AceShowbiz - Julie Andrews will not reprise her iconic role as Queen Clarisse Renaldi in The Princess Diaries 3, Us Weekly reports. The decision comes as the new movie centers primarily on Princess Mia’s journey, and it is now too late for Andrews to join the project.

Per Us Weekly, the creative team behind the film invited Julie Andrews repeatedly over the past year to participate, but she declined, citing her retirement from on-camera work and confidence that the story would thrive without her character. Deadline and E! News confirm that the story’s focus has shifted away from Queen Clarisse, emphasizing Mia’s evolution as the new queen. E! News adds that director Adele Lim envisions the sequel as a narrative about queens mentoring future leaders, further explaining why Andrews’ role was minimized.

Julie Andrews is best known for her legendary performances as Mary Poppins in Mary Poppins and Maria in The Sound of Music. She appeared as Queen Clarisse in the original The Princess Diaries (2001) and its 2004 sequel, both starring Anne Hathaway as Mia Thermopolis. With 44 acting credits to her name, Andrews has earned numerous award nominations throughout her career and remains a celebrated figure in film and theater. Despite stepping back from on-screen roles, she continues to voice Lady Whistledown in Netflix’s Bridgerton.

This development marks a notable shift for the franchise, as Anne Hathaway is confirmed to return as Queen Mia Thermopolis. The absence of Julie Andrews underscores the new movie’s intent to spotlight Mia’s leadership and growth apart from her grandmother’s influence. Fans can expect a fresh take that honors the original while charting a new path for the beloved series, though no release date has been announced yet.

This article is based on reporting originally published by Us Weekly.