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Josh Gad Teams Up with Mel Brooks for ‘Spaceballs’ Sequel

Photo Credit: Jason Mendez / Getty Images and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer / Zayne / MovieStillsDB
Photo Credit: Jason Mendez / Getty Images and Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer / Zayne / MovieStillsDB

The development of a sequel to the beloved classic space opera parody, Spaceballs, has officially been announced. Amazon MGM Studios is backing the film, with good ol’ Mel Brooks, at the ripe age of 97, slotted to help its production. This news has fans of the original 1987 film buzzing with excitement as they eagerly anticipate its return.

Josh Gad to lead and produce the sequel

Mel Brooks, Rick Moranis, and George Wyner in 'Spaceballs'
Spaceballs‘ will finally have its long-awaited sequel. (Photo Credit: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer / Zayne / MovieStillsDB)

Josh Gad, acclaimed for his performances in Broadway’s The Book of Mormon and as the voice of Olaf in the Frozen franchise, is set to take on both starring and producing roles in the upcoming Spaceballs sequel. Gad shared his excitement on Instagram, saying, “We are very excited! Early days still, but working with the legendary Mel freaking Brooks to make something worthy of this franchise and his legacy has been a dream come true.” He emphasized the dedication of the team, stating that they “worship at the altar of all things Brooks” and are committed to delivering a film that fans have been waiting for 37 long years.

The screenplay has been crafted by Benji Samit, Dan Hernandez, and Gad himself. Samit and Hernandez are renowned for their work on films such as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, Pokemon Detective Pikachu, and The Addams Family 2, ensuring a talented writing team is behind this much-anticipated sequel.

Celebrating a comedy classic

Headshot of Mel Brooks.
Mel Brooks attends the “Spaceballs” screening during the 2024 TCM Classic Film Festival at TCL Chinese Theatre on April 21, 2024, in Hollywood, California. (Photo Credit: Presley Ann / Getty Images for TCM)

The original Spaceballs, directed and co-written by Mel Brooks, featured a stellar cast including Bill Pullman as Lone Star, John Candy as Barf, Daphne Zuniga as Princess Vespa, Rick Moranis as Lord Dark Helmet, and Brooks in the dual roles of President Skroob and Yogurt. The film, which humorously parodied the Star Wars saga and other sci-fi favorites like Star Trek and Alien, never saw a follow-up—until now.

While plot details for the sequel are still under wraps, the involvement of Brooks and Gad promises to maintain the essence of the original. Gad’s social media post highlights the team’s commitment to staying true to Brooks’ comedic vision and delivering a film that meets the high expectations of longtime fans.

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Further information regarding the cast and plot is expected to be unveiled as the project progresses. For now, fans of Spaceballs can celebrate the news that a sequel is finally in the pipeline, with new adventures and humor that honor the spirit of the original film. Keep an eye out for more updates as this exciting project moves forward.

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June Steele

June Steele is one of the authors writing for The Vintage News