(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Bend It Like Beckham Sequel Confirmed: Director Gurinder Chadha Developing Follow-Up to Iconic Film
More than 20 years after its groundbreaking debut, the beloved sports drama Bend It Like Beckham is officially getting a sequel. Director Gurinder Chadha confirmed the exciting news in a recent interview with the BBC, revealing that development is currently underway for a new installment of the 2002 hit.
The sequel is tentatively scheduled for release in 2027, aligning with the 25th anniversary of the original film and the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil — making it a fitting tribute to the ongoing rise of women’s football worldwide.
Iconic Story, Timely Return
The original Bend It Like Beckham followed Jesminder “Jess” Bhamra, a British-Asian teenager torn between her love for football and her traditional family’s expectations. Along the way, she befriends Jules Paxton, a fellow footballer who encourages her to pursue her passion despite cultural pressures.
Starring Parminder Nagra and a then-emerging Keira Knightley, the film became a global success, grossing nearly $80 million on a modest $4.6 million budget. It became a cultural milestone — particularly for young women and British-Asian girls — inspiring many to follow their dreams in sport and beyond.
Director Gurinder Chadha: “Now Is the Right Time”
Speaking from Basel, where England’s Lionesses were preparing to face Spain in the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 final, Chadha explained why now felt like the perfect moment to revisit the story.
“We’ve been part of changing the game for women,” Chadha said. “This felt like the right time to go back and explore the characters again.”
The director noted that she’s been asked “almost twice a week” over the years about a possible sequel. While the format — whether a feature film or a TV series — is still under discussion, Chadha remains excited and hopeful about reuniting the original cast.
Could England’s Lionesses Make Cameos?
In a fun twist, Chadha hinted at potential cameos from current England players, saying:
“I imagine they’ll be queuing up for a chance to be in the sequel!”
Given the immense popularity of women’s football in the UK and around the world, incorporating real-life football stars could add authenticity and a modern twist to the story.
Cultural Legacy and What Comes Next
Chadha reflected on the impact of the original film, which challenged gender stereotypes and gave voice to young girls navigating identity, culture, and ambition.
“I intended to uplift girls like me,” she said. “Girls who were always told how to behave, how to dress, and what not to do. I wanted to say — you can have it all.”
With women’s football gaining more visibility and respect than ever before, the director believes the conversation isn’t over:
“There’s still a lot to say, and still a lot to challenge.”
What Fans Can Expect
While plot details remain under wraps, fans can likely expect:
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A look at Jess and Jules years later
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New characters from a younger generation
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Themes of identity, ambition, and equality
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The same heart, humor, and cultural relevance that made the original a classic
As the world gears up for the 2027 Women’s World Cup, Bend It Like Beckham 2 could once again inspire a new generation of dreamers.
