For nearly forty years, the idea of a Spaceballs sequel existed in the same realm as Half-Life 3 and world peace—something people joked about but never actually expected to happen. Mel Brooks himself spent decades deflecting questions, occasionally joking that he might make Spaceballs 3: The Search for Spaceballs 2 just to mess with interviewers. And yet, against all odds, against all logic, and possibly against the better judgment of several studio executives, Spaceballs: The New One is officially happening.
The title was unveiled at CinemaCon in April 2026, and it immediately broke the internet in that specific way that only Mel Brooks can. Fans had spent years assuming the sequel would be called Spaceballs 2: The Search for More Money—a direct reference to the original film’s fourth-wall-breaking joke about sequels. But Brooks, now 99 years old and still sharper than most people half his age, had other plans. He joked that they weren’t using The Search for More Money because, and I quote, “I found the money! It was in my basement.” Not even joking, apparently. The money was in his basement.
The cast reads like a fever dream of nostalgia and new blood. Bill Pullman returns as Lone Starr, the Han Solo pastiche who flew a Winnebago through space. Rick Moranis comes out of retirement to reprise Lord Dark Helmet, the Darth Vader parody whose helmet was comically oversized and whose temper was even bigger. Daphne Zuniga is back as Princess Vespa, now presumably Queen Vespa after four decades of marriage to a space bum. Mel Brooks himself returns as both Yogurt and President Skroob, because at 99, why not play two roles?
Joining the original crew is Josh Gad, who co-wrote the screenplay and appears in an undisclosed role. Keke Palmer plays Destiny, a new character who will presumably bring some much-needed modern energy to the Schwartz-wielding chaos. Lewis Pullman—yes, Bill Pullman’s actual son—plays Starburst, the offspring of Lone Starr and Vespa, which is either brilliant casting or nepotism so shameless it circles back around to being brilliant. Anthony Carrigan and George Wyner round out the returning cast, with Wyner reprising his role as Colonel Sandurz.
Josh Greenbaum directs, taking the reins from Brooks, who is producing alongside Brian Grazer through Imagine Entertainment. Principal photography wrapped in December 2025 after filming in Sydney, Australia, which apparently doubled for whatever planet Spaceballs takes place on. The film is scheduled for release on April 23, 2027, giving audiences just enough time to rewatch the original and remember why “Ludicrous Speed” is still funny after four decades.
What makes this sequel genuinely exciting rather than just another nostalgia grab is Brooks’ involvement. He’s not just cashing a check; he’s actively shaping the project, ensuring that the spirit of the original—irreverent, self-aware, and willing to mock both Star Wars and Hollywood itself—remains intact. At an age when most people are content to yell at clouds, Brooks is making a space comedy.
The original Spaceballs was released in 1987, during a period when Star Wars had gone dormant and sci-fi parody felt fresh. Today, with Star Wars more ubiquitous than ever and every franchise getting the spoof treatment, the landscape is different. But if anyone can cut through the noise with genuine wit, it’s the man who gave us Blazing Saddles, Young Frankenstein, and the original Spaceballs.
May the Schwartz be with us all. We’re going to need it.
Prepare for ludicrous speed—see Spaceballs: The New One in theaters April 23, 2027, and may the Schwartz be with you.
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