Julie Andrews Steps Away From "The Princess Diaries 3"

Julie Andrews, acclaimed cinematic icon, revealed to InStyle magazine that she would not be returning for "The Princess Diaries 3" alongside Anne Hathaway. The venerable 90-year-old declined the invitation to reappear as Queen Clarisse in the much-anticipated sequel to the successful 2001's "The Princess Diaries" and 2004's "Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement.”

Andrews, about choosing to step away from on-screen acting, mentioned, “They approached me throughout last year, asking if I would be interested. I found it incredibly difficult to turn them down, but I decided to do so because I believe I've had a splendid run, and I was convinced that the sequel would do well without the need for my character traveling in at my age.”

Consequently, Andrews has not engaged in on-screen acting in a considerable time. However, she has lent her voice to various characters in movies such as “Minions: The Rise of Gru,” “The King’s Daughter,” and “Aquaman,” as well as in TV shows like “Bridgerton.” She enjoys narrating the successful Netflix series as Lady Whistledown because it allows her to record her lines from the comfort of her own home.

Disney confirmed in November 2022 their plans to advance "The Princess Diaries" franchise with a third installment, written by Aadrita Mukerji. However, Andrews voiced doubts about her return to the sequel.

Anne Hathaway, who will be reprising her role as Mia Thermopolis, the now Queen of Genovia in the upcoming sequel, expressed her desire to include Andrews in the project through the use of green screens. Unfortunately, Andrews maintained her decision to step away. Adele Lim has signed on to direct "The Princess Diaries 3".

“The Princess Diaries 3”, with its production and shooting schedule currently being finalized, does not yet have a declared release date. The original film and its sequel grossed a cumulative $299 million globally at the box office despite receiving mixed reviews.