Actress Anne Hathaway announced that Julie Andrews will not return for the upcoming film The Princess Diaries 3.
The absence of Andrews, who played Queen Clarisse Renaldi in the original series, marks a significant shift for the franchise as it attempts to revive the beloved story for a new generation.
Speaking at Disney’s D23 Expo in Anaheim, California, Hathaway said that efforts were made to secure Andrews for the production. The event is scheduled for Sept. 19-21, 2026 [2].
"We pushed really hard to bring Julie back for the sequel, but she’s decided to step away," Hathaway said [1].
Andrews, who is 90 years old [1], declined the role due to her preference to remain retired and concerns regarding the narrative direction of the new film [1]. She expressed uncertainty about how the production was handling the story, stating that she would stay retired [3].
Hathaway expressed her personal reaction to the news while maintaining respect for her former co-star's choice.
"I’m disappointed, but I respect Julie’s decision and wish her the best," Hathaway said [4].
The announcement comes as Disney continues to develop the third installment of the series. While Hathaway will return to her role as the lead, the production must now navigate the story without the original matriarch of the royal family.
“"We pushed really hard to bring Julie back for the sequel, but she’s decided to step away."”
The decision by Julie Andrews to remain retired presents a creative challenge for Disney. Because the chemistry between Andrews and Hathaway was a cornerstone of the original films, the writers will likely need to utilize a plot device—such as the character's death or a diplomatic absence—to explain the vacancy of the Queen's role while maintaining the emotional stakes of the sequel.
