The future of Priscilla 2 after Terence Stamp’s death…….

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We recently announced a sequel to *Priscilla, Queen of the Desert*, but following the passing of Terence Stamp in August 2025, its future became uncertain. Stamp played a key role alongside Guy Pearce and Hugo Weaving as one of the film’s three main characters.

Director Stephen Elliot shared that they spent a considerable amount of time developing the visual concept for Terence Stamp’s character, Bernadette, even considering how he would look at 88 years old. This process involved a lot of experimentation and took time. When discussions about using AI to create a digital clone of Stamp arose, he was upset and insisted on having the opportunity to play the character himself, stating he wanted to be able to retire the role personally, ‘just in case I don’t make the start line.’

He also shared that with the approval of Terence Stamp, his family, Guy, Hugo, and the film’s backers, they filmed all of Stamp’s scenes in advance. Stamp was 87, nearly 88, and despite the demanding, multi-camera setup and multiple, exhausting shoots, he gave an incredible performance. He didn’t enjoy wearing the wig again, but he clearly had a wonderful time. Saying ‘that’s a wrap’ on Terence Stamp was a deeply emotional moment, and something he’ll never forget. The scenes with Stamp were filmed across three different studios, beginning at Pinewood.

It’s fascinating to me how filmmakers are now able to include performances from actors who have passed away – we saw it with Oliver Reed in *Gladiator* and Peter Cushing and Carrie Fisher in the newer *Star Wars* films. But what’s unique here is that all of Sir Anthony Hopkins’ scenes were filmed *before* his passing, not created afterward. Director Elliott spoke about how Hopkins was always playfully aware of time, constantly joking, ‘You’re running out of time, kids!’ And because of that, he really threw himself into the role, giving absolutely everything he had.

Okay, so things are complicated with ‘Priscilla 2’. Filming’s on hold right now. I was talking to Elliot, and he basically said he just needs a breather to figure things out. The plan is still to have him as Bernadette, but we’re working out the logistics. Honestly, the big question is whether anyone even *wants* to see this movie. But I kinda think they will, especially considering how much effort Elliot has put in – he really dedicated the last few months of his life to this project. It’s a tricky situation, a really tough one, but I’m hoping we can make it work.

Quite what the future of Priscilla 2 after Terence Stamp’s death remains to be seen.

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2025-09-29 02:23