The Royal Comeback: Julie Andrews and Anne Hathaway on the Enduring Quest for Princess Diaries 3

The enchanting world of Genovia, a realm where tiaras and diplomatic charm reign supreme, has held a special place in the hearts of millions since the early 2000s. Fans have eagerly awaited the possibility of a return to this beloved kingdom, and central to this longing is the iconic presence of Dame Julie Andrews. Known for her timeless grace and captivating performances, Andrews, who portrayed the dignified yet spirited Queen Clarisse Renaldi, recently shared her thoughts on reprising her role in a potential third installment of The Princess Diaries series. While her affection for her on-screen granddaughter, played by the equally celebrated Anne Hathaway, remains as strong as ever, Andrews candidly expressed her reservations about the timing, musing, “I’m getting awfully old and crotchety. I’m not sure if it’s the right timing, but I think to work with Annie [Hathaway] would be lovely again.”

This sentiment, shared during an April 27 episode of CBS’ The Talk@Home, reignited discussions among devotees of the franchise. For many, the prospect of seeing the formidable Queen Clarisse once more guide Mia Thermopolis through the labyrinthine complexities of royal life is an irresistible thought. Julie Andrews’ conditional enthusiasm – “And yeah, sure I would be up for it,” she affirmed, but crucially added, “we should wait if the script comes in — just wait for that” – highlights the primary hurdle currently facing The Princess Diaries 3: the elusive perfect script.

The Elusive Script: Anne Hathaway’s Optimism and Julie Andrews’ Pragmatism

The discussion around a third Princess Diaries film isn’t new; it’s a conversation that has simmered for years, fueled by both the cast and the unwavering fanbase. Anne Hathaway, the radiant star who brought Mia Thermopolis to life, offered a tantalizing glimpse into the project’s status back in January 2019. During an appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen, Hathaway confirmed that “there is a script for the third movie.” She further delighted fans by stating that both Julie Andrews and producer Debra Martin Chase were on board, emphasizing that the team was committed to perfection: “We don’t want to unless it’s perfect because we love it just as much as you guys love it.”

Hathaway’s revelation, while exciting, seemed to come as a surprise to Andrews herself. When appearing on the same talk show in October of that year, Andrews acknowledged that “there’s been talk about [a third movie] for quite a while” but implied that she hadn’t yet seen a definitive script. This subtle disconnect between the stars’ understanding of the script’s progress has only added to the mystery and the anticipation surrounding the project. Meanwhile, Hathaway provided an exclusive update to HollywoodLife in May 2019 at the premiere of her film The Hustle, confirming that the movie’s fate was “in Disney’s hands.” This suggests that while a script may exist, its development and greenlighting process are still navigating the corporate channels of the entertainment giant.

A Royal Legacy: Why The Princess Diaries Still Resonates

The enduring popularity of The Princess Diaries films is a testament to their charm, wit, and heartwarming narrative. The first film, released in 2001, introduced audiences to Mia Thermopolis, an awkward San Francisco teenager whose life is irrevocably altered when she discovers she is the sole heir to the throne of Genovia. Under the strict but loving tutelage of her grandmother, Queen Clarisse Renaldi, Mia embarks on a journey of self-discovery, learning not only how to be a princess but, more importantly, how to embrace her true self. Julie Andrews’ portrayal of Queen Clarisse was nothing short of regal, offering a perfect blend of stern guidance and profound affection, making her an unforgettable mentor.

Its successful reception paved the way for the 2004 sequel, The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement. In this installment, Mia, having completed her princess training, faces the challenge of marrying within 30 days to ascend the throne. Queen Clarisse Renaldi, showing profound wisdom and love for her granddaughter, ultimately relinquishes her crown, allowing Mia to take the throne on her own terms, without the constraint of marriage. This empowering narrative resonated deeply with audiences, celebrating independence and female leadership. The films are celebrated for their positive messages about identity, self-worth, and the importance of female mentorship, themes that remain incredibly relevant today.

