Bend It Like Beckham Sequel in the Works, Director Confirms
London – More than two decades after the release of the 2002 cult‑favourite film Bend It Like Beckham, its director, Gurinder Chadha, has officially confirmed that a sequel is under development.
Cinema Express
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NME
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The New Indian Express
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Chadha revealed that the film will revisit the original characters and explore how the story and women’s football have evolved since the original’s release. She also stated the follow‑up is aiming for a release in 2027, aligning with the 25‑year anniversary of the first film and the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027.
The New Indian Express
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Cinema Express
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Original cast & format still in flux
While the original cast—including Parminder Nagra and Keira Knightley—are aware of the sequel’s development, Chadha clarified that their participation depends on seeing a strong script.
Mid-day
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She further noted that it has not yet been decided whether the project will take the form of a feature film or a television series.
The Daily Star
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Why now?
Chadha explained that for many years she held off any sequel because she did not feel there was a narrative worthy of revisiting the original’s magic. But given the increased prominence and competitiveness of women’s football today, she says the timing now feels right.
hypebae.com
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“Women’s football is more competitive, more exciting and more global than ever. It is an honour for me to be a small part of it,” she said.
NME
What this means
The original Bend It Like Beckham told the story of Jess (played by Parminder Nagra), a young British‑Indian woman who defies her parents’ expectations to pursue football. It became a surprise global hit and remains influential in how it addressed culture, gender and sport.
Cinema Express
With the sequel, Chadha aims to build on that legacy—rekindling the characters, exploring new terrain and spotlighting the growth in women’s sport.
While full details are still under wraps—plot, confirmed cast, and production schedule—fans and industry watchers now have a concrete target: 2027, an event year for both the franchise and the sport it celebrates.