Disappointing news for Paddington fans as actor Ben Whishaw, who voices the titular character, gives an update about the future of the franchise. Michael Bond’s original children’s story was adapted into two live-action animated films, the sequel receiving a rare 100 percent score on Rotten Tomatoes.
The highly anticipated third installment was reported to be in development, as determined by the success of the two previous films. The initial plan was to begin shooting by the end of 2022. Unfortunately, the actor who voiced Paddington Bear reveals that production has not even started.
Paddington Star Ben Whishaw Reveals Filming Hasn’t Begun
In his interview with Collider, Ben Whishaw talked about his new project, Bad Behaviour, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. The Paddington star also shared that he has no idea when the animated movie will commence production:
“I haven’t read this script and I don’t even know when we’re due to shoot it. I don’t know. I thought it would be happening by now, but I don’t know. It’s gone silent in the way that sometimes these things do. Maybe that just means they’re still working on it, or maybe it means it’s not happening, or you just don’t know.”
This is definitely shocking news for fans of the comedy animated film. Last June, Paul King stepped down from the director’s seat and was replaced by Dougal Wilson. The third installment was also revealed by the title Paddington in Peru, a hint that fans’ beloved bear would finally return to his home. These details were clear tell-tale signs that the franchise received the green light signal.
The announcement made in 2021 by StudioCanal was clearly stuck in the pipe, and for two times in a row, the filming plan never came to fruition. It is unclear whether the delay is caused by technical reasons or issues happening behind the scenes.
What We Know So Far About Paddington 3
There is no confirmed cast announced as of yet, but Ben Whishaw is expected to reprise his role alongside Hugh Bonneville, Sally Hawkins, Madeleine Harris, and Samuel Joslin. Dougal Wilson, the newly appointed director, told The Hollywood Reporter:
“As a huge fan of the first two films, I am very excited (if not a little intimidated) to be continuing the story of Paddington.”
King, on the other hand, believes that his beloved little bear is safe in Wilson’s capable hands:
“After ten years of working on the Paddington movies, I feel absurdly protective of the little bear, and I’m delighted that Dougal will be there to hold his paw as he embarks on his third big-screen adventure. Dougal’s work is never less than astounding: funny, beautiful, heartfelt, imaginative, and totally original. Aunt Lucy once asked us to ‘Please Look After This Bear.’ I know Dougal will do so admirably.”
So far, these are all the updates known about Paddington 3. There is also no expected release date yet. Fans would have to keep their eyes peeled for more news about the franchise.
