very much in motion.
From production updates to potential plot details inspired by Meg Cabot’s books, here’s everything we know about The Princess Diaries 3 so far.
The Film Is Still Happening
Fans first got confirmation that a third Princess Diaries movie was in development back in 2022. Since then, updates have been few and far between, leading many to wonder whether the project was still moving forward. Fortunately, producer Debra Martin Chase recently reassured fans that the sequel remains a priority. “We are more than hopeful,” Chase told People earlier this month. “We are moving in that direction. We’ve done a lot of groundwork.”
She also revealed that the team had hoped to begin filming this year. “We had hoped to be shooting this year. So, it’s coming. We’re intent upon making it happen. And we’re excited that the people are excited.” While an official production start date has not been announced, the update is one of the clearest signs yet that Disney is actively working to bring Mia back to our screens.
Adele Lim Will Direct
One of the biggest developments surrounding the sequel arrived last year when Disney tapped Adele Lim to direct the film. Lim is best known for co-writing Crazy Rich Asians and writing and directing Joy Ride, making her a natural fit for a franchise that blends heartfelt storytelling, comedy, and female empowerment. The filmmaker has previously expressed her love for The Princess Diaries series, making her appointment an encouraging sign for longtime fans hoping the sequel captures the charm of the original films.
Photo Credit/Walt Disney Productions.
Anne Hathaway Is Expected to Return
Although Disney has yet to reveal a full cast list, Anne Hathaway is expected to reprise her role as Mia Thermopolis. Hathaway has repeatedly spoken positively about returning to Genovia over the years, and fans have eagerly awaited the opportunity to see where Mia’s story has taken her since 2004’s The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement. Details regarding other returning cast members remain under wraps.
The Story May Follow Meg Cabot’s Royal Wedding Novel
Perhaps the most intriguing clue about the film’s direction surfaced last summer through a reported casting notice. According to the notice, Disney was searching for a mixed-race actress around age 15 to portray a character named Olivia. Fans of Meg Cabot’s book series immediately recognized the name.
In the 2015 novel Princess Diaries, Volume XI: Royal Wedding, Olivia Robinson is revealed to be Mia’s half-sister. After Olivia’s mother passes away, Mia discovers her existence and brings her into her life while simultaneously preparing for her royal wedding and expecting twins. The storyline introduces a new generation to the franchise while allowing Mia to step into a mentorship role, much like the one Queen Clarisse once held for her.
While Disney has not confirmed that the movie will directly adapt the novel, the Olivia casting notice has fueled speculation that elements of the book may serve as inspiration.
Fans Are More Excited Than Ever
If there is one thing Disney can count on, it is that audiences are still deeply invested in the world of Genovia. The original 2001 film remains one of Disney’s most beloved coming-of-age movies, while its 2004 sequel cemented Mia Thermopolis as one of the most memorable princesses of the early 2000s.
Whether The Princess Diaries 3 follows Meg Cabot’s Royal Wedding storyline or takes Mia in an entirely new direction, fans are clearly ready to return to Genovia. For now, the sequel remains in development, but with a director attached, groundwork underway, and new updates finally emerging, The Princess Diaries 3 appears closer than ever to becoming a reality.