Ariana Grande Joins 'Meet the Parents' Universe, Bringing New Energy to Franchise Revival
January 29, 2026
The film’s re-entry into the Meet the Parents universe is buoyed by Ariana Grande joining as Henry’s partner, bringing a fresh sensibility and elevated energy to the tone after a long hiatus.
Grande’s casting marks her first big movie role since her rise in the Wicked films, and Stiller emphasizes how her energy fits the franchise’s dynamic.
The film centers on a now-adult Greg facing family-entry challenges similar to those his father-in-law faced when Greg married his daughter, signaling a continuity in the family-comedy premise.
Stiller highlights his collaboration with Boone on the Instacart ad, praising Boone’s talent, improvisational ability, and upside as a performer.
Boone is featured as co-star in the Instacart Super Bowl spot, with emphasis on his latent acting potential and willingness to perform.
Grande will star as Henry’s partner, developing a playful, evolving dynamic with Robert De Niro’s Jack Byrnes and adding layers to Greg Focker’s outsider position.
The film explores the connection between Grande’s character and De Niro’s, contributing to the humor and tension in Greg Focker’s family interactions.
De Niro is portrayed as versatile, funny, and capable of both intensity and warmth, enhancing comedy through his interactions with Grande.
Stiller praises Grande’s professionalism and comedy instincts, noting her work on SNL and suggesting her presence shifts the franchise’s mood in a positive direction.
Stiller praises Benson Boone for his Instacart Super Bowl commercial and notes Boone’s natural presence and potential as an actor.
promotional material includes teasers and a Super Bowl final ad featuring Stiller and Boone in a retro, humorous setup about banana ripeness.
Stiller discusses returning to the Meet the Parents universe with Greg Focker confronting a new family dynamic as his son introduces a partner.
Summary based on 6 sources
Get a daily email with more Entertainment stories
Sources

Entertainment Weekly • Jan 28, 2026
Ben Stiller teases Ariana Grande and Robert De Niro's 'fun relationship' in 'Focker In-Law'
Deltaplex News • Jan 29, 2026
Ariana Grande’s brought a ‘very, very new sensibility’ to ‘Fockers’ franchise, says Ben Stiller - Deltaplex News
KS95 94.5 • Jan 29, 2026
Ariana Grande's brought a 'very, very new sensibility' to 'Fockers' franchise, says Ben Stiller