Genovia Calling: Anne Hathaway and Princess Diaries Cast Set for Epic Third Chapter
Elena West here with a powerhouse update that feels like a game-changer for every fan of royal fairytales and Hollywood comebacks. Today we celebrate not only the original Princess Diaries anniversary but also the thrilling news that Mia Thermopolis is primed to reclaim her crown in a brand-new sequel.
Exciting confirmation arrived in October 2024 when Crazy Rich Asians screenwriter Adele Lim revealed she will direct the third Princess Diaries film. In her statement Lim shared that she is “beyond excited to be a part of bringing the third iteration of this beloved franchise to life.” She emphasized that audiences worldwide can expect a story that honors its core themes of female power, joy, and mentorship. This announcement was reported by E! Online and quickly echoed by Entertainment Tonight, proving Hollywood is ready to revisit the fictional kingdom of Genovia.
The heartbeat of this series, Anne Hathaway, originally debuted as awkward teen Mia in the 2001 Disney hit. Now at age 42, the future Oscar winner teased her comeback in an Instagram video captioned “Miracles happen. Back to Genovia with @adeleblim @disney @somewherepictures. The fairytale continues.” That post, spotlighted by E! Online and Variety, confirmed that Hathaway is ready to trade in her Devil Wears Prada stilettos for a royal tiara once again.
Chris Pine, who charmed audiences as Mia’s love interest in the second film, also expressed eagerness to return. On Today he said he “would love to come back.” These dual declarations from two A-list stars give this project serious momentum and generate buzz across social media networks, from Instagram to TikTok.
Not every original cast member will be on board. Mandy Moore, who played school rival Lana Thomas in the first movie, told Us Weekly in 2022 that her character’s future in Genovia seems unlikely. Moore admitted she loved filming the original but doubted Lana’s arc would fit into a third installment. Similarly, Julie Andrews shared on Access Hollywood in 2022 that at age 89 it may not be feasible for Queen Clarisse Renaldi to reprise her role.
Despite these potential cast shifts, the story’s foundation remains solid. The film’s anniversary on August 3 serves as a reminder that Princess Diaries sparked millions of imaginations with its message that leadership, self-confidence, and unexpected destiny can redefine a life. Anne Hathaway has gone on to earn acclaim in Les Misérables, The Dark Knight Rises, and Ocean’s Eight. Mandy Moore has achieved Emmy nominations for This Is Us and voiced Disney’s Rapunzel in Tangled. Julie Andrews continues to grace stages and screens around the globe.
With Adele Lim at the helm, Disney’s upcoming sequel aims to blend nostalgia with fresh perspectives on sisterhood, identity, and empowerment. Fans should watch for casting updates, filming locations, and release windows that will arrive in early 2025.
Strap in for a royal revival that proves dreams evolve but never fade. Elena West signing off—keep that inner crown polished and stay tuned for every regal reveal.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and E! Online, Us Weekly, Access Hollywood, Today, Instagram
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
