Los Angeles, California — Months after receiving an Oscar nomination for her role in “Wicked,” internationally renowned pop artist Ariana Grande has secured her next film project. The Grammy award-winning singer will star alongside Hollywood heavyweights Robert De Niro and Ben Stiller in the latest installment of Universal’s beloved comedy franchise, “Meet the Parents.”

Blythe Danner and Teri Polo, who played prominent roles in the original trilogy released in the early 2000s, are expected to return, although final contracts are still pending. John Hamburg, who penned the previous three films, has written the screenplay for this new entry and will also take on directing duties. The film is set to premiere on November 25, 2026, with original director Jay Roach serving as a producer.

The initial film captivated audiences with its simple yet relatable premise: the often awkward encounter between a man and his potential father-in-law prior to marriage. Released in 2000, the film received both critical acclaim and commercial success, grossing over $330 million worldwide. Stiller emerged as a leading comedic figure following the film’s release, while De Niro, known for his tough-guy persona, demonstrated his range and appeal in comedic roles.

The franchise’s subsequent films, “Meet the Fockers” and “Little Fockers,” also proved profitable, with a total franchise gross exceeding $1.1 billion. While specific plot details for the new film remain tightly guarded, insiders have revealed that the storyline revolves around Stiller and Polo’s characters’ son, who becomes engaged to a woman deemed unsuitable by his family. Sources indicate that Grande will portray the outspoken fiancée.

Producers for the project include Jane Rosenthal and De Niro through Tribeca Productions, while Roach will produce via Delirious Media. Stiller’s production efforts will be in collaboration with John Lesher under Red Hour Films, and Hamburg will bring his production acumen through Particular Pictures. Universal’s executive team, including Matt Reilly and Jacqueline Garell, will oversee the project.

Although Grande is recognized today as one of the most successful musical artists, her acting career began with her role in the Nickelodeon television series “Victorious.” More recently, her portrayal of Glinda in “Wicked” showcased her talent and garnered her critical accolades, including an Academy Award nomination and several prestigious nominations for best supporting actress.

The film “Wicked,” released in November, has amassed nearly $800 million globally and secured ten Academy Award nominations, including for Best Picture. It won Oscars for costume and production design, bringing Grande significant recognition in both music and acting spheres.

Following her role in “Wicked,” Grande is set to reprise her character in “Wicked: For Good,” slated for release on November 21, 2025. Despite receiving multiple film offers from Universal, Sony, and Warner Bros. in recent months, she opted to focus on comedic projects, highlighting her determination to carve out a distinct path in her film career.

Represented by CAA, Good World Management, and Myman Greenspan, Grande’s enthusiasm for comedy signals her commitment to diversifying her talents beyond the music industry. As she embarks on this new cinematic journey, fans eagerly anticipate her humorous collaboration with iconic figures in the upcoming comedy.