More than two decades after the beloved The Princess Diaries films launched the fairy‑tale career of Anne Hathaway, The Princess Diaries 3 is officially in the works at Disney, with pre‑production underway in 2025. Industry reports confirm that Adele Lim—known for writing Crazy Rich Asians and directing Joy Ride—has been tapped to helm the third installment . Filming is expected to begin in earnest after location scouts toured Europe, including the Czech Republic, searching for castles that could serve as the fictional kingdom of Genovia.

Anne Hathaway is confirmed to reprise her iconic role as Mia Thermopolis, now Queen of Genovia, and will also serve as a producer under her Somewhere Pictures banner 5. In an October 2024 social media post, Hathaway celebrated the news with the caption “Miracles happen… Back to Genovia,” marking her return to the character who made her a star in the early 2000s . Fans worldwide cheered as the franchise was officially revived, more than twenty years after the second film’s release in 2004.

The screenplay has evolved under Flora Greeson, who stepped in to write the current draft, following early drafts by Aadrita Mukerji. Longtime series producer Debra Martin Chase returns to shepherd the project, with executive producers Naia Cucukov and Melissa Stack joining the team . While specifics of the storyline remain under wraps, the creative team has emphasized that the film will uphold the franchise’s core themes of female empowerment, joy, and mentorship—hallmarks of its nostalgic appeal.

Rumors suggest several original cast members are eager to return. Heather Matarazzo and Mandy Moore have expressed interest in reprising their roles as Lilly and Lana, while Chris Pine, who played Nicholas Devereaux, has joked about being unaware of his involvement and jokingly pitched ideas like a Luca Guadagnino‑style reimagining. Julie Andrews’ return as Queen Clarisse remains uncertain; though she has previously said she would be thrilled, she also indicated in interviews that she is largely retired and unsure about returning after so many years .

The production’s recent “castle shopping” in the Czech Republic has fueled speculation about Genovia’s visual transformation. Reports highlight the country’s wealth of well‑preserved castles and financial incentives, positioning it as a smart alternative to the English estates used for the second film . Although filming has not yet begun and no release date has been set, the project is now firmly in the pipeline, much to the delight of longtime fans.

As anticipation builds, many hope Princess Diaries 3 will explore Mia’s evolution as a modern monarch balancing royal duty, personal identity, and perhaps new romantic or political challenges. With Hathaway and Lim committed to the vision, and nostalgia firmly in tow, the Genovian story continues—promising a blend of heart, humor, and royal sparkle for a new generation.