Is ‘Princess Diaries 3’ just not going to include one of the top 3 most important cast members?

The announcement of The Princess Diaries 3 has reignited excitement among Millennials who fondly remember the original films. Anne Hathaway’s portrayal of Mia Thermopolis has made her a beloved figure, and the prospect of returning to Genovia is tantalizing for fans.

The original The Princess Diaries debuted in 2001, followed by a sequel in 2004, which notably featured a young Chris Pine as Lord Nicholas Devereaux. Since then, Pine’s career has skyrocketed, particularly after his role as Captain James Tiberius Kirk in the Star Trek franchise. His early appearance in The Princess Diaries adds a nostalgic layer to the sequel, making it seem almost essential for him to reprise his role if the project goes forward.

Despite Pine’s enthusiasm for the sequel—he expressed support for the film on Today With Hoda & Jenna—he revealed that he had yet to receive a call from Disney about his involvement. His comments highlight a blend of disappointment and optimism, noting that perhaps this isn’t the end of the conversation regarding his return. “Call Disney. Call [Disney CEO] Bob Iger. Honestly, I don’t know anything about it. I think it’s fantastic,” he said, underscoring his eagerness to be part of the project.

Anne Hathaway has also mentioned that the development of the sequel is taking time, which is common in the film industry. This indicates that there’s still potential for Pine’s involvement in the future.

As for the production side, Deadline recently reported that Adele Lim has been attached to direct the film. Lim is well-known for her work on Raya and the Last Dragon and Crazy Rich Asians, and she expressed her excitement about bringing this beloved franchise to life. Her vision appears to align with the core themes of the series, including female empowerment and mentorship, which could resonate well with audiences.

The anticipation surrounding The Princess Diaries 3 is fueled not only by nostalgia but also by the film’s potential to offer an escapist narrative in a world filled with challenges. Mia’s transformation from an awkward teenager to a future queen embodies a dream that many can relate to. Pine’s casting would enhance this dream scenario, as he continues to be a heartthrob in Hollywood, making his absence in the sequel all the more poignant.

Regardless of the specifics about the cast or storyline, fans are eager to see what The Princess Diaries 3 will bring. The combination of beloved characters and a fresh perspective from a new director offers a promising outlook for the film’s future. We’ll all be tuning in to see how Mia’s story unfolds once again in the third installment.