Princess Diaries 3 Is Finally Happening—Returns With New Director After 20-Year Wait

Princess Diaries 3 has been living in Hollywood limbo for what feels like an entire generation, but the wait just got a fresh jolt. Anne Hathaway, back as Mia Thermopolis in everyone’s head, recently said the project is “in a good place,” and that alone is enough to make the Genovia group chat go feral.

Here’s where it gets messy, in the best way. Hathaway’s teasing optimism lands in the same universe as Julie Andrews’ blunt take on the franchise returning, because she’s basically warned against “milking” the story to death. Meanwhile, the buzz around a new creative direction is heating up, with Adele Lim stepping in and suddenly the film is not just a comeback, it’s a potential reboot of the vibes.

So yeah, the question is not whether Princess Diaries 3 can happen, it’s what version of Genovia we’re about to get.

The delectable Anne Hathaway

Chris Saucedo/SXSW Conference & Festivals via Getty

Anne Hathaway’s “we’re in a good place” update hits right as fans are still replaying every Mia Thermopolis moment like it’s evidence.</p>

Back in April, Anne Hathaway gave fans a glimmer of hope about the long-awaited Princess Diaries 3. Speaking to V Magazine, she revealed that "we’re in a good place" when it comes to the film’s development.

Though she kept things mysterious, she added, "That’s all I can say. There’s nothing to announce yet. But we’re in a good place." Hathaway, who famously portrayed Mia Thermopolis, left us eagerly waiting for more but confident that exciting news might be just around the corner.

And then Julie Andrews shows up with that TODAY quote about leaving a good thing alone, which makes the whole “third movie” plan feel way more delicate.</p>

Cultural Impact on Storytelling

As the entertainment landscape evolves, the role of female directors is becoming increasingly significant. Adele Lim, known for her fresh comedic voice, embodies this shift. Lim's direction in The Princess Diaries 3 is a brilliant opportunity to explore themes of identity and empowerment, especially for younger audiences.

It also echoes the Redditor whose siblings won’t reply, yet keep using her streaming accounts.

Julie Andrews, a.k.a. Queen Clarisse Renaldi

Walt Disney

The plot thickens further when Adele Lim’s comedic spark enters the picture, turning Princess Diaries 3 into more than just nostalgia.</p>

Julie Andrews shared her thoughts with TODAY on the possibility of returning to Genovia. Reflecting on the gap since the last Princess Diaries movie, she said, "It’s quite a long time now since the two Diaries were done, and I’m not sure, but sometimes it’s best to leave a good thing alone."

Andrews didn’t mince words, adding, "I don’t like it when people milk and milk and milk the subject, you know, till it’s dead."

Yet, at 89, the Mary Poppins legend still left the door open, saying, "I’d be very happy if we did do another one."

Anne Hathaway, on the other hand, is just as excited as the fans. Speaking to PEOPLE in 2023, she expressed how "thrilling" it was to "see the level of excitement" surrounding the potential third film.

Ever pragmatic, she reminded everyone that making a movie takes time: "It's a process that requires patience, and so everybody should consider themselves a part of the movie business now, because this is how long it actually takes to make things."

Hathaway, who has become a Hollywood favorite since her breakout role as Princess Mia, also has another fan-favorite sequel in the works—the much-anticipated follow-up to 2006’s The Devil Wears Prada. Fans of both films are eagerly awaiting more news.

Even Hathaway’s reminder about patience, plus the 20-year gap, makes it feel like Genovia’s return is finally arriving on its own schedule.</p>

In the realm of film, the importance of character development cannot be overstated. Relatable characters often lead to deeper audience engagement.

This approach not only enhances storytelling but can also resonate with viewers on a personal level, fostering a sense of connection.

As The Princess Diaries 3 unfolds, incorporating these insights can elevate the narrative, making it more impactful and relevant to contemporary audiences.

The return of The Princess Diaries 3 under the direction of Adele Lim is a thrilling development that promises to intertwine humor with essential themes of identity and empowerment. This revival offers a unique opportunity to explore diverse narratives that resonate with a broad audience, fostering a sense of empathy and connection. By emphasizing relatable and multi-dimensional characters, the film aims to enrich its storytelling, allowing for a deeper engagement that goes beyond mere entertainment. As fans eagerly anticipate this new chapter in the beloved franchise, the potential for transformative storytelling is palpable, making the journey back to Genovia all the more exciting.

Genovia might be reopening its gates, but this time it’s coming with new rules, new energy, and a whole lot of pressure.

Before you hit the theater, read about a Disneyland line that flipped from “Guardians” to “Guard Your Space”.