Amazon just made comedy fans everywhere do a double-take. The company's MGM Studios division has officially greenlit a sequel to Mel Brooks' 1987 cult classic Spaceballs, bringing Rick Moranis out of semi-retirement for his first major film role in decades. The announcement comes with star-studded casting and a 2027 theatrical release date that marks 40 years since the original parody took aim at Star Wars.
The entertainment world just got a major surprise as Amazon MGM Studios announced it's officially moving forward with a long-awaited Spaceballs sequel, marking one of the year's most unexpected franchise revivals. The news broke with a table read photo showing the assembled cast, confirming that Rick Moranis will indeed return to major filmmaking after stepping back from Hollywood in the 1990s. For an actor who famously chose family over fame, this represents a seismic shift that has industry watchers buzzing about what convinced him to come back.
The original 1987 Spaceballs became a cult phenomenon by ruthlessly parodying Star Wars at the height of its cultural dominance. Now, with Disney having expanded that universe into a multimedia empire, the timing couldn't be more perfect for Brooks' brand of irreverent comedy. According to Amazon's official announcement, Moranis will reprise his role as the villainous Dark Helmet alongside franchise creator Mel Brooks, who returns as both President Skroob and the wise Yogurt.
The reunion extends beyond just the headline stars. Bill Pullman, Daphne Zuniga, and George Wyner are all confirmed to return, creating what amounts to a full-scale legacy sequel. But Amazon isn't just banking on nostalgia - they've assembled an impressive roster of contemporary comedic talent including Josh Gad, Keke Palmer, Lewis Pullman, and Anthony Carrigan. This blend of old and new suggests a film that respects its roots while updating the humor for modern audiences.
Directorial duties fall to Josh Greenbaum, whose work on "Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar" demonstrated his ability to handle ensemble comedy with distinctive visual flair. The screenplay comes from the writing team of Benji Samit, Dan Hernandez, and Josh Gad - a trio known for their work on successful animated projects. This creative combination hints at a production that understands both the original's satirical edge and contemporary comedy sensibilities.
The project represents a significant bet by Amazon on theatrical content, bucking the industry trend toward streaming-first releases. By scheduling a 2027 theatrical debut, Amazon MGM Studios signals confidence in the franchise's box office potential and its own distribution capabilities. This strategy aligns with Amazon's broader entertainment ambitions, which have seen the company invest heavily in Prime Video content while maintaining MGM's theatrical legacy.