Ariana Grande is about to shake things up in a franchise known for awkward in-law jokes and outrageous family drama. Universal Pictures has brought her into the fold for the next chapter in the Meet the Parents series, which has reliably delivered cringe-worthy comedy for more than two decades. This marks Grande’s first big movie move since starring in 'Wicked: Part One,' cementing her rising presence in Hollywood beyond the music charts.
She’s joining a seasoned team. Ben Stiller returns as the permanently anxious Greg Focker, and Robert De Niro as the intimidating father-in-law Jack Byrnes—both roles that have become pop culture touchstones. Fangirls and old fans alike can expect to see Teri Polo and Blythe Danner reprising their familiar characters, while director John Hamburg is once again steering the ship after writing and directing all three previous films.
This new sequel comes at a perfect time: the 25th anniversary of the wildly successful original. Since the first 'Meet the Parents' debuted in 2000, the films have raked in more than $1.13 billion at the global box office with their blend of slapstick humor and relatable family meltdown moments. The upcoming installment is still untitled and the plot is staying tightly under wraps, but everyone expects more dysfunctional family antics between the Fockers and Byrneses. After the 2010 release of 'Little Fockers,' the fourth movie will try to recapture that signature spark—but now with Ariana Grande in the mix.
No one’s spilling the beans about her character yet. Insiders say Universal jumped to bring her onboard because her work in 'Wicked' proved she can carry a film and deeply connect with wide audiences. The studio clearly sees Grande’s crossover appeal—her keen sense for comedy on social media, devoted fan base, and even Oscar buzz that’s followed her lately.
While the story remains a mystery, fans have started buzzing about how the writers might blend classic running gags (like the famous lie detector scene) with the energy of new cast additions. Grande’s role could be anything from a next-generation family member to a wild card outsider stirring trouble at Thanksgiving. Whatever the part, she’s sure to inject fresh chemistry—and plenty of headlines—into a series eager to claim its place with both old-school comedy addicts and a newer crowd raised on viral moments and streaming hits.
With its release date set for November 25, 2026, this sequel promises the kind of big-screen chaos that only an extended family gathering (and a pop superstar in the cast) can deliver. Expect more leaks and wild theories as filming gets underway and details finally trickle out.