Ariana Grande Joins Ben Stiller and Robert De Niro in New Meet the Parents Sequel, Focker-in-Law
A new installment in the beloved Meet the Parents franchise is heading to theaters, bringing back original stars Ben Stiller and Robert De Niro alongside a surprising new addition: pop superstar ariana Grande. Focker-in-Law is slated for release on November 25, 2026, marking over 15 years since the last film, Little Fockers.
The news emerged following Stiller’s recent appearance on The View, where he shared insights into the upcoming project. According to Stiller, Grande’s comedic timing and talent have already made a significant impression on set. “She’s amazing, what a brilliant comedic actress, just an amazing person,” he stated.
The sequel promises a role reversal of sorts, with Stiller’s character, Greg Focker, now navigating the challenges of having his own children meet a potential partner – a situation mirroring the dynamic Jack byrnes, played by De Niro, previously experienced.”I’m the age that Robert De Niro was when we did the first movie,” Stiller explained. “So Greg focker is kind of going through that same experience of having his kids [and] meet someone they like.”
The cast will also include returning favorites Teri Polo, blythe Danner, and Owen Wilson. Joining Grande are rising stars Skyler Gisondo, known for his role in Superman, and Beanie Feldstein, celebrated for her performance in Booksmart. Grande’s casting comes on the heels of her critically acclaimed, Oscar-nominated performance in Wicked and the forthcoming wicked: For Good. Stiller previously lauded Grande’s professionalism and versatility, noting to E! News that she “amazingly blended in” and is delivering a “very unique character” in the film.
The possibility of Barbra Streisand and Dustin Hoffman reprising their roles as Greg’s parents, Bernie and Roz Focker, remains unconfirmed.
Fans of the original films will be eager to see if the sequel revisits iconic moments, such as the infamous “milk anything with nipples” scene. When asked about potentially revisiting such humor, a host on The View directly inquired if Stiller planned to “milk anything” in the new film, referencing the memorable exchange with De Niro.
Focker-in-Law promises to deliver a fresh take on the franchise while honoring the comedic legacy that has captivated audiences for over two decades.
Why: A new Meet the Parents sequel, titled Focker-in-Law, is being produced to revive the popular comedy franchise after a 15-year hiatus.
Who: Ben Stiller and Robert De Niro are reprising their roles as Greg Focker and Jack Byrnes, respectively. Ariana Grande, Skyler Gisondo, and Beanie Feldstein are joining the cast alongside returning actors Teri Polo, Blythe Danner, and Owen Wilson.
What: The film will explore a role reversal, with Greg focker now facing the challenges of his children meeting a potential partner, mirroring Jack Byrnes’s previous experiences. The plot will feature a blend of familiar comedic elements and fresh storylines.
How did it end?: Production is underway, with a release date set for November 25, 2026. The film aims to honor the franchise’s comedic legacy while introducing a new generation of actors and storylines. The return of Barbra Streisand and Dustin Hoffman is still uncertain.
