Netflix has officially confirmed that a third installment of the popular comedy franchise Grown Ups is currently in development. The announcement, made on May 13, 2026, marks a significant milestone for the streaming giant as it continues to lean into its long-standing partnership with Adam Sandler.
While official plot details remain under wraps, multiple industry insiders have confirmed that the core ensemble cast is expected to return. Fans can look forward to seeing Adam Sandler, Chris Rock, David Spade, Kevin James, and Rob Schneider reunite for another round of chaotic family vacation antics.
The project will be helmed by director Kyle Newacheck, who has previously found success with Netflix on titles such as Murder Mystery and the highly anticipated Happy Gilmore 2. His involvement suggests a continuation of the high-energy, slapstick style that defined the previous two entries in the series.
The original Grown Ups films were massive commercial successes, collectively grossing over $270 million at the global box office. They established themselves as comfort-watch staples, celebrated for their focus on lifelong friendships and the relatable, albeit exaggerated, struggles of middle-aged life.
According to a statement provided to Variety by Netflix film chief Scott Stuber, the chemistry between the lead actors remains a primary draw for the platform. Stuber noted, "Adam and the Grown Ups cast have a special chemistry that audiences around the world still love. We’re excited to bring this next chapter to our members."
The narrative for the third film is expected to shift focus toward the next generation of the characters' lives. Sources suggest the story will explore the group navigating the complexities of grown children, aging parents, and the evolving challenges of retirement.
A source familiar with the production told Deadline that the project is being viewed as a potential swan song for the franchise. The source stated, "Adam sees this as a chance to give fans one last big summer getaway with the guys. He’s been pushing for this for years."
Despite the excitement from the fanbase, the announcement has not been without its detractors. Some critics have expressed skepticism, arguing that the franchise's brand of humor feels dated when compared to modern comedic standards. These commentators question whether a 2010-era comedy style can successfully resonate with the sensibilities of a 2026 audience.
For Netflix, the decision to move forward with the sequel aligns with their broader strategy of investing in proven, crowd-pleasing content. By leveraging the massive built-in audience of the Happy Madison brand, the streamer aims to maintain high engagement levels among its subscriber base.
Production is slated to begin later this year, with industry analysts projecting a potential release window in late 2027 or early 2028. While no official premiere date has been set, the anticipation surrounding the reunion is already generating significant social media buzz.
The impact of this news extends beyond just the film industry, as it highlights the enduring power of nostalgia in modern entertainment. For many viewers, the return of this specific group of comedians represents a return to a simpler, more familiar era of cinema.
As the production moves forward, fans are eagerly awaiting further updates regarding the supporting cast and specific filming locations. The project serves as a testament to the strength of the creative relationship between Adam Sandler and Netflix, which has become a cornerstone of the platform's comedy library.
Information for this report was gathered from official statements released by Netflix and industry reporting from outlets including Variety and Deadline. The confirmation of the project reflects ongoing trends in streaming content acquisition and the continued viability of established comedy franchises in the digital age.