Rick Moranis Returns to the Spotlight at CINEMACON as SPACEBALLS: THE NEW ONE Gets Official Title

The Schwartz returns as Rick Moranis takes center stage for Spaceballs: The New One.

The Schwartz is strong once again. During Amazon MGM Studios’ CinemaCon presentation, Mel Brooks revealed the official new title of the long-awaited sequel to the 1987 cult comedy classic Spaceballs. The new film will be called SPACEBALLS: THE NEW ONE and will arrive in theaters on April 23, 2027.

The announcement generated major excitement thanks to the long-overdue return of Rick Moranis, who reprises his iconic role as Dark Helmet. Moranis stepped away from on-screen acting for years, making this comeback especially meaningful for longtime fans of the beloved parody franchise.

A Legendary Comedy That Defined Parody Filmmaking

Released in 1987, Spaceballs quickly became one of Mel Brooks’ most iconic films by cleverly spoofing popular science fiction franchises, including Star Wars, Star Trek, and Alien. Brooks used satire to poke fun at Hollywood’s obsession with blockbuster spectacle, merchandising, and sequel culture, themes that remain relevant today.

Rick Moranis delivered one of the film’s most unforgettable comedic performances as Dark Helmet, a hilarious parody of Darth Vader. Moranis is widely known for beloved classics such as Ghostbusters, Honey, I Shrunk the Kids, and Little Shop of Horrors. His return to the big screen marks a major moment for fans who grew up watching his films.

Bill Pullman returns as Lone Starr, the charming rogue hero inspired by Han Solo. Pullman is also known for leading roles in Independence Day and While You Were Sleeping. Daphne Zuniga reprises her role as Princess Vespa, bringing back the strong-willed royal character audiences loved in the original film. Zuniga is also recognized for her work in Melrose Place and One Tree Hill.

Mel Brooks returns both behind and in front of the camera. In the original film, Brooks portrayed Yogurt, a wise parody of Yoda, as well as President Skroob, delivering some of the film’s most memorable jokes. George Wyner also returns as Colonel Sandurz, another fan-favorite comedic character from the original movie.

New Cast Members Expand the Galaxy

SPACEBALLS: THE NEW ONE introduces several new characters played by an impressive lineup of modern comedic talent. Josh Gad joins the cast while also serving as co-writer of the film. Gad is best known as the voice of Olaf in Disney’s Frozen and for his performances in Beauty and the Beast and The Book of Mormon.

Keke Palmer, known for standout roles in Nope, Hustlers, and Akeelah and the Bee, brings her strong screen presence to the expanding comedic universe. Lewis Pullman, recognized for Top Gun: Maverick and Bad Times at the El Royale, also joins the cast along with Anthony Carrigan, widely praised for his Emmy-nominated performance in Barry.

The identities of their characters remain secret, continuing the franchise tradition of surprising audiences with unexpected comedic twists.

Creative Team Honors Mel Brooks’ Legacy

Josh Greenbaum directs the sequel, bringing experience from comedy favorites such as Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar. The screenplay comes from Josh Gad, Dan Hernandez, and Benji Samit, whose previous credits include Pokémon Detective Pikachu and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem.

The film is based on characters created by Mel Brooks, Thomas Meehan, and Ronny Graham. Producers include Brian Grazer and Jeb Brody from Imagine Entertainment, Mel Brooks from Brooksfilms Limited, and Josh Gad from Angry Child Productions.

The Schwartz Awakens for a New Generation

Few parody films have achieved the lasting popularity of Spaceballs. Its clever humor and willingness to poke fun at blockbuster franchises helped establish it as one of the most quoted comedies of the 1980s. The sequel arrives during a time when legacy franchises dominate theaters, making the return of this beloved satire feel perfectly timed.

Plot details remain protected by what the studio jokingly describes as an “industrial-strength Schwartz shield.” However, the return of Rick Moranis alone signals that the film aims to recapture the spirit that made the original so beloved.

Fans can prepare to jump back into hyperspace when SPACEBALLS: THE NEW ONE lands in theaters April 23, 2027.

Film Details

Director: Josh Greenbaum
Writers: Josh Gad, Dan Hernandez, Benji Samit
Cast: Rick Moranis, Josh Gad, Keke Palmer, Lewis Pullman, Anthony Carrigan, George Wyner, Daphne Zuniga, Bill Pullman, Mel Brooks
Release Date: April 23, 2027

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