Nearly two decades have passed since Mia became the Queen of Genovia at just 21 years old. The vast time jump naturally ignites the collective imagination of fans who are desperate to know: What has Queen Mia been up to? How has Genovia fared under her reign? Has she found love, perhaps with Chris Pine’s Nicholas Devereaux, or someone new entirely? What challenges has she faced, and how has she evolved as a monarch and a woman? These unanswered questions are precisely why the demand for The Princess Diaries 3 continues to be so fervent.

Navigating the Challenges of a Long-Awaited Sequel

Bringing back a beloved franchise after such a significant hiatus presents a unique set of challenges. One of the primary considerations is crafting a story that respects the legacy of the original films while also offering something fresh and relevant for contemporary audiences. The world has changed dramatically since 2004, and Genovia, too, would need to reflect that evolution, perhaps subtly addressing modern societal issues through its unique lens.

Another crucial element is the narrative arc for the characters. Mia Thermopolis, who was last seen embracing her role as Queen, would now be in her early forties. Her journey would inevitably involve different kinds of challenges – perhaps political intrigue, family dynamics (does she have children to mentor?), or the pressures of maintaining a modern monarchy in an ever-changing world. Queen Clarisse, a character renowned for her wisdom and elegance, would also need an engaging storyline, perhaps as a wise elder stateswoman or simply enjoying a well-deserved retirement, still offering sage advice when needed. The dynamic between Clarisse and Mia has always been the heart of the series, and preserving that chemistry is paramount.

The passing of director Garry Marshall in 2016 also casts a significant shadow. Marshall was instrumental in shaping the heartwarming tone and humor of the first two films, and finding a director who can capture that same magic while bringing a new vision would be a delicate task. Furthermore, assembling the original cast, including other fan-favorites like Mandy Moore (Lana Thomas), Heather Matarazzo (Lily Moscovitz), and Sandra Oh (Vice Principal Gupta), would be a huge undertaking, though their presence would undoubtedly amplify the nostalgic appeal and delight fans.

Hopes for Princess Diaries 3: What Could the Future Hold for Genovia?

Despite the hurdles, the potential for The Princess Diaries 3 remains incredibly exciting. A new film could explore themes of enduring female leadership, the complexities of balancing public duty with private life, and the continued evolution of a woman who was thrust into royalty. Perhaps Mia finds herself mentoring a new generation of Genovian royals, drawing parallels to Clarisse’s initial guidance of her. Or maybe she faces a constitutional crisis that forces her to make difficult decisions, further solidifying her reign and legacy.

Fans undoubtedly hope for a story that maintains the signature blend of humor, romance, and empowering messages. The unique charm of Genovia – its whimsical traditions, the elegance of its palace, and the warmth of its people – must be preserved. A new chapter could offer a fresh perspective on the “happily ever after,” demonstrating that being a monarch is not just about fairytale endings, but about continuous growth, responsibility, and the unwavering commitment to one’s people. Most importantly, the return of Julie Andrews and Anne Hathaway, with their undeniable chemistry and profound respect for their characters, would ensure that the heart and soul of The Princess Diaries remain intact.

The Waiting Game Continues for a Royal Reunion

As the conversation continues to swirl around The Princess Diaries 3, one thing is clear: the desire for a royal reunion is palpable. Julie Andrews’ affectionate yet cautious stance reflects a commitment to quality that both she and Anne Hathaway share. They want to ensure that any new installment lives up to the high standards set by its predecessors and truly honors the beloved characters and their journey. While the wait for that perfect script continues, the enduring hope among fans and the genuine interest from the leading ladies themselves keep the dream of returning to Genovia very much alive. For now, we await Disney’s next move and the moment when that coveted script finally lands on Julie Andrews’ desk, hopefully paving the way for Mia and Clarisse to once again grace our screens with their unique brand of royal magic.