The beloved stars of the 1998 Disney classic The Parent Trap, Elaine Hendrix and Lisa Ann Walter, have opened up about persistent fan speculation regarding a potential sequel to the sister-swapping film. In a candid discussion, the actors addressed the rumours while playfully acknowledging their limited insider knowledge.
Sequel Speculation: "Above Our Pay Grade"
When questioned by Us Weekly about the likelihood of a sequel, both actors responded with characteristic humour and realism. Lisa Ann Walter, 62, who played the eccentric housekeeper Chessy, firmly stated, "That's a Disney question." Elaine Hendrix, 55, who portrayed the memorable antagonist Meredith Blake, added the now-quoted line, "Above our pay grade." This exchange highlights that while fan enthusiasm is palpable, any official movement on a sequel remains firmly within the studio's domain.
A Friendship Forged on Set
The pair, who became best friends during the filming of the hit remake, have maintained a close bond ever since. Their enduring friendship was recently celebrated in the magazine's Galentine's Day issue for February. This off-screen camaraderie continues to fuel fan interest in seeing their on-screen characters reunite in a new narrative.
Fan Theories and Character Futures
Despite having no official information, Hendrix and Walter entertained questions about what a sequel might entail for their characters. Hendrix revealed, "I think by a large consensus, people want Chessy and Meredith to get together." Walter humorously noted that this particular desire stems from "a very specific group of people on Reddit." Hendrix, however, did not dismiss the idea, joking, "I wouldn't say no."
The Nancy Meyers Condition
Walter has previously expressed a clear condition for her participation in any sequel. Last July, she stated she would love to do a Parent Trap follow-up, but only "one hundred percent if Nancy Meyers wrote it." Meyers, renowned for her cozy aesthetic and charming romantic comedies, made her directorial debut with The Parent Trap, which she also co-wrote. This sentiment is shared by the film's breakout star, Lindsay Lohan, who said in 2024 she would "never say no to Nancy."
Remembering the Original Cast and Story
The 1998 film, a remake of the 1961 original, launched Lindsay Lohan to stardom for her dual role as twins Hallie and Annie James. The plot follows the separated sisters as they meet at summer camp and conspire to reunite their parents, played by Dennis Quaid and Natasha Richardson. Walter has expressed a desire for Lohan and Quaid to reprise their roles in any potential sequel, while also acknowledging the profound absence of Richardson, who tragically passed away in 2009.
"Dennis [Quaid] has said that he doesn't think it's doable without Natasha, and I understand that," Walter reflected. She added a thoughtful perspective on the narrative challenge, stating, "The movie — it's a kids' story, but it's a love story. So to have a love story that involves that grief, that sadness — if it was written beautifully, maybe it's doable."
Recent Reunion on the Dance Floor
The enduring friendship between the co-stars was recently showcased on a different stage. Walter joined Hendrix for a dance during Hendrix's stint on season 34 of Dancing With the Stars. Hendrix ultimately finished the competition in fifth place with her professional partner, Alan Bersten, demonstrating their supportive bond extends beyond their film origins.
While the prospect of an official Parent Trap sequel remains uncertain and firmly in Disney's hands, the enduring affection between the stars and the passionate fan base ensures the conversation will continue. Hendrix and Walter's playful banter and heartfelt reflections keep the spirit of the beloved film alive for a new generation.
