16 March 2024 , 21:13
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Julie Andrews has issued an update on the future of the Princess Diaries movie franchise.
The award-winning actress, 88, starred in the film series that first hit cinemas in 2001. She starred as Queen regent of Genovia alongside Anne Hathaway, who played her estranged high school student granddaughter Mia Thermopolis. Two films have been released, as Julie's character reconnected and prepared Mia for the crown after she discovered her royal background.
Back in 2022, it was reported the Princess Diaries would be hitting screens once more for a new installment. It was claimed the third film would be a continuation of the series rather than a reboot. In 2019, Hollywood actress Anne revealed a script for a third movie had been written and she wanted to be part of it.
However, Julie has since revealed the plans have been "shelved". Appearing on US show Today, the Mary Poppins star 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. I don’t like it when people milk and milk and milk the subject, you know, ‘til it’s dead."
Julie starred alongside Anne Hathaway in the films (PA)She said 'dialogue' had happened for a third movie, but "nothing had been realised". Julie added: "I think I may be wrong, but I think it’s been shelved now – I can’t be sure." Speaking on Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen in 2019, Anne revealed: "There is a script for the third movie. There is a script. I want to do it. Julie [Andrews] wants to do it. Debra Martin Chase, our producer, wants to do it. We all really want it to happen."
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She added that the team doesn't want to do it if it isn't 'perfect' as "we love it just as much as you guys love it". "It’s as important to us as it is to you, and we don’t want to deliver anything until it’s ready, but we’re working on it," Anne added. Mandy Moore, who played cheerleader Lana Thomas, wanted to take part in a third movie.
She admitted Lana would need a redemption arc as she said: "She’s done a 180, she’s turned her life around and she and Mia become really good friends. So, I would be game, I mean Anne Hathaway, Julie Andrews, like that was such a pivotal, seminal moment in my life. I would love, love, love to join those ladies again, anytime, but I also understand if there’s no room for my awful character."
The second installment in the franchise saw Mia search for Prince Charming before finally falling in love with Nicholas Deveraux, played by actor Chris Pine. Royal Engagement ends with a newly-appointed Queen Mia opening a children's home.