Priscilla Sequel Targets 2028 Release, With Pre-Filmed Scenes Featuring Late Terence Stamp
Guy Pearce has revealed that a sequel to the 1994 cult classic Priscilla, Queen of the Desert is likely to begin production in 2027 and arrive in 2028. Director Stephen Elliott pre-shot all of Bernadette's scenes with Terence Stamp before the actor's death last year, as Stamp refused to allow a digital clone to take the role. The sequel is moving forward despite Stamp's passing at age 87.
The sequel’s production plan hinges on footage shot before Stamp’s death, with director Stephen Elliott capturing all of Bernadette’s scenes while the actor was still alive. Elliott noted Stamp’s frequent jokes about his age and his firm refusal to allow a digital replica, preferring to perform the role himself “just in case I don’t make the start line.” Stamp passed away in August 2025 at 87, roughly a year before this announcement. Guy Pearce, who starred in the original, confirmed the timeline during a promotional appearance for his film *The Dog Stars*, telling a reporter the sequel would likely shoot in 2027 and debut in 2028. The project thus moves forward with pre-filmed material integrated into a new narrative.
This sequel’s unusual production method—pre-shooting a deceased actor’s scenes—could reshape how Hollywood handles aging stars and legacy franchises. Fans of the original cult classic may feel both comfort and unease: comfort in seeing Stamp’s final performance, unease over the ethical and artistic implications of releasing a film built around an actor who cannot promote it. The decision to avoid AI cloning may set a precedent, potentially influencing labor discussions and audience expectations about digital resurrection in entertainment.