As New Princess Diaries 3 Details Have Emerged, I Have 4 Burning Questions About The Sequel

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After experiencing the delightful dose of early 2000s Disney nostalgia I’d been yearning for through Freakier Friday, I am genuinely excited for the upcoming release of The Princess Diaries 3, which has been officially greenlit by Disney. Anne Hathaway announced this news back in October 2024, with Crazy Rich Asians writer Adele Lim joining as director. With more details about the sequel emerging, my curiosity is piqued and I can’t help but wonder what it will bring.

Recently, Lim (who also helmed the underrated comedy Joy Ride and co-wrote Crazy Rich Asians and Raya and the Last Dragon, put out an open casting call on her Instagram, in search of the new young lead of the Princess Diaries 3. The Disney production is looking for a 15-year-old mixed race actor to play the role of Olivia Robinson, who is described as “smart, sarcastic, armored and observant” along with revealing details that the new lead will be dealing with the loss of her mother by creating a “prickly exterior,” but is ultimately a “natural born leader.” With these details in mind, I want to talk about what’s on my mind next as a longtime fan of these movies.

What Will Be Olivia’s Connection To The Original Movies?

Initially, I found myself puzzled over the identity of Olivia Robinson. Later on, I conducted some research and discovered that this character was first introduced in the 11th book of the “Princess Diaries” series by Meg Cabot. This book is titled “The Princess Diaries, Volume XI: Royal Wedding.” In this novel, Mia discovers she has a 12-year-old half sister named Olivia whom she tries to integrate into the family. This revelation offers an explanation for Olivia’s role in the story, but it’s important to note that adaptations of books and films can sometimes differ significantly.

In the same book, it’s mentioned that Mia is currently arranging a royal wedding with her long-term boyfriend, Michael Moskowitz – remember, he was her crush from the initial film but didn’t appear in the sequel. However, I should clarify that this doesn’t mean their relationship will be centered around them getting married as it wasn’t further developed beyond the first movie.

Indeed, it seems quite fitting for the sequel of “The Princess Diaries” to echo some elements of the initial storyline, where a teenager discovers she’s a princess. In this case, though, instead of learning from her grandmother, our protagonist would uncover her roots from a previously unknown sister. Given that Olivia has recently lost her mother, it could be heartwarming to observe how the series unfolds as she forms a new family with Mia.

Will Mia Be Mentoring Olivia To Become Princess Of Genovia?

I’m curious about Mia Thermopolis, played by Anne Hathaway, in the upcoming movie. Will she share the lead role with Olivia or take a secondary one? Given that Hathaway is part of the cast, it seems unlikely she won’t be a lead, but you never know. Regardless, I anticipate there will be some humorous scenes involving Olivia discovering her royal lineage and attempting to adapt to the formalities if she chooses to join the royal family.

The question on everyone’s mind is whether Mia will guide Olivia towards becoming Queen of Genovia or if she will continue as a princess without any clear route to a more prominent role. It remains uncertain whether Mia has children and what she has been doing since she chose not to marry but still took the throne. With nearly two decades having passed since the last The Princess Diaries movie, it’s anyone’s guess what Mia’s life looks like now.

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Did Mia Marry Chris Pine’s Nicholas From Princess Diaries 2?

Following the release of “The Princess Diaries 2,” Chris Pine’s character Nicholas Devereaux became a beloved romantic interest for Mia, due to the strong chemistry between Hathaway and Pine in the 2004 film. Over the years, fans have frequently asked Pine about this role, with the actor expressing his enthusiasm for the prospect, as it was his debut movie. With such affection for Mia and Nicholas, I’m hoping the writers catch on and develop them as a couple even now, but who knows? Perhaps Mia has moved on, reconnected with Michael, or simply had more important things to occupy her time than balancing marriage, queenhood, and romance all at once.

In addition, the third film could introduce Chris Pine’s character, with a reunion after a past split between them. This scenario would surely set my pulse racing as well. Given his captivating performance in the second movie, it seems that fans are eagerly awaiting this development, so I hope the writers are tuned into these desires.

Will Julie Andrews Be Involved?

Another intriguing question pops up regarding the upcoming film. Is there a chance Julie Andrews might return to her character? In an interview in early 2024, she mentioned being asked many times but also commented that it may be best not to disturb something perfect. She sounded pleased at the prospect of another movie, but didn’t seem optimistic about it happening.

The renowned actress, turning 90 in October 2025, is still active, focusing more on voice roles recently, such as those for “Bridgerton” and “Despicable Me.” Despite rumors of retirement, her enduring popularity makes a comeback likely. However, I’m curious about the extent of her involvement in any potential movie. Personally, I’d be thrilled to see more interactions between Hathaway and Andrews, but it remains uncertain. I can only hope she won’t be written off or killed off, as I’d feel let down if she doesn’t appear at all. Yet, I wholeheartedly respect her decision if she believes her film career has come to an end.

As a devoted cinephile, I’m thrilling at the prospect of the upcoming release of “The Princess Diaries 3,” though as of yet, there’s no set date. The casting process is in full swing, and I can hardly contain my excitement to find out who will be chosen for the roles. Once production begins, I’ll eagerly await any behind-the-scenes glimpses!

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2025-09-04 18:58