Julie Andrews Declines 'Princess Diaries 3' Role

Julie Andrews has confirmed she will not be reprising her role as Queen Clarisse Renaldi in the upcoming "The Princess Diaries 3." The 90-year-old acclaimed actress informed InStyle magazine that she turned down the offer to return for the long-awaited sequel, which is intended to follow the 2001 film "The Princess Diaries" and its 2004 follow-up, "Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement." Andrews stated that she believes she is retired from on-screen acting, explaining her decision to decline the part. She indicated that discussions and offers for her return had been ongoing for the past year. The original "The Princess Diaries," released in 2001, starred Anne Hathaway as Mia Thermopolis, a young American girl who discovers she is the heir to the throne of the fictional European principality of Genovia. Julie Andrews portrayed her estranged royal grandmother, Queen Clarisse, who guides Mia through her unexpected royal duties. The film was a commercial success, grossing over $165 million worldwide against a $26 million budget, and was praised for its charming performances and lighthearted story. Its sequel, "Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement," released in 2004, saw Hathaway's Mia Thermopolis facing pressure to marry within 30 days to be crowned Queen. Both films were directed by Garry Marshall, who passed away in 2019. The potential for a third installment has been a subject of discussion for many years, with both Hathaway and Andrews expressing interest in returning under the right circumstances. However, Andrews' recent statement solidifies her decision to step away from on-screen performances. While Andrews will not be appearing, Anne Hathaway is reportedly attached to the project, and the film is expected to move forward without her iconic presence. The specific plot details for "The Princess Diaries 3" have not yet been fully revealed, but it is understood to be a continuation of Mia Thermopolis's story. The absence of Julie Andrews marks a significant shift for the franchise, given her central role and memorable portrayal of the regal Queen Clarisse, which was instrumental to the charm and appeal of the first two films. Her decision underscores a personal choice to conclude her on-screen acting career, prioritizing her retirement.