Ben Stiller has reunited the original star-studded cast of Meet The Parents for the highly anticipated sequel, Focker-in-Law, and has added international pop sensation Ariana Grande to the lineup. The announcement came during Stiller’s recent appearance on The View, where he shared insights about the upcoming film, releasing over 15 years after Little Fockers, the third installment in the franchise.
Stiller expressed excitement about Grande’s participation without revealing too many details, highlighting her talent as a comedic actress. This marks a notable inclusion, signaling a fresh dynamic for the beloved series as it returns to theaters.
Greg Focker’s New Journey Reflects a Generational Shift
In the new movie, Stiller’s character, Greg Focker, experiences a role reversal as he steps into the shoes of Jack Byrnes, originally played by Robert De Niro. Stiller explained that he has reached the same age De Niro was when the first film premiered, allowing the story to explore Greg’s perspective of having children and meeting their significant others.
I can’t really say too much about it yet,
Stiller admitted.
But Ariana’s in it. She’s amazing, what a brilliant comedic actress, just an amazing person.
I’m the age that Robert De Niro was when we did the first movie,
Stiller added.
So Greg Focker is kind of going through that same experience of having his kids [and] meet someone they like.
Ariana Grande’s Unique Role and Additional Cast Details
Ariana Grande joins the Focker family cast alongside established stars such as Robert De Niro, Teri Polo, Blythe Danner, and Owen Wilson, who will reprise their iconic roles. New additions also include Skyler Gisondo, known for his role as Superman, and Beanie Feldstein from Booksmart. Grande’s involvement follows her critical success with an Oscar nomination for Wicked and the forthcoming Wicked: For Good.
Ben Stiller previously praised Grande’s ability to blend seamlessly into the cast, emphasizing her comedic skill and professionalism. He remarked on her unique character in the film and the enjoyable experience of working with her.
What’s surprising, and maybe not really surprising, is how amazingly she blended in. She’s such a pro, she’s so funny, she’s so talented, obviously as a singer, but also she was so funny and amazing in Wicked. What she’s doing in this movie is very unique, it’s a very unique character, and we’re having a great time and just like to work with her.
– Ben Stiller
Classic Characters and Future Expectations
While much of the original cast is confirmed, questions remain about whether Barbra Streisand and Dustin Hoffman will return as Bernie and Roz Focker, Greg’s parents. Fans await official word on their involvement as the film’s release nears.
The View’s Sara Haines prompted Stiller about revisiting the iconic milk scene, referencing the memorable moment where he tells De Niro,
You can milk anything with nipples.
De Niro’s presence in the new film suggests such signature humor will likely continue.
Anticipated Premiere and Cultural Impact
Focker-in-Law is scheduled to debut in theaters on November 25, 2026, promising a blend of nostalgia and fresh storytelling. By bringing together the original cast with new talent like Ariana Grande, the film aims to resonate with both longtime fans and a new generation.
This continuation holds significance as it revisits familiar family dynamics while exploring themes relevant to the characters’ evolving lives, such as parenting and intergenerational relationships, likely sparking wide interest upon release.
