In an announcement that has fans swooning, Disney is officially reviving the beloved franchise with The Princess Diaries 3. Anne Hathaway is set to return as the iconic Mia Thermopolis and take on a dual role as producer, promising a delightful journey back to Genovia. 

Directed by Adele Lim, known for her impressive work on Crazy Rich Asians and Joy Ride, this new installment is poised to blend nostalgia with fresh storytelling. Lim is bursting with excitement over the project, emphasizing her commitment to celebrating themes of female empowerment and mentorship that resonate throughout the series. 

"As a die-hard fan of the original Princess Diaries, I'm beyond excited to be a part of bringing the third iteration of this beloved franchise to life," Lim recently told The Hollywood Reporter. "We look forward to celebrating its core tenants of female power, joy, and mentorship with audiences worldwide." 

Scheduled to begin filming next year, The Princess Diaries 3 is set to rekindle the magic that enchanted audiences in the 2001 original and its charming sequel in 2004. Original producer Debra Martin Chase is also returning, ensuring that the film retains the heart and humor fans love.

Could Chris Pine Be Headed Back to Genovia?

Fans are buzzing with excitement about the possibility of Chris Pine returning as the dashing Nicholas Devereaux. During an appearance on the Today show (Oct. 8),  he was asked about his potential involvement. 

"I don't know anything," he told co-hosts Hoda Kotb and Jenna Bush Hager. "Call Disney. Call Bob Iger. I don't know anything about it." 

This has only fueled the speculation – will Nicholas and Mia reignite their romance, or will Mia face new royal challenges alone? Fans are hoping for Pine's return, as the chemistry between him and Hathaway is undeniable. 

If Disney taps the A-lister for the highly anticipated film, he said he would jump at the opportunity. 

"I think it's fantastic," he pointed out. "I would love to come back." 

This is far from the first time Pine has expressed his gratitude toward The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement. He previously revealed that the film changed his life and elevated his acting career. 

"I was driving on the freeway – it was the height of summer – and I got a call from my agents that I booked the job," he recalled on Sunday Sitdown with Willie Geist. "I pulled over onto the side of the freeway, and they said, 'You're getting paid $65,000.' It was like they'd just told me I'd made $50 million. It was absolutely earth-shattering. I just remember distinctly knowing in that moment that my life had changed somehow," he added about landing the role of heartthrob Nicholas Devereaux. 

Fans In A Frenzy

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Anne Hathaway (@annehathaway)

The announcement of The Princess Diaries 3 has sent fans into a frenzy, reigniting their passion for the series. From Mia's awkward teenage days to her royal evolution, audiences have grown attached to her journey and can't wait to see what's next. 

Hathaway took to social media over the weekend (Oct. 5) to share the exciting news. She combined nostalgic clips of Mia and her grandmother, portrayed by Julie Andrews, as they delivered their iconic line, "shut up." The film's recognizable track, "Miracles Happen (When You Believe)," played in the background as Hathaway held up three fingers to signify the third installment. 

Superfans flocked to the comments to share the excitement and theories. 

"Welcome back, QUEEN Amelia Mignonette Thermopolis Renaldi," wrote Disney's official account. "Already seated queen 🍿👑" said Kelly Clarkson. "Can you HEAR ME SCREAM," shared a fan. "We've missed you, your majesty!" added actor and content creator, Kalen Allen. 

As fans eagerly await more details, many hope Lim's direction will capture the charm, warmth, and heartfelt empowerment that defined the first two films. The blend of nostalgia and new adventures has the potential to create a movie that not only honors the originals but also introduces a new generation to the magic of Genovia.

So, what do you think? Will The Princess Diaries 3 live up to the legacy?