Rick Moranis Returns to Acting After Decades Away

The beloved actor will reprise his iconic 'Spaceballs' role in a long-awaited sequel.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 12:13am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A striking black silhouette of the iconic Dark Helmet helmet against a bold red background, conceptually representing the return of actor Rick Moranis to the 'Spaceballs' franchise.After decades away from the spotlight, the iconic Dark Helmet actor makes a triumphant comeback in the long-awaited 'Spaceballs' sequel.Las Vegas Today

After nearly three decades out of the spotlight, beloved actor Rick Moranis is making a return to acting. Moranis will reprise his role as Dark Helmet in the upcoming sequel 'Spaceballs: The New One,' which was teased at this year's CinemaCon event in Las Vegas.

Why it matters

Moranis' decision to step away from Hollywood in the 1990s to focus on raising his children after the tragic death of his wife resonated with many fans. His return to acting, even in a beloved comedic role, is seen as a heartwarming comeback for the famously private actor.

The details

Moranis, 72, made a rare public appearance at the CinemaCon presentation, where he helped introduce the 'Spaceballs' sequel. The teaser shown gave audiences a glimpse of Moranis back in character as Dark Helmet, with most of his appearance hidden behind the character's signature mask. Moranis will be joined by original 'Spaceballs' stars Bill Pullman and Daphne Zuniga, as well as newcomers Lewis Pullman and Josh Gad, who co-wrote and produced the film.

  • Moranis stepped away from screen acting in the late 1990s.
  • The 'Spaceballs' sequel, titled 'Spaceballs: The New One,' is set to hit theaters on April 23, 2027.

The players

Rick Moranis

A beloved actor who is returning to acting for the first time in decades, reprising his iconic role as Dark Helmet in the 'Spaceballs' sequel.

Ann Belsky

Moranis' late wife, a costume designer, whose tragic death in 1991 led Moranis to step away from acting to focus on raising their children.

Bill Pullman

An original star of the 'Spaceballs' film, who will be returning for the sequel.

Daphne Zuniga

An original star of the 'Spaceballs' film, who will be returning for the sequel.

Lewis Pullman

A newcomer to the 'Spaceballs' franchise, who will be appearing in the sequel.

Josh Gad

A newcomer to the 'Spaceballs' franchise, who co-wrote and produced the sequel.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I was working with really interesting people, wonderful people. I went from that to being at home with a couple of little kids, which is a very different lifestyle. But it was important to me. I have absolutely no regrets whatsoever. My life is wonderful.”

— Rick Moranis

The takeaway

Moranis' return to acting, even in a beloved comedic role, is seen as a heartwarming comeback for the famously private actor who stepped away from Hollywood to focus on raising his family after a personal tragedy. Fans are eagerly anticipating his reprisal of the iconic Dark Helmet character in the 'Spaceballs' sequel.