It’s time to comb the desert once again. Nearly 40 years after Mel Brooks introduced the world to the Ludicrous Speed hilarity of Spaceballs, a highly anticipated sequel is officially on its way. Amazon MGM Studios has locked in April 23, 2027, as the theatrical release date for the long-awaited follow-up.
Here is everything we know about the upcoming return to the Spaceballs universe.
Returning Legends
The most exciting news for longtime fans is the confirmation that several original cast members are returning to reprise their iconic roles.
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Rick Moranis: In a massive win for comedy fans, Rick Moranis is returning as Dark Helmet in what has been widely framed as his major live-action comeback.
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Mel Brooks: The legendary creator himself, who will be 100 years old when the film opens, is returning as the wise and merchandise-loving Yogurt. He also serves as a producer on the project.
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Bill Pullman & Daphne Zuniga: The ultimate space-faring power couple, Lone Starr and Princess Vespa, will be back on screen.
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George Wyner: Reprising his role as the ever-loyal Colonel Sandurz.
Fresh Faces Entering the Galaxy
Joining the returning cast is a stellar lineup of new talent aimed at injecting fresh comedic energy into the franchise:
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Josh Gad: Gad has spearheaded this project for years and will star in the film in addition to his heavy behind-the-scenes involvement.
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Lewis Pullman: Bill Pullman’s real-life son is reported to be playing Starburst, the son of Lone Starr and Vespa.
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Keke Palmer & Anthony Carrigan: Keke Palmer joins the cast as a character named Destiny, while Anthony Carrigan’s role has not yet been publicly detailed.
Behind the Camera
The film is a passion project for Josh Gad, who co-wrote the script alongside Dan Hernandez and Benji Samit (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem). Gad is producing the film alongside Mel Brooks, Imagine Entertainment’s Brian Grazer, Kevin Salter, Josh Greenbaum, and Jeb Brody.
Directing duties fall to Josh Greenbaum, known for his work on the absurdly funny Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Marand the documentary Will & Harper. With production having begun in September 2025 and wrapping up by December 2025, Greenbaum and the team have plenty of time to capture the irreverent, fourth-wall-breaking meta-humor that made the 1987 original a cult classic.
What’s the Plot?
While official plot details are currently being kept under tighter security than the air shield of Planet Druidia, the project has been cheekily described in development as a “Non-Prequel Non-Reboot Sequel Part Two but with Reboot Elements Franchise Expansion Film.” With four decades of new Star Wars trilogies, expanded universes, and endless franchise reboots to satirize, there is absolutely no shortage of material for Brooks, Gad, and the team to parody.
Prepare your Perri-Air and buckle up. The Schwartz returns to theaters on April 23, 2027.