Ben Stiller recently shared his admiration for Ariana Grande’s talents as the two team up in the upcoming film “Focker-in-Law,” the next chapter in the beloved comedy franchise. Speaking on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, Stiller discussed what it was like to work with Grande, who plays his character’s future daughter-in-law, and why her presence brings something special to the project.
Ben Stiller Reflects on Working With Ariana Grande
Stiller, known for his role in the original Fockers series, was candid about his awe regarding Grande’s abilities during his appearance on the show. Reflecting on the decision to cast Grande, he recounted his initial reaction upon learning she would join the movie, highlighting both her comedic and musical skills.
“It’s crazy how talented [she is],”
Ben Stiller, Actor, said on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. He went on to admit that, despite initially not remembering their prior encounter, the two had actually met during her cameo in “Zoolander 2” nearly a decade earlier.
“She’s so sweet. I didn’t know her before,”
Ben Stiller, Actor, recalled, before correcting himself and explaining their unusual earlier meeting.
“Actually, I had met her before because she did a cameo in Zoolander 2 10 years ago. She was in an orgy scene we had. But I haven’t seen her since the orgy. She’s so great with comedy. She’s amazing in Wicked and she’s such a good singer, obviously, too,”
Ben Stiller, Actor, shared.
Ariana Grande Impresses With On-Set Talent
Grande’s reputation for musical prowess was evident on set, according to Stiller, who witnessed her vocal routines firsthand. He described how, even when simply humming to herself between takes, Grande’s talent would shine through, revealing the depth of her skills as both a singer and performer.
“Incredible, operatic… kind of soliloquy. And that’s just her humming. It doesn’t sound like I just did it. That sounds like I was possessed or something,”
Ben Stiller, Actor, remarked.
Comedy Experience Adds a Unique Dimension
While Grande is currently making headlines with her roles in the “Wicked” movies, her comedic background, rooted in Nickelodeon’s “Victorious” and “Sam & Cat,” remains evident. Stiller emphasized how naturally she fits into the comedy landscape, which aligns well with the ensemble cast for the Fockers sequel.
“She’s so good with comedy. She’s just like a total natural,”
Ben Stiller, Actor, said. He later added,
“I feel like she could do anything,”
Ben Stiller, Actor, shared.
A Heartfelt Goodbye From Ariana Grande
Grande finished filming her scenes for “Focker-in-Law” and took to social media on October 31 to post pictures from set, including moments with her co-stars and her character’s nameplate, Olivia Jones. She expressed deep affection for the cast and crew, capturing the emotional bond formed during production.
“these past few months have been so, so unimaginably special. i love my Fockers, and i love my Byrnes… so, so very much. i will miss this bunch terribly. see you next november!”
Ariana Grande, Singer/Actor, wrote.
What to Expect When “Focker-in-Law” Hits Theaters
Scheduled for release on November 25, 2026, the film will see Ben Stiller, Robert De Niro, Teri Polo, and Blythe Danner reprise their roles, with Ariana Grande joining them as Olivia Jones. With Grande’s comedic roots and impressive vocal talent, her addition to the cast is expected to bring a fresh dynamic to the story, which centers on family relationships and mishaps.
The impact of Grande’s involvement has already created buzz among fans of both the music and film industries. As anticipation builds for the latest installment in the Fockers legacy, the collaboration between Ben Stiller and Ariana Grande offers a promising blend of seasoned comedy and new energy—a highlight for moviegoers and followers of both stars. With the support of a celebrated ensemble, “Focker-in-Law” aims to deliver another successful chapter that honors the beloved franchise while introducing new faces, including Grande, to a wide audience.
