Is Rick Moranis officially back in Spaceballs 2?

Yes, Rick Moranis is confirmed to reprise his role as Dark Helmet after a long hiatus.

When was Moranis’s last live-action film?

His most recent major live-action film was Honey, We Shrunk Ourselves (1997).

Who else is returning from the original Spaceballs cast?

Bill Pullman, Daphne Zuniga, George Wyner, and Mel Brooks are returning in key roles.

When will Spaceballs 2 be released?

The film is planned for a 2027 theatrical release.

Who are the new cast members joining the sequel?

New additions include Josh Gad, Keke Palmer, Lewis Pullman, and Anthony Carrigan.

Rick Moranis Is Coming Out of Retirement to Reprise Dark Helmet in Spaceballs 2

Big news for fans of intergalactic parody: Rick Moranis is officially coming out of (nearly three decades of) retirement to reprise his iconic role as Dark Helmet in Spaceballs 2.

This return is especially significant given Moranis’s long hiatus from live-action films. His last on-screen appearance was back in Honey, We Shrunk Ourselves (1997). Since then, he’s largely stepped away from acting to focus on his family, preferring behind-the-scenes work and occasional voice roles.

What We Know About Spaceballs 2

Cast & Returnees

In addition to Moranis, Spaceballs 2 is reassembling several original cast members:
- Bill Pullman returns as Lone Starr
- Daphne Zuniga reprises Princess Vespa
- George Wyner returns as Colonel Sandurz
- Mel Brooks is back—not just behind the camera but in front of it, reprising his role as Yogurt.
New cast members joining include Josh Gad, Keke Palmer, Lewis Pullman, and Anthony Carrigan.
The film is co-written by Gad, and co-produced by Brooks and others.

Production & Format

The Spaceballs 2 production is already underway, and the first table read photo has been released—confirming Moranis is in the mix.
The film is slated for a 2027 theatrical release.
The sequel is being positioned (in true Spaceballs spirit) as “A Non-Prequel Non-Reboot Sequel Part Two but with Reboot Elements Franchise Expansion Film.”

Why Moranis’s Return Matters

Iconic Role, Iconic Actor

Dark Helmet is arguably one of Spaceballs’ most recognizable figures—an absurd parody of dark lords in sci-fi lore. Having Moranis return restores a major part of the film’s charm and continuity.

World-Building & Nostalgia

Longtime fans have long hoped for Moranis’s return. Mel Brooks himself had previously stated he would not make a proper sequel unless Moranis agreed to reprise the role. Now, that promise is fulfilled.

A Comeback to Watch

Moranis stepping back into live-action is a big moment in itself. After decades of near silence, this is his most significant return to screen acting. For fans of comedy, cult cinema, or even parody-savvy audiences, this signals a potentially unforgettable Spaceballs revival.

What We’re Curious About

Will the humor match the original?
Parody trends have shifted. How Spaceballs 2 navigates modern pop culture, memes, and franchise fatigue will decide if it lands or feels outdated.
How will new cast members fit?
Roles haven’t been fully revealed, but blending new talent with nostalgia-heavy cast will require balance.
What’s the story?
Details are still under wraps, but the title and promotional approach hint at playful self-awareness and callbacks to Star Wars parody culture.
Will Moranis appear in big physical scenes or minimal presence?
Given his long hiatus, the role’s scale may be tailored to ease him back.

Bottom Line

Rick Moranis returning as Dark Helmet isn’t just a cameo—it’s the emotional and comedic anchor that makes Spaceballs 2 a must-watch. With original cast, new co-stars, and production in motion, we are on the cusp of a comedic revival that blends nostalgia with new energy. The Schwartz is awakening once more.

Stay connected with the galaxy’s latest updates!

Follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, or Pinterest for exclusive content, mod guides, Star Wars gaming news, and more. Your support helps keep the Holonet alive—one click at a time