Portokalos family is heading back to theaters this fall. “My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3” will premiere in theaters September 8, Focus Features announced Friday.
The third film sees Vardalos direct and once again star opposite John Corbett, with Tom Hanks, Rita Wilson and Gary Goetzman returning as executive producers via their Playtone banner. Other cast members include Louis Mandylor, Elena Kampouris, Maria Vacratsis, Andrea Martin, Elias Kacavas, Gia Carides, Joey Fatone and Melina Kotselou.
Focus Features is handling “My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3″ in the U.S., while Universal Pictures International will handle the threequel overseas. The story follows the Portokalos family as they attend a family reunion in Greece.
It’s been more than 20 years after “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” grossed $368.7 million at the worldwide box office, including 1.
4 million domestically. It remains the top-grossing romantic-comedy of all time at the North American box office, as well as one of the most successful indie titles of all time. The 2002 movie, which was based on her one-woman play, earned star and writer Nia Vardalos earned Oscar nomination for best original screenplay and a Golden Globe nomination for best actress in a comedy or musical.
“The sweet friendship which bloomed from the producers’ first taking a chance on me then grew into a beautiful relationship as they entrusted me to direct this installment of our franchise,” Vardalos said in a statement.
“We filmed our family reunion entirely in Greece which was thrilling for us all. Plus, we ate for free.” Added Wilson, “My Big Fat Greek Wedding“ has brought audiences joy for twenty-one years. I’m so happy that more joy is on the way.
”
IFC Films distributed the first movie, with Universal landing rights to the sequel.