Keira Knightley may be moving away from franchise roles after her appearances in three Pirates of the Caribbean films. However, she could potentially return for the sequel to the beloved sports film that helped popularize women’s soccer in the UK. With Bend It Like Beckham 2 currently in development, the British actress shared her thoughts on what she envisions for the future of the franchise.
Deadline confirmed that a sequel is underway with Director Gurinder Chadha, who helmed the original, expressed her excitement about revisiting the story:
“I’m eager to reconnect with the characters and continue the story, building on the legacy we helped establish for women’s football.”
Chadha revealed that she has been considering a follow-up for the past two years. It wasn’t until she attended the Women’s European Championship final in Switzerland that inspiration struck. Witnessing the sport’s growing global competitiveness and excitement reinforced her enthusiasm. While it’s not yet confirmed whether the original cast will return, Chadha noted that they’re aware of the sequel’s development and are interested in participating once they see the script. She also expressed confidence that most of the cast will likely reprise their roles.
The original film concluded with Jules and Jess receiving full athletic scholarships at Santa Clara University. In a recent interview with British Vogue, Knightley discussed some ideas she’s been bouncing around with her Woman in Cabin 10 director, Simon Stone:
“He suggested that Jules might now be a coach. I was like, ‘But what about Jess?!’ He joked that she could be coaching the other team, and they’d have this ongoing rivalry.” She added humorously, “Simon’s now asking for payment for that idea.”
Knightley revisited longstanding speculation about Jules and Jess’s relationship, who were initially written as a couple. She reflected, “We thought at the time, ‘Obviously, they’re a couple,’ but who knows what’s happened since? Maybe they split up and got back together. Twenty-five years is a long time—so much could have changed.”
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