Mel Brooks, the director of the original 1987 film "Spaceballs," made a specific request for the production of "Spaceballs: The New One" to film his scenes as the character Yogurt first. According to actress Daphne Zuniga, this decision was driven by Brooks' age and a desire to ensure his presence in the sequel.
"We filmed Spaceballs: The New One that Mel Brooks worked with the writers on. He’s a big influence in it. He filmed his part already before we shot. It was his idea: ‘You better film me now because I’m 100,’" Zuniga stated at this past weekend’s 90s Con, as reported by People.
Zuniga is reprising her role as Princess Vespa, now Queen, and Bill Pullman returns as Lone Starr. Their son, Prince Starburst, will be played by Bill Pullman's real-life son, Lewis Pullman. Rick Moranis is also set to return as Dark Helmet, with George Wyner reprising his role as Colonel Sandurz.
Other cast members joining the sequel include Josh Gad as Mawg, Keke Palmer as Destiny, and Anthony Carrigan. Gad also co-wrote the script along with Benji Samit and Dan Hernandez, who previously worked on "Lego Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy" and "TMNT: Mutant Mayhem." Josh Greenbaum, known for "Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar," is directing.
The promotional campaign for "Spaceballs: The New One" has included parodies of major film releases, such as an 11-film slate for a "Spaceballs Cinematic Universe" and a "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" table read photo parody. A digitally altered image of Yogurt with muscular abs was also revealed.
Amazon MGM Studios is slated to release "Spaceballs: The New One" in 2027.