Julie Andrews Won’t Return for The Princess Diaries 3

TLDR: Julie Andrews will not be returning as Queen Clarisse in the third sequel, The Princess Diaries 3.

Queen Clarisse Won’t Be Returning

Julie Andrews has confirmed that she will not reprise her beloved role as Queen Clarisse Renaldi in the upcoming The Princess Diaries 3. After appearing in both previous films, the legendary actress has decided it is time for the franchise to move forward without her character.

Speaking to Today.com, Andrews explained that the next chapter should focus on Anne Hathaway’s Princess Mia. She believes Mia’s journey has always been at the heart of the story and that the third film should allow her character to take centre stage.

“I’m not going to be in it,” Andrews said. “I think the story has to continue in Princess Mia. It’s her story. It’s not really mine.”

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Julie Andrews Was Nevertheless Approached Repeatedly in Reprising Her Role

Andrews also revealed that the filmmakers approached her several times about returning. However, she ultimately told the creative team that she was retired and felt the new movie could flourish without Queen Clarisse.

The actress described her time with the franchise as a “wonderful ride,” suggesting that she is happy to leave the kingdom of Genovia in the hands of its next generation.

Remembering The Princess Diaries as an Icon

Directed by Garry Marshall and based on Meg Cabot’s novel series, The Princess Diaries premiered in 2001. The film introduced audiences to Mia Thermopolis, an ordinary San Francisco teenager who unexpectedly discovers that she is heir to the throne of the fictional kingdom of Genovia.

Anne Hathaway and Julie Andrews returned for the 2004 sequel, The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement, further developing the relationship between Mia and her royal grandmother.

A New Chapter for Genovia Beckons

Andrews had previously expressed doubts about returning when The Princess Diaries 3 was confirmed in 2022. With her decision now clear, the upcoming sequel is set to begin a new chapter centred on Princess Mia and the future of Genovia.