Anne Hathaway drops a bombshell on Julie Andrews’ absence from The Princess Diaries 3

Fans of The Princess Diaries have been given a bittersweet update about the long-awaited third movie. Anne Hathaway has addressed Julie Andrews’ decision not to return as Queen Clarisse Renaldi, a role that became one of the most beloved parts of the original films.

Andrews recently confirmed that she will not appear in The Princess Diaries 3. The 90-year-old actress explained that she has essentially retired from on-screen acting and felt the new story could continue without her character. She also acknowledged that turning down the opportunity was difficult. (InStyle⁠)

Hathaway, who played Mia Thermopolis in the first two movies, has responded warmly when discussing her former co-star. Speaking with Entertainment Weekly, Hathaway described Andrews as a warm, gracious and funny person and reflected on the special connection they developed while making the original movies. (EW.com⁠)

For Hathaway, Andrews’ absence is particularly meaningful because the veteran actress played such an important role in her early career. Their relationship was not simply limited to the characters of Mia and Queen Clarisse. Andrews also became someone Hathaway admired and learned from.

Still, Hathaway has made it clear that the third movie is moving forward. During Disney’s D23 event on August 14, she reassured fans that the team is working hard to make sure the sequel feels right. She also thanked audiences for their patience as the project continues to develop. (Harper’s BAZAAR⁠)

The third installment has taken years to reach this stage. Adele Lim, known for Crazy Rich Asians, is directing the film, while Hathaway is returning as Mia and is also involved behind the scenes as a producer. The story has gone through changes, with an earlier version of the script being scrapped as the filmmakers searched for the right direction. (People.com⁠)

Andrews’ decision means fans will not see the familiar grandmother-granddaughter dynamic that helped define the first two movies. However, her legacy as Queen Clarisse remains a major part of the franchise.

While her absence may be disappointing, Hathaway appears determined to honor what made the original films special. The challenge now is creating a new chapter that feels familiar without simply repeating the past.

After more than two decades, Mia is finally heading back to Genovia. And although Queen Clarisse will not be there in person, the impact Julie Andrews made on the franchise is unlikely to disappear.