Rick Moranis, known for his role in ‘Spaceballs,’ has revealed exciting news for fans of the cult classic film. During Comic-Con International, Moranis thrilled audiences in Hall H by announcing his return as the iconic Dark Helmet in ‘Spaceballs: The New One.’ The sequel is set to premiere next April.
At 73, Moranis made a triumphant return to the spotlight, first hiding in the crowd under Dark Helmet’s oversized headgear before emerging to enthusiastic applause. Sharing his thoughts, Moranis expressed how this project came at the perfect time, calling it his best decision and likening the experience to being part of a family.
Several key figures joined Moranis on stage, including director Josh Greenbaum, writer and actor Josh Gad, writers Dan Hernandez and Benji Samit, along with new cast members Keke Palmer and Lewis Pullman. While Palmer and Pullman’s roles remain undisclosed, Palmer was notably entertained by the script during her first read.
Lewis Pullman, who grew up watching his father Bill Pullman in ‘Spaceballs,’ admitted initial hesitations. However, he was won over by the humor-filled script, finding it among the funniest he has ever read. Pullman emphasized that it would feel odd not to participate.
Though Mel Brooks and Bill Pullman were absent at the event, they sent greetings to fans through prerecorded videos. The audience was treated to behind-the-scenes footage of Brooks recording lines and reuniting with Bill Pullman and Daphne Zuniga, accompanied by a sneak peek at the teaser trailer.
Josh Gad confirmed he will portray a mawg in the new film, a nod to John Candy’s character, Barf, without replacing him. Gad shared that the film would pay tribute to Candy and other original cast members such as Joan Rivers, Dom DeLuise, and Dick Van Patten.
The panel added humor by parodying popular cinematic universe timelines, showcasing imagined sequels across ‘The Almighty Schwartz Saga’ in more than 11 phases on Hall H’s wrap-around screens.