Whoopi Goldberg has been teasing us with “Sister Act 3” hints for what seems like forever. Yes, the movie is actually happening. Goldberg has reportedly read the script, and they’re moving forward. In the past, she’s suggested Keke Palmer, Lizzo and Nicki Minaj as possible co-stars. Those last two might be too controversial now, but Keke would fit right in with Deloris Van Cartier/Sister Mary Clarence.
Before we get to the third film in the franchise, “The View’s” producers wanted to celebrate the 30th anniversary of “Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit” with a reunion. Sheryl Lee Ralph, who co-starred in that film with longtime friend Goldberg, appeared on the talk show Wednesday to discuss the Season 3 premiere of “Abbott Elementary” and also received an invite to the big reunion.
“We’re going to try to get as many cast members on to share memories from the movie,” Goldberg said. “Would you do us the honor of coming back? And as soon as we know when it is, we’ll do that.”
Ralph played Florence Watson, the disapproving mother of Lauryn Hill’s Rita. The visibly emotional actress seemed ready to come back for the special episode, but that wasn’t the only “Sister Act” surprise Whoopi had in store for the Emmy winner.
“You know, we’re in the process of putting together ‘3,’” Goldberg said. “Will you come be part of it, whatever it is?”
The “Dreamgirls” star didn’t immediately answer, but she was clearly moved by the invitation. So would she return as Florence, or a completely new character? Based on Whoopi’s previous teases about the movie, we’re guessing she’d be a new character.
Back in October, the EGOT winner traveled to Vatican City and met Pope Francis, hinting on Instagram that she was doing prep work for the upcoming sequel.
“Picture ‘Sister Act’ and all the nuns standing here, waiting for the Pope to come out. Maybe that’s going to happen in the new movie,” Goldberg said. “You don’t know. You never know, but we are in Rome, and I am in Vatican City. What could I be doing? Why could I be here? We’ll find out.”
The idea of Sister Mary Clarence and her friends performing for the Pope is so hilariously perfect for “Sister Act,” we hope they can make it happen. After waiting all this time, we really want this new movie to be good. We know it will be funny and hit all the familiar jokes, but it just needs to be an entertaining, fun return to the franchise. Also, we’d love to see Issa Rae, Natasha Rothwell and Megan Thee Stallion as new nuns.