Mel Brooks Filmed Spaceballs Sequel Early Due to Age

You better film me now because I’m 100, Mel Brooks told his crew before demanding his scenes for the upcoming sequel be shot ahead of the rest of the production, star Daphne Zuniga revealed.

The comedy icon who wrote and directed the original 1987 Star Wars parody shaped the direction of Amazon MGM Studios’ upcoming Spaceballs: The New One before completing his own camera work early due to his age.

Production details and casting insights emerged as the April 23, 2027 theatrical release approaches. Brooks reached his milestone 100th birthday on June 28, 2026. Principal photography wrapped by December 1, 2025, ahead of an April post-production phase.

Daphne Zuniga Details Mel Brooks On-Set Influence at 90s Con

Speaking at a Melrose Place panel during 90s Con in Hartford, Connecticut, Zuniga shared behind-the-scenes insights into how the production handled the filmmaker. We filmed Spaceballs: The New One that Mel Brooks worked with the writers on. He’s a big influence in it, Zuniga stated during the panel.

Zuniga returns to her role as Princess Vespa, joining returning original cast members Bill Pullman as Lone Starr and Rick Moranis as Dark Helmet. George Wyner also reprises his role, while Brooks returns as both Yogurt and President Skroob.

The expanded ensemble features new additions led by Josh Gad, alongside Keke Palmer, Anthony Carrigan, and Lewis Pullman, who is reportedly playing the son of his real-life father’s character. Josh Greenbaum directs the project from a script co-written by Gad, Dan Hernandez, and Benji Samit.

Amazon MGM Studios Schedules April 2027 Theatrical Release

Amazon MGM Studios has officially slated the film for release on April 23, 2027. The studio has jokingly characterized the project as a non-prequel, non-reboot sequel with reboot elements.

Brooks first confirmed the project in a social media teaser clip that parodied the iconic Star Wars opening crawl by referencing decades of cinematic sequels and expanded universes, including 36 MCU movies. At the end of the promotional video, Brooks appeared wearing a sweater featuring the slogan SPACEBALLS THE SWEATSHIRT and told viewers, After 40 years we asked what do the fans want… but instead, we’re making this movie.