Nearly four decades after the cult classic "Spaceballs" first hit theaters, fans of Mel Brooks’ irreverent sci-fi parody have reason to celebrate: a sequel is officially on the way. Amazon MGM Studios confirmed on June 12, 2025, that "Spaceballs 2" will arrive in theaters in 2027, reuniting much of the original cast alongside fresh faces and a new creative team, promising a blend of nostalgia and new adventures in a galaxy far, far away — or at least a galaxy that lovingly mocks it.
Mel Brooks, now 99 years old, is reprising his beloved role as Yogurt, the wise and quirky parody of Yoda who first appeared in the 1987 original. Brooks’ return is a major highlight, especially since he stepped back from acting in recent years. His involvement lends a sense of authenticity and continuity to this long-anticipated follow-up. As Brooks put it in a social media video announcing the project, "After 40 years, we asked, 'What do the fans want?' But, instead, we're making this movie. May the Schwartz be with you." The teaser closed with the tantalizing phrase, "The Schwartz awakens in 2027," a cheeky nod to the "Star Wars" sequel trilogy and an indication of the sequel’s playful tone.
Joining Brooks are original stars Bill Pullman and Rick Moranis, who will reprise their iconic roles as Lone Starr and Dark Helmet, respectively. Moranis’ return is particularly notable given his long hiatus from major film roles since the late 1990s, when he stepped away from acting to focus on family. His comeback has been a major draw for longtime fans eager to see the villainous Dark Helmet back in action. Daphne Zuniga will also return as Princess Vespa, bringing back another familiar face from the original ensemble.
The sequel also introduces new characters played by rising stars. Keke Palmer, fresh off successes like "One of Them Days" and upcoming projects with Amazon and Lionsgate, will portray a character named Destiny. Adding a familial twist to the cast, Lewis Pullman, son of Bill Pullman and known for his recent role in Marvel’s "Thunderbolts," is in talks to play Starburst, the son of Queen Vespa and Lone Starr. This casting choice hints at a generational story arc, blending legacy characters with new blood.
Behind the camera, the film is directed by Josh Greenbaum, known for "Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar." The screenplay is penned by Benji Samit, Dan Hernandez, and Josh Gad, who is also producing and expected to star in the film alongside Palmer and Lewis Pullman. Gad expressed his enthusiasm on Instagram, recalling, "I was that child who saw 'Spaceballs' before I ever saw 'Star Wars' and then wondered why anyone would do a dramatic remake of the Mel Brooks classic. It is therefore the greatest gift of my life to now help take the reins and work alongside Mel and this incredible group to do a sequel to the movie that first inspired George Lucas." The production team also includes Brian Grazer and Jeb Brody, with several executive producers supporting the project.
The filmmakers are keeping plot details tightly under wraps, but the film has been humorously described as "A Non-Prequel Non-Reboot Sequel Part Two but with Reboot Elements Franchise Expansion Film." This tongue-in-cheek description suggests the movie will both honor and expand the original universe without being bogged down by traditional sequel tropes. The teaser’s reference to "The Schwartz Awakens" hints at inspiration from the "Star Wars" sequel trilogy, likely blending classic characters with new heroes learning the mystical power of the Schwartz.
Fans of the original "Spaceballs" will remember it as a sharp, affectionate parody that skewered not only "Star Wars" but other sci-fi staples like "Star Trek," "2001: A Space Odyssey," and "Alien." Despite a modest box office performance in 1987—grossing just over $38 million—the film quickly gained cult status, thanks to its witty script and memorable characters. Iconic lines, quirky characters like John Candy’s Barf, and Joan Rivers’ voice work as Dot Matrix helped cement its place in pop culture.
Over the years, the idea of a sequel has lingered in the background. Rick Moranis first pitched "Spaceballs III: The Search for Spaceballs II" back in 2013, and Mel Brooks himself teased a follow-up titled "Spaceballs 2: The Search for More Money" in 2015. Bill Pullman also expressed interest in revisiting the franchise as recently as 2020. The official announcement by Amazon MGM Studios last year, followed by the recent cast confirmations and teaser, have finally made the sequel a reality.
Given the passage of time and the evolution of the sci-fi genre, the new "Spaceballs" promises to be both a nostalgic tribute and a fresh comedic take. With original stars returning, new talent joining the cast, and a creative team passionate about honoring the spirit of the original, anticipation is high. As Brooks said, "May the Schwartz be with you"—and with the sequel slated for 2027, fans can finally prepare to return to the hilarious, zany universe that first made them laugh nearly 40 years ago.
