If you’ve ever shouted “Ludicrous speed, go!” at your TV or still giggle at the name “Dark Helmet,” you’re in for a treat: Spaceballs 2 is officially in the works. After decades of rumors, teases, and dashed hopes, the cult-favorite sci-fi spoof from 1987 is finally getting a follow-up. And guess what? Some of the OGs are coming back.
Bill Pullman is once again suiting up as Lone Starr, and yes, Rick Moranis, who’s been largely off the Hollywood grid, is stepping back into that ridiculously oversized helmet. Joining them is none other than Keke Palmer, bringing her signature energy to a mystery role. It’s the kind of casting news that makes you want to dig out your old VHS copy (or okay, stream it like a normal person).
Classic Cast Returns for Spaceballs 2
For longtime fans, hearing that Bill Pullman is back feels like revisiting an old friend, one who once saved the galaxy with a Winnebago and a half-baked plan. But the real emotional punch comes with Rick Moranis’ return as the hilariously evil Dark Helmet. The guy’s been mostly absent from Hollywood since the ‘90s, so this is a comeback that feels both unexpected and perfect.
Sadly, Spaceballs legends John Candy (Barf) and Joan Rivers (voice of Dot Matrix) are no longer with us, but the filmmakers haven’t forgotten them. Word is, the sequel will include heartfelt nods to both characters, possibly even more than just a passing reference. There’s also talk that Daphne Zuniga, who played Princess Vespa, might make a surprise appearance, which would tie the generations together nicely.
Spaceballs 2 Welcomes Keke Palmer and a New Generation of Stars
Of course, it’s not all throwbacks. Spaceballs 2 is bringing in some fresh comedic blood, too. Keke Palmer’s addition is big; she’s got range, timing, and presence, which could shake things up in the best way. And Josh Gad isn’t just starring; he’s also co-writing and co-producing alongside the one and only Mel Brooks.
Gad’s involvement feels like a bridge between Brooks’ legendary old-school comedy and today’s self-aware, meme-ready humor. He’s a fan, and from everything we’ve heard, he’s treating the legacy of Spaceballs with the right mix of respect and ridiculousness.
What Fans Can Expect from Spaceballs 2
So what’s Spaceballs 2 actually about? Well, the plot is still under wraps, but insiders say it’ll be swinging at today’s sci-fi heavyweights, think Star Wars sequels, the Marvel machine, and maybe even a few jabs at Star Trek. Expect a chaotic mix of galaxy-hopping nonsense, fourth-wall-breaking jokes, and all the wink-wink satire the original was known for.
Josh Greenbaum, who directed Strays (2023), is set to direct, and the script comes courtesy of Gad, Benji Samit, and Dan Hernandez. With Mel Brooks back on board as a producer, there’s reason to believe the soul of the original is in good hands.
According to Gad, filming kicks off in late 2025. The team is reportedly taking their time to get it right, because when you’re rebooting something this beloved, you don’t want to mess it up.
Why the World Still Needs Spaceballs 2
Let’s be honest: Spaceballs has always been more than just a spoof. It poked fun at a genre that was just starting to take itself a little too seriously. Fast forward to today, and blockbuster sci-fi has become this massive, merch-heavy machine (cough Baby Yoda everything). A smart, funny sequel could cut through all that with some much-needed levity.
Plus, Mel Brooks’ brand of humor, absurd, fearless, and wildly silly, feels like an antidote to the over-serious tone of a lot of modern franchises. This sequel doesn’t just make sense. It might be exactly what we need.
Final Thoughts on Spaceballs 2
Nearly four decades later, Spaceballs 2 is gearing up to go plaid once again. With Bill Pullman and Rick Moranis returning, Keke Palmer bringing fresh fire, and Josh Gad helping steer the ship, this sequel looks ready to balance nostalgia and modern wit. Add Mel Brooks’ comedic stamp of approval, and there’s real hope this won’t just be a reboot, but a revival.
Now, if they can just squeeze in a “Spaceballs: The Flamethrower” reference, we’ll know they’re doing it right.
