Ariana Grande Joins the Cast of the New "Meet the Parents" Movie Alongside Robert De Niro and Ben Stiller
After earning an Oscar nomination for her stunning portrayal of Glinda in Wicked, global pop sensation Ariana Grande is set to make her next major film appearance. The Grammy-winning artist will star alongside Hollywood legends Robert De Niro and Ben Stiller in the latest installment of Universal’s beloved comedy franchise, Meet the Parents.
Blythe Danner and Teri Polo, who reprised their roles in the original trilogy released in the early 2000s, are also expected to return, although their contracts are still in negotiations, according to insiders. The screenplay for this new film has been penned by John Hamburg, who co-wrote all three previous films, and he will also take the helm as director. Universal has officially scheduled the film for release on November 25, 2026. Jay Roach, the director of the first three films, will serve as a producer for this new chapter.
The original Meet the Parents introduced audiences to the relatable and comedic premise of seeking a father-in-law’s approval for a marriage proposal. Released in 2000, the film became a cultural phenomenon, grossing over $330 million worldwide and securing its place as the seventh-highest-grossing film globally that year. Ben Stiller’s comedic talent skyrocketed following the film’s success, while De Niro showcased his versatility by stepping out of his tough-guy persona.
The franchise continued with Meet the Fockers—featuring Dustin Hoffman and Barbara Streisand—and Little Fockers, collectively amassing over $1.13 billion at the global box office. While plot details for the upcoming film remain under wraps, sources reveal that it will center on Stiller and Polo’s son, who becomes engaged to an assertive woman seemingly unsuitable for him, with Grande portraying the fiancée.
Jane Rosenthal and De Niro will produce through Tribeca Productions, while Roach will produce via Delirious Media. Stiller will collaborate with John Lesher through Red Hour Films, and Hamburg will produce through Particular Pictures. Universal’s executive vice president of production development, Matt Reilly, and director of production development, Jacqueline Garell, will oversee the project.
Though Ariana Grande is now recognized as one of the best-selling music artists in history, her acting career began with a breakout role in Nickelodeon’s Victorious. Her recent performance in Wicked showcased her impressive acting abilities, earning her an Academy Award nomination, as well as Golden Globe, SAG, and BAFTA nominations for Best Supporting Actress. The film, which was released in November, grossed nearly $800 million worldwide and received a total of 10 Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, winning for Costume Design and Production Design.
Next, Grande will reprise her role as Glinda in Wicked: For Good, set to hit theaters on November 21, 2025. Despite receiving numerous film offers from major studios like Universal, Sony, and Warner Bros. in recent months, Grande has opted to decline them all, including a Warner comedy that would have allowed her to choose her co-star. It’s evident that the pop star is eager to embrace a comedic role, solidifying her status as a versatile talent in both music and film. She is represented by CAA, Good World Management, and Myman Greenspan.
Stay tuned for more updates on Ariana Grande’s exciting new project in the Meet the Parents franchise!
