Ariana Grande is set to make a splash in comedy with her next big-screen role in the upcoming installment of Universal Pictures’ Meet the Parents franchise. This marks her first major film role since her acclaimed Oscar-nominated turn as Glinda in Wicked.
Joining comedy legends Robert De Niro and Ben Stiller, Grande will play the bold and unconventional fiancée of Greg and Pam’s son—characters reprised by Stiller and Teri Polo. While plot details remain under wraps, sources hint that her character will bring a fresh, chaotic energy to the family’s famously awkward dynamics, promising plenty of laughs.
The Meet the Parents trilogy, launched in 2000, is beloved worldwide for its sharp humor and relatable family tensions, grossing over $1.13 billion globally. Original cast members Blythe Danner and Teri Polo are expected to return, adding continuity for longtime fans.
The film is directed and co-written by John Hamburg, with a powerhouse production team including Jane Rosenthal and De Niro (Tribeca Productions), Jay Roach (Delirious Media), and Ben Stiller alongside John Lesher (Red Hour Films). Universal has slated the release for November 25, 2026.
Though Ariana Grande is best known as a global pop superstar, she began her career in acting with Nickelodeon's Victorious. Her critically praised performance in Wicked earned her Golden Globe, SAG, and BAFTA nominations, showcasing her versatility beyond music. Before stepping into this comedy role, she will appear in Wicked: For Good, releasing November 2025.
Grande’s entry into the Meet the Parents world signals an exciting new chapter, blending her charismatic presence with the franchise’s signature humor and heart.
