As of February 2025, “The Princess Diaries 3” is in active development at Disney, with Anne Hathaway confirmed to reprise her role as Mia Thermopolis. The film is being directed by Adele Lim, known for her work on “Crazy Rich Asians” and “Joy Ride.” The script is penned by Flora Greeson, with Hathaway also serving as a producer under her Somewhere Pictures banner.
The production budget for “The Princess Diaries 3” is reportedly set at $75 million, reflecting Disney’s commitment to delivering a high-quality sequel that honors the legacy of the franchise. A significant portion of the budget is allocated to creating lavish sets, costumes, and visual effects to bring the royal world of Genovia to life. The film also invests heavily in its star-studded cast, ensuring the return of beloved characters while introducing new faces to the story.
While an official release date has not been confirmed, industry speculation suggests that the film could move into production sometime in 2025, making a 2026 release date the earliest likely window. This timeline aligns with Disney’s strategic planning for its major releases.
The original “The Princess Diaries” (2001) was a box office success, grossing over $165 million worldwide against a $26 million budget. Its sequel, “The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement” (2004), also performed well, earning $134 million globally. These successes established the series as a defining coming-of-age story for a generation and launched Hathaway’s ascent to Hollywood stardom.
Given the franchise’s enduring popularity and Disney’s robust marketing strategies, “The Princess Diaries 3” is expected to perform exceptionally well at the box office. Analysts predict a strong global opening, with the film appealing to both nostalgic fans and new audiences. Early buzz and the return of key cast members contribute to the anticipation surrounding this sequel.
In summary, “The Princess Diaries 3” is poised to continue the franchise’s legacy of success. With a substantial budget, the return of Anne Hathaway, and Disney’s strategic planning, the film aims to captivate audiences once again with the charm and humor that made the original movies beloved classics.