Julie Andrews Won’t Return for ‘The Princess Diaries 3’: Here’s Why

Julie Andrews has confirmed what many The Princess Diaries fans feared: she will not return as Queen Clarisse Renaldi in The Princess Diaries 3. The 90-year-old actress, who played Mia Thermopolis’ stern but loving grandmother in the first two films, has shifted her focus to other creative projects.

Andrews has not fully retired. However, she has stepped away from traditional on-camera roles. Instead, she now focuses on writing books, developing podcasts and lending her voice to various projects.

When asked about The Princess Diaries 3, Andrews made her position clear. She does not feel that returning to the role fits where she is in her career today.

“I don’t think I should be part of it at this point,” Andrews explained, effectively ruling out a reunion with Anne Hathaway on screen.

While Andrews will not return, Anne Hathaway will reprise her iconic role as Mia Thermopolis. Hathaway recently offered an encouraging update on the long-awaited sequel, revealing that the filmmakers have finally found the right direction for the script.

Adele Lim will direct the third installment, while Meg Cabot, who wrote the novels that inspired the original films, has also supported the new direction.

Disney has not revealed the full plot or announced a release date yet. However, the sequel is expected to continue Mia’s story as she takes on her responsibilities as the ruler of Genovia.

Andrews’ decision will leave a noticeable gap in the franchise. Queen Clarisse became one of its most memorable characters, while her relationship with Mia supplied much of the warmth and humor that audiences loved in the first two movies.

Still, Andrews’ decision allows the filmmakers to move ahead without asking the actress to return to a role that no longer suits her current career.

Her absence may disappoint longtime fans, but her performance as Queen Clarisse remains a key part of The Princess Diaries legacy. The character helped shape Mia’s journey and became one of the defining elements of the beloved Disney franchise.

For fans who hoped to see Andrews and Hathaway share the screen one more time, that reunion will not happen in The Princess Diaries 3. Nevertheless, Andrews’ Queen Clarisse will continue to hold a special place in the hearts of fans who grew up with the films.