Universal Pictures Plans Fourth Meet the Parents Film

A fourth installment of the beloved 'Meet the Parents' franchise is reportedly in development at Universal Pictures, with original stars Ben Stiller, Robert De Niro, Teri Polo, and Blythe Danner in early discussions to reprise their roles. John Hamburg, who co-wrote all previous films, is set to write the screenplay, while De Niro and producing partner Jane Rosenthal will produce through Tribeca Productions. Jay Roach, who directed the first two films, is also involved in production. Although the plot remains undisclosed, it is expected to follow the characters later in life, given the significant gap since the last film in 2010. The franchise, which began with the 2000 hit 'Meet the Parents,' has proven commercially successful, with the first two films grossing over $850 million combined worldwide. Fans are expressing mixed reactions online, with some eager for the sequel while others question the originality of Hollywood's current trend of reviving established franchises.