Penelope Cruz has joined Ben Stiller and Owen Wilson in Zoolander 2, giving fans hope that the much buzzed about sequel is finally coming together.

Zoolander 2 Moving Forward

Stiller wrote, directed and starred in Zoolander, a comedy about supermodel Derek Zoolander, in 2001. The film was not an immediate success. A sequel to the film, which also featured Will Ferrell as the evil designer Mugato and Wilson as rival model Hansel, has been rumored to be in the works for years, and Cruz’s casting could indicate that a sequel has moved beyond the rumors stage.

Both Ferrell and Wilson are rumored to be returning for the sequel, which will reportedly take place ten years after the events of the first film.

“It’s ten years later and most of it is set in Europe. I don’t want to give away too much, but it’s basically Derek and Hansel ten years later. Though the last movie ended on a happy note, a lot of things have happened in the meantime. Their lives have changed and they’re not really relevant anymore. It’s a new world for them. Will Ferrell is written into the script and he’s expressed interest in doing it. I think Mugatu is an integral part of the Zoolander story, so yes, he features in a big way,” Stiller told reporters in September.

Ben Stiller or Justin Theroux Directing

In fact, according to IMDB, Zoolander 2 is moving forward with a script by Tropic Thunder writer, Justin Theroux. While IMDB lists Theroux as director, Deadline reports that Stiller will be reclaiming his place in the director’s chair for the sequel. Reports also suggest that studios are eager to begin production on the Zoolander sequel following the success of Dumb and Dumber To at the box office.

Article by Olivia Truffaut-Wong

Olivia Truffaut-Wong was born and raised in Berkeley, California, where she developed her love of all things entertainment. After moving to New York City to earn her degree in Film Studies, she stayed on the East Coast to follow her passion and become an entertainment writer. She lives on a diet of television, movies and food.