The Princess Diaries 3 Release Date: 5 Shocking Updates That Will Determine When Mia Thermopolis Returns

The question of when The Princess Diaries 3 will finally hit theaters has been a royal mystery for two decades, but as of today, December 18, 2025, the picture is clearer than ever. The long-awaited Disney sequel is officially in development, with its star confirmed and a director attached, signaling that the film is moving from a hopeful rumor to a production reality. While an official Princess Diaries 3 release date has not been set, the current production timeline suggests fans should be preparing for Mia Thermopolis's return to Genovia within the next few years. This article breaks down the five most crucial and recent updates that will determine when Queen Mia will grace our screens once more.

The journey to a third film began almost immediately after the success of The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement in 2004, but the project gained significant momentum in late 2024 and 2025 with major confirmations from the key players. These fresh updates give us the best indication yet of the movie's timeline, cast, and creative direction, ensuring the continuation of the beloved fairytale franchise.

The Official Status and Expected Filming Timeline

The most important piece of news for fans is that The Princess Diaries 3 is officially a go. Disney has confirmed the film is in active development, securing the key elements needed to move into the production phase. This is not a reboot but a direct continuation of the story, picking up with Princess—now Queen—Mia Thermopolis in her life as the sovereign of Genovia.

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The Unofficial Release Date Window

While a specific date remains elusive, the expected production schedule provides a solid release window. Star Anne Hathaway has indicated that filming is expected to begin in 2025.

• Filming Start: Expected to begin in 2025.
• Post-Production: Typically takes 12–18 months for a major studio film.
• Estimated Release Date: Given the 2025 start, the most likely release date window for The Princess Diaries 3 is Late 2026 or Early 2027.

This timeline is contingent on the script being finalized and the full cast schedule aligning, but it represents the most optimistic and realistic projection based on current information.

Anne Hathaway’s Confirmed Return and New Director Adele Lim

The core of the franchise is Anne Hathaway's portrayal of Amelia Mignonette Thermopolis Renaldi, and fans can breathe a sigh of relief: Hathaway is officially returning.

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Hathaway, who has since become an Oscar winner and a global superstar, has repeatedly expressed her enthusiasm for revisiting the character of Mia. Her public confirmation in late 2024 was the catalyst that truly cemented the project's viability. Mia will be returning as the established Queen of Genovia, likely dealing with the challenges of modern monarchy, royal duties, and perhaps even family life.

New Creative Blood: Director Adele Lim

A crucial step in moving forward was finding a director to take the reins from the late, great Garry Marshall, who directed the first two films and passed away in 2016. Disney has tapped Adele Lim to direct The Princess Diaries 3.

• Director: Adele Lim.
• Notable Works: Lim is the acclaimed co-screenwriter of the box office hit Crazy Rich Asians and Disney’s animated feature Raya and the Last Dragon.
• Significance: Her involvement signals a fresh, contemporary vision for the franchise, bringing a modern sensibility to the beloved fairytale narrative.

The script is being penned by Aadrita Mukerji, known for her work on television series like Reacher and Supergirl, ensuring the story has a strong, character-driven foundation.

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The Uncertain Return of Julie Andrews (Queen Clarisse Renaldi)

For many fans, the heart of the franchise lies in the dynamic between Mia and her grandmother, Queen Clarisse Renaldi, played by the legendary Julie Andrews. Unfortunately, the status of Andrews’ return is the most heartbreaking update for the sequel.

Julie Andrews has stated that it is unlikely she will return for The Princess Diaries 3. The actress, who will be in her late 80s by the time the film goes into production, cited the significant time gap since the last film as a primary reason.

• Andrews' Quote: "I think we know that it's probably not going to be possible," she said, acknowledging the 20-year gap since Royal Engagement.
• Impact: The absence of the Queen of Genovia would fundamentally change the tone and focus of the new film, shifting the mentor-mentee dynamic to a story about Mia’s solo reign and her own path as Queen.

While hope remains that Andrews might make a cameo or a brief appearance, fans should prepare for a story that focuses on Queen Mia's life without her grandmother's constant guidance. This development will undoubtedly be a major emotional core of the sequel.

Will Chris Pine and Other Original Cast Members Return?

A true continuation of the story requires the return of key supporting characters who shaped Mia’s journey. While Anne Hathaway is confirmed, the status of other fan favorites remains in flux.

Chris Pine (Lord Nicholas Devereaux)

Chris Pine, who played Mia's love interest and eventual husband, Lord Nicholas Devereaux, in Royal Engagement, has been vocal about his willingness to return.

• Status: Pine is open to reprising his role as Nicholas Devereaux.
• Plot Implication: Given that Mia married Nicholas in the second film, his return is highly anticipated as it would explore their relationship as the King and Queen of Genovia.

Other Potential Returns

The new film will likely feature a mix of returning and new characters. Key figures from the original films whose return would provide topical authority and fan service include:

• Heather Matarazzo: As Mia's best friend, Lilly Moscovitz.
• Mandy Moore: As the original antagonist, Lana Thomas (a fan dream for a redemption arc).
• Larry Miller: As Mia's loyal security chief, Paolo (though his status is uncertain).

The casting process is expected to ramp up significantly once the 2025 filming schedule is locked, which should provide a flood of new entity confirmations.

The Likely Plot: Queen Mia’s Next Chapter

The most concrete plot detail is that the film will be a continuation, not a reboot. This means it will honor the events of the first two films and pick up with Mia as the crowned Queen of Genovia.

With nearly 20 years having passed in the real world, the story will likely explore the challenges of a modern monarch in her 40s. Possible storylines and plot details include:

• Succession and Family: A major theme is expected to be Mia’s family life. If Nicholas Devereaux returns, the plot could center on the challenges of raising a royal family, succession planning for the throne, or a royal wedding if the second film's ending is slightly retconned.
• Political Intrigue: Mia's role as Queen will inevitably involve political conflict, perhaps a threat to Genovian sovereignty or a new parliamentary challenge, mirroring the drama of the first two films.
• A New Protégé: Given the likely absence of Queen Clarisse, Mia may step into the role of the mentor, perhaps guiding a new, younger Genovian royal, which could introduce a fresh dynamic to the Princess Diaries universe.

The overall intention is to deliver a story that feels both nostalgic and fresh, satisfying the curiosity of long-time fans while introducing the magic of Genovia to a new generation of Disney viewers.