Mel Brooks, 100, wil zijn scènes als eerste gefilmd hebben voor Spaceballs-vervolg

Daphne Zuniga deelt details van de set terwijl de langverwachte vervolgfilm zich voorbereidt op een release in 2027.

Comedy legend Mel Brooks turned 100 this year, yet he remains deeply involved in the long-gestating sequel to his 1987 sci-fi parody classic. The icon made it clear he wanted his scenes captured early, prompting the production team to accommodate his request before principal photography started.

Zuniga Reveals Brooks' Proactive Approach on Set

Actress Daphne Zuniga, who returns as Princess Vespa, shared the story during a panel at 90s Con. She explained that Brooks had already completed his work on the project titled Spaceballs: The New One. "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," Zuniga said.

She added that the decision came directly from Brooks himself. "It was his idea: ‘You better film me now because I’m 100.’ So we did," Zuniga recalled, according to reports from the event.

Brooks Reprises Iconic Yogurt Role in April 2027 Release

Brooks, who wrote and directed the original film, returns as the wise alien character Yogurt. The sequel is directed by Josh Greenbaum and features returning and new talent, including Keke Palmer, Josh Gad and Lewis Pullman. Zuniga confirmed the theatrical release date as April 23, 2027.

Gad Praises Brooks' Enduring Energy and Wit

Co-writer and producer Josh Gad has spoken warmly about collaborating with Brooks. During a 2024 appearance on Kelly Ripa’s SiriusXM podcast, Gad highlighted the veteran comedian’s sharp form. "It’s been such a thrill to get to see him literally still on form in every single way," Gad said. "He is so effortlessly funny and so unbelievably brilliant."

Brooks Reflects on Staying Active at 100

In a September 2025 interview with the Times of London, Brooks offered insight into his mindset. He noted that some days he barely registers the passage of time. "I talk on the phone and I write — every day. Always writing, always correcting, always questioning," he said.