Ariana Grande joins ‘Meet the Parents’ sequel, set for fall 2026 release at Universal
Following Wicked’s massive success, Ariana Grande reunites with Universal for hit comedy franchise reboot.
Straight from the global success of Wicked: Part One, Ariana Grande is set to join another major studio franchise. The Grammy winner and Oscar-nominated actor will lead the next installment Meet the Parents, out on November 25, 2026, reports Deadline.
The film reunites stars from the first film, Robert De Niro, Ben Stiller, Teri Polo, and Blythe Danner, with director John Hamburg, also co-writer. Details of the story and participation by Grande are under wraps, though insiders speculate the film is ranked high on Universal's priority list following the success of Wicked.
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Franchise returns with star power and familiar faces
Meet the Parents was a global box office hit when it debuted in 2000, grossing over $330 million and becoming one of the highest-grossing films of that year. Its sequels, Meet the Fockers and Little Fockers, brought the global total of the franchise to over $1.13 billion. Universal is betting the new movie will build on that success with Grande's casting and the return of the original hit ensemble.
The film is produced by Jane Rosenthal and Robert De Niro through Tribeca Productions, Jay Roach through Delirious Media, Ben Stiller and John Lesher through Red Hour Films, and Hamburg through Particular Pictures. Universal's Matt Reilly and Jacqueline Garell will oversee development.
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Grande reunites with Universal after ‘Wicked’ breakout
Ariana Grande's critically acclaimed role as Glinda in Wicked made her one of the most sought-after stars in Hollywood. The film grossed nearly $800 million globally, earned 10 Oscar nominations, and won for Costume and Production Design. Grande received nominations from the Oscars, BAFTAs, SAG Awards, and Golden Globes for her supporting role.
Grande is represented by CAA, Good World Management, and Myman Greenspan Fox Rosenberg & Light LLP. Her next role in Meet the Parents signals a continued partnership with Universal, which is betting on her star power to elevate another beloved franchise.
