'The Princess Diaries 3' update: Author Meg Cabot blames Anne Hathaway for filming delay

Speaking at BookCon 2026 in NYC, Cabot confirmed that filming has yet to begin due to Hathaway’s packed schedule

Production on The Princess Diaries 3 remains in development, with scheduling dependent on Anne Hathaway’s availability, according to comments made by author Meg Cabot.

Speaking at BookCon 2026 in New York City on April 19, Cabot confirmed that filming has yet to begin due to Hathaway’s current workload. “I don't know when they're going to film it because Anne Hathaway, as you've probably seen, is making a million movies right now.”

DIÁRIOS DA PRINCESA 3 VEM AÍ!! 👑💖

Meg Cabot compartilhou histórias incríveis e confirmou: o terceiro filme está oficialmente acontecendo! Um castelo já foi reservado e o elenco está definido.

Agora, tudo depende da nossa rainha Anne Hathaway, que está com a agenda lotada de… pic.twitter.com/XBdx3kt5zF

— Anne Hathaway Brasil 👠 (@annehathawaybrs) April 19, 2026

The long-anticipated sequel, which has been in development since 2022, is expected to continue the story of Mia Thermopolis as Queen of Genovia.

Despite delays, Cabot expressed optimism about the project’s progress and future release timeline.

“One of these days she's going to go to the castle that we have actually rented and is sitting there waiting ... for Toronto castle and I've not been invited but I cannot wait to go to the next premiere. Movie number 3, it's going to be amazing,” she said. She also thanked fans, adding, “I want to thank you all for being supportive of Genovia.”

The upcoming film is set to be directed by Adele Lim, with Hathaway reprising her role as Mia Thermopolis.

The original film, released in 2001, featured Chris Pine and Mandy Moore, both of whom have expressed interest in returning. Julie Andrews, who played Queen Clarisse Renaldi, has not yet confirmed her involvement.

Hathaway’s schedule includes several major releases in 2026, including Mother Mary, The Devil Wears Prada 2, The Odyssey, Flowervale Street, and Verity, contributing to the delay in filming.