Exciting News: New Sequel to Meet the Parents in the Works
Universal Pictures is set to revive the beloved franchise with a new sequel to Meet the Parents. This project promises to bring back the original star-studded cast and is generating significant anticipation among fans.
Creative Team Behind the Sequel
John Hamburg, known for his work on the comedy film Me Time, is in negotiations to assume the director’s role. Hamburg, who has an impressive history with the franchise as a writer for the initial film released in 2000 and its two sequels, will also craft the screenplay for this latest installment. While plot specifics remain under wraps, the excitement is palpable as the key actors return.
Returning Cast Members
The familiar faces of Robert De Niro, Ben Stiller, Teri Polo, and Blythe Danner are set to reprise their iconic roles. This reunion of the original cast is a nod to the fans who have cherished these characters for over two decades.
Production Team and Oversight
The production team is comprised of notable industry veterans, including:
- Robert De Niro and Jane Rosenthal for Tribeca Productions
- Jay Roach from Delirious Media
- Ben Stiller and John Lesher of Red Hour Films
- John Hamburg representing Particular Pictures
Universal’s Matt Reilly, the executive VP of production development, alongside Jacqueline Garrell, the director of production development, will oversee the film’s development at the studio.
Historical Success of the Franchise
The original Meet the Parents film, directed by Jay Roach, tells the story of Greg Focker (played by Stiller), a nurse struggling to impress his girlfriend’s intimidating father, Jack Byrnes (portrayed by De Niro). This 2000 release grossed over $330 million worldwide. Its sequel, Meet the Fockers, released in 2004, achieved even greater success, amassing $522 million at the global box office. The third installment, Little Fockers, directed by Paul Weitz, debuted in 2010.
Hamburg’s Previous Comments
In a 2022 interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Hamburg remained intentionally vague about the possibility of a sequel at the time but expressed his fondness for the team involved: “I will refrain from discussing that question, but I love everybody involved, and we all are still in touch,” he stated.
Industry Representation and First Reports
Hamburg is represented by WME and Sloss Eckhouse. The announcement of his potential directorial role was first reported by Deadline, further fueling the excitement surrounding this upcoming film.
As we look forward to more details on this project, it is clear that the Meet the Parents franchise is poised to entertain a new generation of audiences while delighting long-time fans.