We've been waiting for news on Paddington 3, and Deadline has now confirmed that the upcoming threequel, Paddington in Peru, will begin production this July.
It's a little hard to believe that it's been six years since Paddington 2 was released, and while plot details are currently being kept a secret, the trade - and title - suggests we'll follow the title bear in his country of birth, "deepest, darkest Peru." In terms of the cast, it sounds like we should expect a combination of returning and new actors.
Unfortunately, there's currently no word on whether Ben Whishaw will return to voice Paddington.
Paddington in Peru's story comes from Paul King, Simon Farnaby and Mark Burton, with Burton, Jon Foster and James Lamont responsible for the threequel's screenplay.
As previously reported, the movie will also see music videos and commercials director Dougal Wilson make his feature-directing debut. "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," he said in a statement today. "It’s a massive responsibility, but all my efforts will be focussed on making a third film that honours the love so many people have for this very special bear."
Paddington and Paddington 2 director Paul King says, "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."
Franchise producer David Heyman adds, "After an exacting search, we’re delighted that the brilliant Dougal Wilson will be directing the third Paddington film. A much-garlanded legend within the commercials world, we have long admired Dougal’s virtuoso work, and his gift for directing with heart, humour, surprise and vivid imaginative flair."
"He’s a wonderfully inventive kindred spirit for Paddington’s latest adventure with the Browns, and we’re thrilled to be working with him."
Paddington in Peru doesn't currently have a release date, though we'd assume it will arrive in 2024 or 2025 at the latest.