Owen Wilson has gracefully returned to the fold of the beloved Focker family. Currently captivating audiences in Apple TV+'s critically acclaimed series "Stick," the versatile actor is set to reunite with Ben Stiller and Robert De Niro for Universal Pictures' latest chapter in the iconic "Meet the Parents" comedy saga. Adding further star power to the mix is Teri Polo, who graced the screens in the original trilogy that debuted in the 2000s, along with Oscar-nominated pop sensation Ariana Grande, who brings a fresh face to the franchise.
John Hamburg, the mastermind behind the screenplays of all three preceding films, has penned the screenplay for this upcoming installment and will also take the director's chair. Universal Pictures has set a release date for November 25, 2026, while Paramount Pictures will collaborate as co-producer and handle international distribution.
The inaugural film, released in 2000, centered around Greg Focker (Stiller), a man on a mission to win the approval and blessing of his girlfriend's stern father. As the series evolved, it became a family affair, expanding its ensemble to include in-laws (Dustin Hoffman and Barbara Streisand joined the fray in 2004's "Meet the Fockers") and offspring (2010's "Little Fockers" introduced the next generation).
Wilson previously stole the show in the original film as the ex-fiancé of Polo's character, a wealthy, talented, and beloved figure adored by the parents. His character made memorable appearances in the sequels as well, and he will reprise this role once again. This move reunites him with Hamburg, who directed the last two episodes of "Stick."
While much of the plot for the new film remains tightly under wraps, "The Hollywood Reporter" can exclusively reveal that one pivotal storyline revolves around the son of Stiller and Polo's characters, who becomes engaged to a fiery woman who seems utterly unsuitable for him. Grande will portray this fiery fiancée.
Jane Rosenthal and De Niro are producing under their Tribeca Productions banner, while Roach will helm production through his Delirious Media. Stiller will produce alongside John Lesher via their Red Hour Films label. Hamburg will also produce through Particular Pictures.
Since his last big-screen appearance in 2023's box-office struggle "Haunted Mansion," Wilson has lent his voice to the character of Mobius in the second season of Disney+'s "Loki." He is represented by UTA and Hirsch Wallerstein.
