Whoopi Goldberg Gives ‘Sister Act 3’ Update After Devastating Loss

In both the film and its 1993 sequel, Goldberg stars as Deloris Wilson, a lounge singer who is forced into witness protection after witnessing her gangster boyfriend commit a murder. Unfortunately, the safest place for Deloris to hide is the last place she wants to be — a convent. Though she attended private school, Deloris never quite fit in, always seen as a rebellious spirit.

Credit: Disney

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At first, Deloris does everything she can to irritate the stern Mother Superior (played by Maggie Smith) and stir up trouble with the other nuns. But over time, she comes to appreciate these women, who accept her for who she is and teach her the value of community and faith.

It’s been nearly 32 years since Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit premiered, but the love for the nuns, their joyful spirit, and the film’s heartwarming humor still resonate with fans.

In fact, the passion for Sister Act and its iconic cast is so strong that Whoopi Goldberg has confirmed that a third film has been in development for some time, much to the excitement of fans everywhere.

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Goldberg’s enthusiasm for the project has not waned, as she has expressed her intentions to bring back beloved co-stars such as Kathy Najimy and Wendy Makkena. She has also spoken about her vision for the film on various platforms, including The View, where she has actively engaged with fans and former cast members.

Sadly, on September 27, 2024, one of the stars of the beloved franchise passed away. Dame Maggie Smith — also known for her roles in Harry Potter and Downton Abbey — died at the age of 89. In both Sister Act and Sister Act 2, Smith played Mother Superior.

Credit: Touchstone/Disney

In a recent interview, Whoopi Goldberg discussed the impact of Maggie Smith’s passing on Sister Act 3. Smith’s death necessitated some significant changes in the film’s production plans. Goldberg noted that her team needs to make “some readjustments” due to the loss of such a key actor, highlighting the emotional weight this loss carries for all involved.

Per Entertainment Weekly:

After Fallon asked whether or not Pope Francis accepted Goldberg’s widely publicized offer to cameo in the production (which she extended last year during a trip to the Vatican in October 2023), the 68-year-old somberly reflected about the potential for Smith’s involvement prior to the Harry Potter and Downton Abbey actress’ death.

“We’re having to make some readjustments, because we just lost Maggie Smith, as you know,” Goldberg revealed, suggesting that Smith would’ve return to reprise her Sister Act role as Reverend Mother. “We will get it done. We’ll get it done. It’s a shift.”

Credit: Touchstone/Disney

Goldberg recalled working closely with Smith in both Sister Act films and praised her influence on the project. Reflecting on Smith’s legacy, she expressed the heartfelt sentiment shared by many fans and colleagues. The absence of Smith’s character will undoubtedly be felt throughout the film, prompting the creative team to rethink pivotal scenes and story dynamics to navigate this loss.

Tyler Perry has signed on as a producer for the upcoming film and, in 2022, mentioned that the script was progressing well. To mark the 30th anniversary of Sister Act 2, Goldberg also brought several cast members from the film onto The View to celebrate the milestone.

Reports indicate that Goldberg will reprise her role as Deloris (a.k.a. Sister Mary Clarence), and Wendy Makkena will return as Sister Mary Robert. Sister Act 3 is set to be directed by Tim Federle, with a screenplay by Karin Gist, Regina Hicks, and Madhuri Shekar.

Are you excited to see Whoopi Goldberg return for Sister Act 3? Which other cast members are you hoping to see back in the fold? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!