Paul Feig to Direct Mamma Mia 3 as Amanda Seyfried Pushes for Franchise Return

Momentum is finally gathering behind the much-discussed third instalment of the Mamma Mia franchise, with Amanda Seyfried’s persistence seemingly paying off. The next chapter, following the 2018 sequel, has now found its director in Paul Feig, whose recent work with Seyfried on The Housemaid turned out to be a surprise box office sensation, especially after Sydney Sweeney’s previous films had struggled to make a mark. Lionsgate, no doubt, will be hoping lightning strikes twice.

The news broke during a conversation between Seyfried and Mona Fastvold, director of The Testament of Ann Lee. Seyfried let slip that Feig would be taking the reins for the third outing, after Fastvold herself expressed a desire to direct the project. Seyfried’s revelation has certainly set tongues wagging among fans and industry watchers alike.

Looking back, the original Mamma Mia! film managed a respectable 6.5 on IMDb, with Rotten Tomatoes scores of 55% from critics and 66% from audiences. Its sequel, Here We Go Again, nudged those numbers up a touch, earning 6.6 on IMDb and a more generous 80% from critics, though the audience score held steady. Clearly, there’s still plenty of affection for the sun-soaked musical antics.

Seyfried’s Relentless Drive for a Third Outing

It’s no secret that Seyfried has been the driving force behind the push for a third film. Having starred alongside the likes of Meryl Streep, Pierce Brosnan, Colin Firth, and Cher in the previous two, she’s been vocal about her desire to see the story continue. Her determination has been matched only by the fans’ enthusiasm.

Despite her general scepticism towards sequels—she’s previously argued that most are motivated by commercial interests rather than creative ones—Seyfried has made it clear that this particular franchise is a notable exception. As she put it,

I will say, there’s a little bit of fatigue with sequels. I want original content. I think it’s really scary and brave to do it. It’s not scary and not very brave to do sequels. It’s just for money and it’s frustrating. Then again, I’d do Mamma Mia! 3 in a heartbeat.

With Feig now officially attached, speculation is rife as to whether the original cast will reunite for another round of ABBA-fuelled escapades. For now, though, Seyfried remains the only confirmed returnee.

What’s Next for Sophie? Storylines and Fan Theories

Details about the plot remain tightly under wraps, and Seyfried herself has admitted she hasn’t yet seen a script. That hasn’t stopped her from floating ideas, though. She’s previously mused about exploring the challenges of motherhood and raising children, a theme that would echo Donna’s journey in the first film.

Fans have wasted no time in suggesting possible casting choices for Sophie’s daughter, with Sabrina Carpenter emerging as a popular pick. Seyfried, for her part, seems more than happy to play along, saying,

You know what? Old age makeup for me. That’s what it will be. … I’m an actor. I’ll do it. If Sabrina Carpenter wants to play my daughter, I’ll make it happen. It’s fine. I’m a big fan.

With the success of The Housemaid still fresh, there’s a sense that the stars may finally be aligning for the long-awaited threequel. Seyfried’s commitment to the project, coupled with Feig’s proven track record, has certainly raised expectations.

Where to Watch and What’s Next

For those keen to revisit the earlier films, the original is available to rent on Apple TV in the US, while the sequel can be streamed on Hulu. As anticipation builds for the next chapter, fans are left to wonder which familiar faces might return—and what new twists await on the sun-drenched Greek island.