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More than two decades after 'Bend It Like Beckham' first inspired audiences around the world, director Gurinder Chadha has announced that a sequel is officially in development, with a planned release in 2027.
The original 2002 film, starring Keira Knightley and Parminder Nagra, told the empowering story of a British-Punjabi teenager who defies cultural expectations to pursue her dream of playing football. Celebrated for its impact on women’s sports and cultural representation, the movie went on to become a global sensation, grossing nearly £60 million worldwide.
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Image Courtesy: Prime Video
Chadha shared the exciting news during an event in Basel, Switzerland, ahead of the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 final between England and Spain. She explained that she had received consistent fan demand for a follow-up over the years, but held off until she discovered a storyline she felt was worthy of the original film's legacy.
Gurinder Chadha Was Searching for The Right Idea
After more than 20 years, Chadha says she’s finally discovered the perfect sequel story—timed to celebrate the film’s 25th anniversary and the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. While it’s still undecided whether the project will be a feature film or a television series, development is actively underway.
Chadha also confirmed she is working on the script in collaboration with Emma Hayes, the Olympic gold medalist and current manager of the US women’s national team. Hayes said the original movie had a profound impact on her, recalling how emotional she felt watching it in cinemas as a young woman who related deeply to the characters.
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Image Courtesy: Entertainment Weekly
The director expressed hopes of reuniting the original stars of 'Bend It Like Beckham', Knightley and Nagra, along with other familiar faces from the cast. She also hinted that members of England’s national women’s team, the Lionesses, are likely eager to make cameo appearances in the upcoming project.
Government officials have also praised the news. Lisa Nandy MP, Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, called the sequel announcement a defining moment for British cinema, highlighting how 'Bend It Like Beckham' celebrated diversity and resilience, leaving a lasting imprint on British culture.
With women’s football thriving worldwide, a 'Bend It Like Beckham' sequel is set to capture a new wave of fans—blending sport, nostalgia, and fresh representation in a timely comeback.
