Mel Brooks Insisted on Shooting His Scenes for Spaceballs: The New One Before the Rest of the Cast
Mel Brooks, the legendary director who helmed the original 1987 comedy Spaceballs, has taken an active role in the upcoming sequel Spaceballs: The New One. At 100 years old, Brooks worked with the film’s writers and insisted on filming his scenes—featuring his character Yogurt—before the rest of the cast was scheduled to shoot.
The decision to prioritize Brooks’s scenes came from the comedy icon himself. Actress Daphne Zuniga revealed at 90s Con that Brooks took a pragmatic approach to the production timeline, telling filmmakers: “You better film me now because I’m 100.” This arrangement ensured his character would be included in the final film regardless of any health concerns that might arise during the remainder of production.
Zuniga, who originated the role of Princess Vespa in the original film, is returning for the sequel as the now-adult Queen Vespa. Bill Pullman is also reprising his role. The decision to film Brooks’s scenes early reflects both practical filmmaking considerations and the enduring creative legacy of the comedy legend. His continued involvement in the franchise demonstrates his ongoing influence and commitment to the beloved science-fiction comedy that defined his later career.