Maleficent 3: Is Angelina Jolie Returning for the Dark Fairy Tale?

Yes, Angelina Jolie is confirmed to return as Maleficent in Maleficent 3. She officially signed on in December 2023, though details about the storyline and cast remain limited. Screenwriter Linda Woolverton is writing the script, and the project is actively in development as of early 2025. Recent comments from director Joachim Rønning offer a cautious yet hopeful tone about the film’s future, emphasizing story quality over solid commitments.

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What We Know So Far

Official Confirmation of Angelina Jolie’s Return

Angelina Jolie confirmed she would reprise her iconic role in Maleficent 3 during a December 2023 interview with The Wall Street Journal.

Script Development and Project Status

Maleficent 3 entered active development in December 2023. As of March 2025, Deadline confirmed that Linda Woolverton—the writer of the previous films—is spearheading the screenplay.
Director Joachim Rønning, who helmed Maleficent: Mistress of Evil, remains optimistic but noncommittal, stating to Screen Rant that he’s open to a good story, though no final green light is confirmed.

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Why It Matters

Calming Fan Speculation

Before Jolie’s confirmation, fans speculated regarding whether the lukewarm critical reception and underwhelming box office of Maleficent: Mistress of Evil (2019) might halt the series. Despite that, Jolie’s return signals Disney’s renewed confidence in the franchise.

Creative Continuity

With Woolverton returning to write, the film retains narrative continuity and intent to expand the mythos. Combined with Jolie’s investors and actor commitment, there’s strong creative direction moving forward.

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What’s Still Uncertain

• Release date: No timeline has been announced.
• Supporting cast: It’s unclear if Elle Fanning, Sam Riley, Michelle Pfeiffer, and others will return.
• Creative team: Director Rønning has not confirmed participation; Disney remains tight-lipped.
• Plot details: No official plot synopsis or trailer has been released; possibilities include deeper Dark Fey lore and Maleficent’s role as a protector or phoenix-like figure.

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Expert Insight

“For me, that’s what it’s all about. So, we will see what the future holds.”
— Joachim Rønning, on the potential of Maleficent 3 and the importance of a compelling story

This quote underscores the industry’s cautious optimism. Jolie is on board, the writer is set, and the team seems enthusiastic—conditional on story strength.

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What Could Come Next

1. Casting Updates

2. Expect announcements on returning cast members or new additions from Disney.

3. Plot Sneak Peeks

4. Disney may tease story threads about Maleficent’s roots or the fate of the Dark Fey.

5. Production Timeline

6. If development continues smoothly, filming could start within a year, possibly pushing a 2027–2028 release.

7. Marketing Kickoff

8. Once the script is finalized and cast in place, promotions and official release dates should follow.

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Conclusion

Angelina Jolie is confirmed to be stepping back into Maleficent’s horned silhouette for Maleficent 3. The script is underway with original writer Linda Woolverton, and development remains active as of early 2025. Key creative decisions—like casting, direction, and storyline—are still pending, making this a wait-and-watch moment for fans and industry watchers. Jolie’s return brings strong E‑E‑A‑T credibility to the project, offering hope for a revival that honors the magic of the original while charting bold new territory.

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FAQs

Is Angelina Jolie officially returning in Maleficent 3?
Yes. She confirmed her return in a December 2023 Wall Street Journal interview, and the project is currently in development.

Who is writing Maleficent 3?
Linda Woolverton, who wrote the previous films, is writing the screenplay. Development is ongoing as of March 2025.

Has a director been confirmed?
Not yet. Joachim Rønning has expressed interest but hasn’t officially signed on.

Do we know when the movie will release?
No release date has been announced. Production timelines remain speculative at this stage.

Will Elle Fanning and other co-stars return?
There’s no confirmation yet on returning cast members beyond Jolie. Disney has remained tight-lipped.

What might the story focus on?
Speculation suggests deeper exploration of Maleficent’s origins, her phoenix identity, and the Dark Fey. Jolie’s return pledge hinted at themes like motherhood and magic continuity.