The 98-year-old comedy icon Mel Brooks brings back the extraterrestrial giggles with a 2027 “Spaceballs” sequel. Alongside returning actors Rick Moranis and Bill Pullman, Brooks will play the iconic character of Yogurt once more in what Amazon MGM Studios wryly refers to as a “Non-Prequel Non-Reboot Sequel Part Two but with Reboot Elements Franchise Expansion Film.” Fans of the 1987 cult classic are going crazy over the announcement, demonstrating that the Schwartz is still going strong.
Hollywood’s Oldest Jedi Master Returns
Josh Greenbaum will direct the sequel, and the script will be written by Benji Samit, Dan Hernandez, and Josh Gad, who will also co-produce and star in the film. Gad has been instrumental in bringing this project to life, expressing his lifelong love for the original movie.
This was a legitimately hilarious way to reveal a Spaceballs sequel.
If this makes the announced 2027 release date, Mel Brooks will be around 101 years ago, which is remarkable. https://t.co/9ZQsLw2bGh
— Stefan Ellison (@MisterCoat) June 12, 2025
Brooks confirmed his return with his trademark humor: “After 40 years, we asked ‘What do the fans want?’ But instead, we’re making this movie.” The comedy legend hasn’t appeared in a film since his cameo in 2005’s “The Producers,” making this comeback particularly significant for his devoted fan base.
Mel Brooks Returning as Yogurt for 'Spaceballs' Sequel, Amazon MGM Sets 2027 Theatrical Release https://t.co/ZQAEMZGsoy
— Variety (@Variety) June 12, 2025
The sequel promises to parody the proliferation of “Star Wars” films and spinoffs that have dominated cinema since the original “Spaceballs” release. Keke Palmer has been announced as a new addition to the cast, though most character details remain wrapped as production begins.
From Cult Classic to Modern Sequel
The original “Spaceballs” was released in 1987, earning $38.1 million domestically, equivalent to about $105 million in today’s dollars. Over the decades, the film has gained a massive following and become one of Brooks’ most beloved comedic creations.
Brooks directed, wrote, produced, and starred in the original film, playing dual roles including the Yoda parody Yogurt. The sequel’s announcement was appropriately made with a parody of the “Star Wars” opening crawl, staying true to the franchise’s satirical roots.
The writing team brings significant experience in animated and comedy projects. Samit and Hernandez are known for their work on Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem and Pokémon Detective Pikachu. Their expertise in family-friendly humor aligns perfectly with the “Spaceballs” tone, which appeals to audiences across generations.
Merchandising, Merchandising!
Josh Gad previously teased the sequel’s development, sharing his enthusiasm about the script and casting efforts. The actor revealed his connection to the material: “I was that child who saw Spaceballs before I ever saw Star Wars and then wondered why anyone would do a dramatic remake of the Mel Brooks classic.”
“May the Schwartz be with you!” Brooks declared in the announcement, invoking the film’s most famous catchphrase. The production team includes industry veterans Brian Grazer, Jeb Brody, Josh Gad, Mel Brooks himself, and director Josh Greenbaum, ensuring the sequel receives the proper treatment it deserves.
Amazon MGM Studios focuses on theatrical releases, with an exact premiere date to be announced in the coming months. The studio’s commitment to a theatrical release rather than a streaming debut demonstrates confidence in the project’s ability to draw audiences back to cinemas for this long-awaited continuation.
Sources:
https://people.com/mel-brooks-98-reprise-spaceballs-role-sequel-11753441
https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/spaceballs-sequel-mel-brooks-1236263558/
https://nypost.com/2025/06/12/entertainment/mel-brooks-98-to-return-as-yogurt-in-spaceballs-sequel/