10 Upcoming Legacy Sequels That Are Finally Almost Here

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A legacy sequel picks up the story of an older movie or series many years later. It features both familiar actors from the original and new characters, continuing the existing story instead of starting over. This approach combines the appeal of the past with a new, modern narrative.

Over the last decade, we’ve seen a trend of revisiting classic movie franchises with new sequels – think recent films like *Mad Max*, *Halloween*, and *Ghostbusters*. Here’s a look at 10 of those long-awaited sequels that are coming soon.

‘Devil Wears Prada 2’ (May 1, 2026)

The movie *The Devil Wears Prada*, first released in 2006, quickly became a favorite among audiences. It tells the story of a young woman, played by Anne Hathaway, who lands a job at a high-fashion magazine and has to navigate the challenges of working for a very strict boss, Miranda Priestly, portrayed by Meryl Streep. The film was both a commercial and critical success.

Although people had been talking about a possible sequel since 2013, Walt Disney Studios didn’t officially begin considering its development until July 2024.

The Devil Returns

The follow-up movie will be based on the book *Revenge Wears Prada: The Devil Returns*. Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, Tracie Thoms, Tibor Feldman, and Stanley Tucci are all returning to their original roles. David Frankel will direct again, and Aline Brosh McKenna is writing the screenplay.

‘Scary Movie 6’

June 12, 2026

The *Scary Movie* series is unusual. While critics haven’t often praised it, the films have consistently attracted a dedicated audience who enjoy their over-the-top, silly humor. However, the fifth movie, released in 2013, signaled trouble for the franchise. It was the first not to feature stars Anna Faris and Regina Hall, and it received extremely negative reviews (only 4% on Rotten Tomatoes) and performed poorly at the box office, indicating the series was losing its appeal.

The Wayans Brothers Return

The latest installment, *Scary Movie 6*, brings back original stars Anna Faris and Regina Hall. It also marks the first time since the first two films that Marlon, Shawn, and Keenan Ivory Wayans have participated in the making of a *Scary Movie* movie.

Marlon thinks it would be funny to make a parody of recent horror movies like *Get Out*, *Nope*, *Longlegs*, *Heretic*, and *Sinners*. He also suggests parodying classics like *Scream* and *I Know What You Did Last Summer*, which were already spoofed in a previous film.

‘Practical Magic 2’

September 18, 2026

Practical Magic is a romantic fantasy movie about sisters Sally and Gillian Owens, who come from a family of witches. After their parents died due to a family curse, they were raised by their aunts and taught how to use practical magic. As adults, they must use this magic to defeat the dangerous spirit of Gillian’s former abusive boyfriend, who threatens their lives.

The movie wasn’t a big hit when it first came out and critics had varying opinions. However, it’s slowly gained a dedicated following of fans who love its unusual mix of genres – it’s part supernatural fantasy, part drama about difficult relationships, with elements of romance, comedy, and even a crime story.

Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman Will Be Reprising Their Roles

As a huge fan of Alice Hoffman’s work, I’m really excited about the new movie based on her novel, *The Book of Magic*. It’s a continuation of the original story, and it looks like the Owens family – across all generations – is coming together to finally break this really old curse that’s kept them from finding love. From what I understand, it’s going to be a magical adventure where they have to face their history and rediscover the strength they find in family and, of course, love.

Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman are returning to play the sisters in the film, along with Stockard Channing and Dianne Wiest. Joining them will be Joey King, who will play Sally’s daughter.

‘Focker In-Law’

November 25, 2026

As a comedy fan, I remember when *Meet the Parents* came out – it was *huge*. Everyone was quoting it, and critics and audiences alike loved it. They made two sequels, *Meet the Fockers* and *Little Fockers*, and while those movies definitely made money, they just didn’t have the same spark as the original, you know? They weren’t nearly as funny.

Ariana Grande Will Be Joining the Cast

More than 15 years after the last film, Robert De Niro, Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson, Blythe Danner, and Teri Polo are returning to their roles. Ariana Grande is also joining the cast. Though the story is still under wraps, many believe Grande will play the love interest of Greg’s son, hinting at a new generation of the Focker family following a similar storyline to the original movies.

‘Shrek 5’

December 2027

Shrek completely changed the landscape of family animation. DreamWorks cleverly took the successful formula of Disney – beautiful animation, heartwarming stories, and beloved characters – and added a layer of humor that appealed to adults as well, with witty jokes and subtle themes. Combined with fantastic voice performances from Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, and Cameron Diaz, Shrek is undeniably a groundbreaking and exceptional film.

The series continued with three additional films, and DreamWorks introduced some new characters to revitalize it. The most popular addition was Puss in Boots, voiced by Antonio Banderas, who eventually starred in his own series of films.

