Adam Sandler reunites with co-stars as 'Grown Ups 3' begins filming

Adam Sandler is back with his old friends from the Grown Ups franchise as production begins on the third film. The first set photo, shared by Sandler on Thursday, shows him alongside Kevin James, Chris Rock, David Spade, and Rob Schneider. Netflix announced in May that the third installment is in development, marking the return of the ensemble after a 12‑year break.

The original Grown Ups movie opened in 2010 to a $100‑million U.S. box‑office haul and a $300‑million worldwide gross. It was the highest‑grossing film in the U.S. for its release year and spawned a sequel in 2013 that earned $140 million worldwide. The franchise built a loyal fan base around its mix of slapstick humor and nostalgic friendship themes. After a decade of no new projects, the decision to revive the series comes as Netflix seeks to expand its slate of original content with proven, bank‑able franchises. The streaming platform has already shown interest in other comedy franchises, and Grown Ups 3 offers a ready‑made audience that can drive subscriber engagement.

Filming is set to begin in early summer, with principal photography scheduled in New York and New Jersey. The cast will reprise their roles, and the original director, Dennis Dugan, will return to the helm. Production is expected to last about six months, with a post‑production phase that could see the film ready for release in late 2025 or early 2026. Netflix plans to release the movie on its platform rather than in theaters, following the trend of streaming-exclusive releases for family‑friendly comedies.

Fans are already reacting on social media, expressing excitement and skepticism about whether the humor will translate to a new generation. The film’s success will hinge on balancing the original’s nostalgic charm with fresh material that appeals to contemporary audiences. If Grown Ups 3 performs well, it could signal Netflix’s commitment to reviving other classic franchises and solidify the streaming giant’s position in the comedy market.