Ariana Grande to Join the Cast of Upcoming ‘Meet the Parents 4’
Following her recent Oscar nomination for her portrayal of Glinda in the much-anticipated film adaptation of Wicked, pop icon and actress Ariana Grande is set to transition into a new role, officially joining the cast of Meet the Parents 4. Esta film continues the beloved franchise, which has captured audiences’ hearts since the release of the original film in 2000, exemplified by its exploration of family dynamics and the complexities of romantic relationships.
Grande will star alongside established talents Ben Stiller and Robert De Niro, both of whom are returning to their roles in the popular series. The Meet the Parents franchise, produced by Universal Pictures, has generated over .1 billion in global box office revenue to date. This financial success underscores the franchise’s lasting appeal and its ability to resonate with audiences through situational comedy and relatable family scenarios.
Although specific details regarding the plot remain closely guarded, longtime producer Jane Rosenthal offered intriguing hints about the storyline. She noted that the film’s narrative arc will incorporate themes of generational change, as Stiller’s character has reached the same life stage that De Niro’s character was at during the first film. “Stiller is now the same age that [De Niro] was when we did the first one, and his kids have grown up, and they have to come home and meet the parents,” Rosenthal explained. This sets the stage for another round of awkward family interactions, likely featuring Grande as a potential love interest amidst the family comedy.
John Hamburg, who has co-written the previous films in the series, returns as both director and writer for this new installment. He collaborates with De Niro and Rosenthal, who will produce the film under their respective production banners, Tribeca Productions and Delirious Media, with Stiller also producing through Red Hour Films. The film is currently scheduled for a theatrical release on November 25, 2026.
Grande’s entry into the Meet the Parents universe brings a new dynamic to the franchise. Transitioning from her musical prowess to solid acting credentials, Grande isn’t merely a pop icon; her recent recognition at the Academy Awards, along with nominations from the Golden Globes, BAFTA, and SAG, solidifies her status as a serious actress.
The addition of Grande is expected to inject fresh energy into the franchise, particularly as her comedic abilities could complement Stiller’s well-established neurotic persona, thus enriching the narrative of family conflict that has pervaded the series. As anticipation builds for Meet the Parents 4, audiences can expect a modern exploration of the timeless theme of familial relationships and the often humorous pitfalls of navigating them—this time, with Ariana Grande joining the family reunion table.