The Trailer Left Many Feeling Disappointed

As a huge fan of the *Shrek* movies, I, like a lot of people, was so excited when I heard they were making another one after 15 years! We were all eagerly awaiting a new trailer, imagining where Shrek and Donkey would go next. But honestly, when the trailer finally dropped, it was a bit of a letdown. The new Shrek looks… different. They’ve smoothed him out and redesigned him so much that he barely resembles the lovable, rough-around-the-edges ogre we all grew up with.

After a few setbacks – which fans are hoping mean DreamWorks is perfecting Shrek to stay true to the character we all adore – it’s now confirmed that *Shrek 5* is scheduled to be released in theaters next December.

‘The Resurrection of the Christ’ (Part One and Two)

2027

Mel Gibson’s film, *The Passion of the Christ*, tells the story of Jesus’s arrest, trial, and crucifixion, closely following the accounts in the Bible. Despite—or perhaps because of—its graphic depiction of these events, the film was both a major box office success and one of the most debated movies ever made.

Mel Gibson Is No Stranger to Controversy

As a longtime movie fan, I was surprised to hear Mel Gibson is planning not one, but *two* sequels to “The Passion of the Christ” – they’re called “The Resurrection of the Christ: Part One” and “Part Two.” Apparently, they’ll cover what happened after the incredibly intense crucifixion we saw in the first film. Jaakko Ohtonen will be playing Jesus, and Mariela Garriga is set to reprise her role as Mary Magdalene. Knowing Gibson and the original’s impact, I’m guessing these new films will definitely stir up some debate – and honestly, I think he’s probably used to that by now!

‘Bend It Like Beckham 2’

2027

Bend It Like Beckham is a lighthearted British comedy about two friends, Jesminder Bhamra and Jules Paxton, who dream of becoming professional soccer players, even though their families disapprove. While it’s a charming romantic comedy at its heart, the film also explores important issues like racism, women finding their strength, staying true to your culture, and the bonds of love and loyalty.

Gurinder Chadha Hopes To Release the Sequel To Coincide with the 2027 Women’s World Cup

Despite being made with a relatively small budget of about $5.6 million, the film was a box office success, earning $76.6 million and receiving a high 85% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Director Gurinder Chadha announced in July 2025 that a sequel is planned, with hopes of bringing back the original actors and featuring appearances from players on the England women’s football team. The sequel is currently aiming for a 2027 release, timed to coincide with the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil and the 25th anniversary of the first film.

‘The Princess Diaries 3’

Release Date TBA

Released in 2001, *The Princess Diaries* tells the story of Mia Thermopolis, a shy and ordinary teenager. Her life changes dramatically when she finds out she’s a princess! Mia, played by Anne Hathaway in her first major film role, is suddenly thrust into royal life and must learn how to be a princess with the help of her grandmother, the current queen. She then has to decide if she wants to accept the throne or give up her claim to it.

The Original Gave Anne Hathaway Her Breakout Performance

The first *Princess Diaries* movie was a surprising success, launching Anne Hathaway’s career and leading to the 2004 sequel, *The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement*. Now, more than twenty years later, a third movie is in the works with Anne Hathaway returning as Mia. Details are scarce, but it’s expected to be released either later in 2024 or sometime in 2026.

‘Ocean’s 14’

Release Date TBA

The 2001 film *Ocean’s 11*, a remake of a 1960 movie, has proven very successful, spawning two sequels and a spin-off featuring an all-female cast. George Clooney recently announced that *Ocean’s 14* has been greenlit and is likely to begin production next year, and he hinted that Brad Pitt will reprise his role.

Beyond George Clooney’s recent comments, details about the new film are scarce. However, audiences can probably anticipate the same witty dialogue, stylish look, and captivating blend of charisma and clever robbery themes that made the first movie so memorable.

‘Priscilla, Queen of the Desert 2’

Release Date TBA

The 1994 film *Priscilla*, written and directed by Stephan Elliott, tells the story of two drag queens (Hugo Weaving and Guy Pearce) and a transgender woman (Terence Stamp) traveling across the Australian Outback. They journey from Sydney to Alice Springs on a tour bus named ‘Priscilla,’ encountering quirky characters and getting into wild adventures along the way.

I was so impressed with this film! It’s primarily a comedy, but what really stood out to me was how respectfully it approached drag and transgender stories. It never relied on cheap jokes, and instead offered a genuinely positive and heartwarming look at LGBTQ+ lives. I think it’s a fantastic way to introduce these important themes to a wider audience, and it really touched me.

A New Chapter

Director Stephan Elliot aims to surprise audiences with the upcoming sequel. He’s shared that the film tackles the realities of aging, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community – a topic he feels hasn’t been addressed before. While the original cast is expected to return and funding is in place, a firm release date hasn’t been announced yet.

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2025-10-19 18:51