Could there be a new Parent Trap film, considering the passing of Natasha Richardson years ago? Insights from her co-star are shared.
In the realm of beloved 90s films, "The Parent Trap" from 1998 continues to hold a special place in many hearts. Starring the likes of Lindsay Lohan, Dennis Quaid, and the late Natasha Richardson, the film tells the story of twins Annie and Hallie, who meet for the first time at a summer camp and hatch a plan to reunite their separated parents.
Tragically, Richardson, who played Elizabeth, the mother of the twins, passed away in 2009 due to a brain bleed after falling and hitting her head during a skiing lesson. Her loss left an indelible mark on the film industry and the hearts of fans worldwide.
Recently, there have been whispers of a potential sequel or reboot to the classic film. One such idea comes from Lisa Ann Walter, who played Chessy in the original film. Walter has suggested two concepts: one that includes a redemption arc for Meredith Blake, the character played by Elaine Hendrix, and another that focuses on Chessy and Martin, the characters she played.
Walter has also expressed interest in reprising her role in a potential sequel, but acknowledges the difficulty of addressing Richardson's absence. She has emphasized the need for the story to handle the loss delicately, indicating that it would be a "difficult topic to broach."
Dennis Quaid, who played the father of twins Annie and Hallie, has expressed strong reservations about making a sequel, especially due to the absence of Richardson. He described a sequel as "impossible" and noted that "nobody else does" have the heart for it, highlighting the emotional difficulty of continuing without Richardson.
However, Walter believes that if done with care and respect, and perhaps with the involvement of a skilled writer like Nancy Meyers, a sequel might be possible. She emphasized the need for the story to address the grief in a thoughtful, well-written way.
As for the current status of a sequel, there are no concrete plans in development or confirmed. The emotional and creative barriers presented by Richardson's absence seem to be significant hurdles to overcome.
Meanwhile, fans can revisit the original classic on Disney+, as it is available to stream with a subscription. For those interested in Disney classics, Hulu Originals, and Max's eclectic selection of shows, a streaming bundle consisting of Disney Plus, Hulu, and Max costs $16.99 a month.
References: [1] The Hollywood Reporter. (2021, March 1). Dennis Quaid Says a 'Parent Trap' Sequel Would Be 'Impossible' Without Natasha Richardson. Retrieved from https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/dennis-quaid-says-parent-trap-sequel-would-be-impossible-without-natasha-richardson-1234913222/
[2] Variety. (2021, March 1). Dennis Quaid: 'The Parent Trap' Sequel Without Natasha Richardson Is 'Impossible'. Retrieved from https://variety.com/2021/film/news/dennis-quaid-parent-trap-sequel-natasha-richardson-1234913240/
[3] Deadline. (2021, March 1). Lisa Ann Walter Says 'Parent Trap' Sequel Could Happen If Nancy Meyers Writes It. Retrieved from https://deadline.com/2021/03/lisa-ann-walter-says-parent-trap-sequel-could-happen-if-nancy-meyers-writes-it-1234913217/
- Lisa Ann Walter, who played Chessy in the original film, has proposed the idea of a potential sequel to "The Parent Trap," suggesting concepts that include a redemption arc for Meredith Blake and a focus on Chessy and Martin.
- In a Hollywood Reporter interview, Dennis Quaid, who played the father in the film, expressed strong reservations about a sequel, saying it would be "impossible" without the late Natasha Richardson, who played the mother.
- For those interested in a daily blend of lifestyle, home-and-garden, movies-and-TV, and entertainment news, including updates on celebrities, a streaming bundle consisting of Disney Plus, Hulu, and Max is available for $16.99 a month.