Christmas is coming early for Grinch fans. More than 25 years after Jim Carrey first donned the iconic green fur, Universal and Imagine Entertainment are developing a sequel to “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Carrey is in talks to reprise his role as the Grinch, and Oscar winner Ron Howard (“A Beautiful Mind”) is expected to return to direct.
Released in 2000, “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” was the highest-grossing film domestically that year, earning $260 million in the U.S. and $345 million worldwide. It also won the Academy Award for best makeup for Rick Baker and Gail Ryan, who transformed Carrey through an arduous, hours-long prosthetics, hair, and makeup process.
Here’s what we know so far about the new sequel, including the creative team behind it and where to find upcoming casting opportunities.
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Official plot details have not been announced yet. The original film was based on Dr. Seuss’ beloved 1957 book about the Grinch, a cranky recluse determined to ruin Christmas for the residents of Whoville by stealing their gifts and decorations. It became a holiday staple and remains one of the most recognizable live-action adaptations of a Dr. Seuss story.
Until more story details are revealed, it’s unclear where the sequel will take the Grinch next or which familiar faces from Whoville might return.
Howard is expected to return as director and producer alongside his longtime Imagine Entertainment partner Brian Grazer. Learn what Howard expects from his actors in this article.
The screenplay is being written by “Curb Your Enthusiasm” veterans Alec Berg (“Barry,” “Silicon Valley”), Jeff Schaffer (“Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness,” “Dave”), and David Mandel (“Veep”). The trio previously collaborated on the 2003 Dr. Seuss adaptation “The Cat in the Hat,” starring Mike Myers.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, CEO Susan Brandt will oversee the project for Dr. Seuss Enterprises, with Britt Hennemuth and Christina Hoffrogge overseeing for Universal.
Jim Carrey is currently in talks to reprise his role as the Grinch. In a 2024 interview with ComicBook.com, he said modern motion-capture technology could make a return to the character more appealing than enduring the grueling makeup process required for the original film.
No other cast members have been announced yet.
While we wait for official casting updates, bookmark our main casting call page. And don’t forget our ultimate guide to getting cast in a movie or TV show for helpful tips and inspiration.
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