Rick Moranis Gets Comic-Con Standing Ovation As He Comes Out Of Retirement For ‘Spaceballs 2’

Rick Moranis has officially emerged from his long hiatus. The actor made a surprise appearance at San Diego Comic-Con to confirm he is reprising his role as Lord Dark Helmet for the upcoming sequel Spaceballs: The New One.

Fans in Hall H gave the 73-year-old actor a standing ovation as he walked through the crowd wearing his character’s iconic oversized helmet. Moranis has been out of the spotlight for nearly three decades, but his return was met with significant enthusiasm from the crowd and his industry peers.

The project is moving forward with the support of comedians including Josh Gad. Original director Mel Brooks is also attached to the sequel as a producer and will return as the character Yogurt. Moranis noted that the decision to rejoin the film was a clear one for him, joking that he had not really retired but was simply negotiating for a long time.

Spaceballs: The New One is currently scheduled to hit theaters on April 23, 2027. The panel at Comic-Con also teased an expansive vision for the property, introducing the concept of a Spaceballs Cinematic Universe to audiences. While Mel Brooks did not appear in person, he shared a video message thanking fans for their support of the production.