HOLLYWOOD - A new Austin Powers sequel is underway. Yeah, baby!
Mike Myers and director Jay Roach have decided to begin the third and possibly final Austin Powers film after New Line approved a strong draft submitted by Myers and co-writer Michael McCullers.
The charismatic comedian Myers will resurrect his Powers character, as well as his nemesis Dr. Evil and the pudgy Fat Bastard. In the upcoming film, he will also play the title character, whose identity the writers are keeping secret until the film is released.
"It's the most interesting, exotic villain people have seen in a long time, and every time Mike lapsed into the character in readings, we would literally lose it and take time to regain our composure," Roach told Reuters on Thursday.
Talks are also underway for Verne Troyer to return as Mini-Me, and Seth Green may reprise his role as Dr. Evil's son, Scott. Roach is also hoping for Robert Wagner to return as No. 2 and for Rob Lowe to play the younger Wagner in a time-travel moment.
And which hottie will Powers shag in the new film?
Seems like the shagadelic spy will do his thing with a different gal pal in the sequel; however, Roach said that Heather Graham might return for a cameo.
"We've tried very hard to make this the ultimate Austin," Roach said. "Mike has delivered something here that is extraordinary and nicely stitches together all three films and creates a satisfying third chapter of the trilogy."
According to Reuters, Myers will receive an advance of about $25 million against 21 percent of the film's gross. Details of the deal were worked out a month ago.
New Line is looking forward for a July 26, 2002, release date. Austin Powers 2: The Spy Who Shagged Me grossed $310 million worldwide, becoming the highest grossing film in the studio's history.