The Schwartz Awakens: 7 Shocking Updates On Mel Brooks' Spaceballs 2: The Search For More Money

After nearly four decades of waiting, the sequel to Mel Brooks' cult classic sci-fi parody, Spaceballs, is not only confirmed but is rapidly nearing completion, with a highly-anticipated 2027 release date. For years, the phrase "Spaceballs 2: The Search for More Money" was nothing more than a hilarious meta-joke from the film's climax. Today, in late 2025, that joke is reality, with the project officially greenlit by Amazon/MGM and production details pouring in, confirming the return of nearly the entire original cast, including the reclusive Rick Moranis.

The journey to revive the spoof genre masterpiece has been a long one, but thanks to the dedication of new creative forces—most notably producer and co-writer Josh Gad—the Schwartz is finally strong with this project. This is everything you need to know about the upcoming film, from the returning legends to the new generation stepping into the massive boots of Lone Starr and Princess Vespa.

The Starfleet Crew: Confirmed Cast and Crew for Spaceballs 2

The success of the original 1987 film rested entirely on the comedic genius of its ensemble cast, and the sequel, officially titled Spaceballs 2: The Search for More Money, is bringing back the legendary players. The fact that this many original stars are returning is a testament to the enduring love for Mel Brooks' work and the specific comedic universe he created.

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• Mel Brooks (Yogurt / President Skroob): The legendary director, writer, and star is confirmed to reprise his dual roles. Brooks, who is nearing 100, is the creative heart of the project, serving as a producer and ensuring the film maintains the irreverent, self-aware tone that made the first film a hit. He will once again play the wise, merchandising-focused Yogurt and the hapless President Skroob.
• Rick Moranis (Lord Dark Helmet): This is perhaps the most shocking and welcome news. Moranis largely retired from live-action acting in the late 1990s to focus on his family, making his return as the diminutive, helmet-wearing villain Lord Dark Helmet a monumental event for fans. His involvement was a key factor in getting the sequel off the ground.
• Bill Pullman (Lone Starr): The fearless, yet debt-ridden, space trucker Lone Starr is confirmed to return. Pullman’s chemistry with his co-stars was central to the original's success, and his presence anchors the returning cast.
• Daphne Zuniga (Queen Vespa): The spoiled, runaway Princess Vespa, who eventually marries Lone Starr, is also confirmed to reprise her role. Her character's royal lineage and relationship with Lone Starr are central to the new film's generational plot.
• Josh Gad (Producer / Co-Writer / Undisclosed Role): Gad is the driving force behind the sequel. He co-wrote the script with Benji Samit and Dan Hernandez and is a producer alongside Mel Brooks. Gad will also appear in the film in an undisclosed role, with speculation ranging from the son of Barf to a new parody character.

Tragically, two major stars from the original film, John Candy (Barf) and Joan Rivers (Dot Matrix), have passed away. The sequel is expected to address the absence of these beloved characters with Mel Brooks' signature blend of meta-humor and genuine affection.

7 Major Updates Confirming The Search for More Money is Complete

The path to Spaceballs 2 has been filled with false starts and rumors for decades. However, recent announcements and production updates have solidified the film's status as a must-see event. Here are the most significant, current facts about the sequel:

1. The Official Release Window is 2027

The sequel has a targeted release date set for 2027, placing it nearly 40 years after the original film's 1987 debut. This long-awaited timeline speaks to the difficulty of coordinating such a high-profile reunion and securing the necessary rights, which are now held by Amazon/MGM. The 2027 date suggests a major theatrical and streaming push from the studio.

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2. A New Generation is Taking the Pilot’s Seat: Enter Starburst

The film is confirmed to be introducing a new lead character who is a direct descendant of the original heroes. Lewis Pullman, the son of Lone Starr actor Bill Pullman, has joined the cast to play a character named Starburst. Starburst is the son of Lone Starr and Queen Vespa, continuing the family legacy of space-faring adventures and likely serving as the new protagonist to parody modern sci-fi tropes.

3. Josh Gad's Pitch Was the Key to Unlocking Rick Moranis

For years, the biggest hurdle was the return of Rick Moranis. Josh Gad, a massive fan of the original, credited his relentless passion and a compelling script with finally convincing Moranis to return to the role of Lord Dark Helmet. Gad's involvement as a co-writer and producer reportedly provided the creative assurance that the sequel would honor the spirit of the original while developing a fresh, relevant story.

4. Filming Has Reportedly Wrapped

While official announcements are often staggered, reports suggest that principal photography for Spaceballs 2 concluded in late 2025. This rapid production timeline, following the official announcements in mid-2024, indicates that the project is moving quickly toward post-production to meet its 2027 release window. Lewis Pullman mentioned that Mel Brooks did not attend the wrap party, suggesting Brooks' involvement was primarily creative and voice-over related due to his age.

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5. The Director is Josh Greenbaum

Mel Brooks passed the directorial torch to Josh Greenbaum, best known for his work on the R-rated comedy Strays and the acclaimed comedy Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar. Greenbaum’s background in both broad and surreal comedy makes him a perfect fit to handle the unique blend of satire and sight gags that define the Spaceballs universe.

6. Plot Details Are Under a "Schwartz Shield"

While the exact narrative is being guarded closely—described by some as being "under lock, key, and an industrial-strength Schwartz shield"—it is confirmed to be a parody of modern space opera. The original film satirized the Star Wars trilogy and Star Trek. The sequel is expected to set its sights on the Disney era of the Star Wars saga, including the sequel trilogy, as well as modern sci-fi franchises like Guardians of the Galaxy and Dune. The introduction of Starburst suggests a story focused on the next generation facing a new galactic threat, likely involving the return of Lord Dark Helmet.

7. Keke Palmer and Other New Talent are Joining the Galaxy

In addition to Lewis Pullman, several other high-profile actors are rumored or confirmed to be joining the cast in undisclosed roles, including Keke Palmer. The addition of young, talented comedic actors like Palmer and Pullman ensures that the sequel will have a fresh energy to complement the returning comedy legends like Brooks and Moranis, bridging the gap between classic and contemporary satire.

The Topical Authority: Why Spaceballs 2 is Now or Never

The original Spaceballs was a box office disappointment upon its release but grew into a massive cult hit through home video, solidifying its place in the pantheon of great film parodies. The sequel's long delay was largely due to Mel Brooks' desire to wait until a new trilogy of Star Wars films was released, giving him fresh material to satirize. The Disney acquisition of Lucasfilm and the subsequent release of the sequel trilogy (The Force Awakens, The Last Jedi, and The Rise of Skywalker) finally provided the comedic fodder Brooks had been waiting for.

The timing of Spaceballs 2: The Search for More Money is perfect. The current pop culture landscape is saturated with space operas, reboots, and interconnected cinematic universes, providing an endless supply of material for Brooks, Gad, and the writing team (Benji Samit, Dan Hernandez) to skewer. The return of Rick Moranis is a powerful emotional draw, making the film a genuine event rather than just a simple cash-in. With an official release date and the main cast secured, the sequel is poised to be one of the biggest comedy events of the 2027 film calendar, proving that the Schwartz is indeed a powerful, and profitable, force.