The strong performance of The Devil Wears Prada 2, following the success of Freakier Friday, is prompting discussions about Disney reviving another beloved female-led franchise: The Princess Diaries. Anne Hathaway has confirmed ongoing work on a third Princess Diaries film.

The Devil Wears Prada 2: A Critical and Commercial Hit

The highly anticipated sequel to the 2006 hit The Devil Wears Prada has arrived and is already garnering significant praise from both critics and moviegoers. The film currently holds a 77% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on critic reviews and an impressive 87% audience approval score, signaling a strong connection with viewers.

Initial box office projections suggest the sequel is on track to surpass the original film’s impressive $327 million global earnings within its first week of release. This success marks the second time in less than a year that Disney has achieved substantial success with a female-led legacy sequel.

Disney's Legacy Sequel Strategy

The first was Freakier Friday, released in August 2025, which grossed $153 million against a $45 million production budget. This pattern highlights a clear trend: Disney is finding a winning formula in reviving beloved franchises with returning cast members and appealing to both nostalgic fans and new audiences.

Renewed Focus on The Princess Diaries 3

Given this recent success, industry analysts and fans alike are turning their attention to another potential Disney revival: The Princess Diaries 3. This long-desired sequel has been a topic of discussion for over a decade, with a previous attempt at development being halted following the passing of director Garry Marshall in 2016.

However, Anne Hathaway, who is reprising her role in The Devil Wears Prada 2, has confirmed ongoing efforts to bring the third installment to fruition. While progress has been slow since 2024, the strong performance of both Freakier Friday and The Devil Wears Prada 2 provides compelling evidence that Disney should prioritize The Princess Diaries 3.

A Safe Bet for Disney?

The audience demand is demonstrably present, and with the recent fluctuations in the performance of traditionally reliable franchises like Star Wars and Marvel, revisiting the world of The Princess Diaries represents a relatively safe and potentially lucrative venture for the studio. It’s a project that promises to satisfy a dedicated fanbase and contribute positively to Disney’s financial results.

The success of these legacy sequels isn’t merely about nostalgia; it’s about offering audiences familiar characters and storylines with a fresh perspective. The return of beloved actors and the continuation of established narratives provide a sense of comfort and excitement. In a cinematic landscape increasingly dominated by sprawling universes and complex storylines, these films offer a welcome return to simpler, character-driven narratives.

The Devil Wears Prada 2, in particular, has resonated with audiences due to its exploration of themes of ambition, identity, and the challenges of navigating the modern workplace. The film’s ability to balance humor, drama, and social commentary has contributed to its widespread appeal. Furthermore, the recent passing of a character from the original film has added an emotional layer to the sequel, prompting reflection on the passage of time and the enduring power of relationships.

The anticipation surrounding the streaming release date is already building, indicating a continued interest in the franchise beyond its theatrical run. Disney’s strategic focus on these types of projects could prove to be a key differentiator in a competitive entertainment market. The potential for further sequels and spin-offs within these established universes is significant, offering a sustainable path for growth and audience engagement.