By India McCarty
Could your dog be a movie star? The crew behind AIR BUD RETURNS are on the lookout for their next star, opening up the search to people around the world.
“If there’s one thing we’ve learned over the years…When you get the chance — take the shot,” a message on the official AIR BUD website reads. “This is your golden opportunity to have your dog audition to be part of AIR BUD RETURNS, the next chapter in the beloved franchise.”
Dog-owners are invited to submit a photo and video of their golden retriever, along with a short bio that includes their dog’s favorite game to play.
AIR BUD RETURNS, the 15th movie in the popular sports franchise, was announced earlier this year. It’s set for a summer 2026 release.
An official synopsis for AIR BUD RETURNS reads, “12-year-old Jacob has always dreamt of being a star basketball player. After the passing of his father, that dream felt even more impossible. But everything changes when he and his mom move into his dad’s childhood home in Fernfield.”
“There, Jacob discovers an original VHS of the AIR BUD movie in his father’s belongings and has a chance meeting of a neglected golden retriever he names Buddy,” the synopsis continues. “Together, they embark on a journey of healing, unite a team of misfits, and chase a championship. Through it all they learn to play from the heart, believe in each other, and always take the shot!”
The last AIR BUD movie premiered in 2003. AIR BUD: SPIKES BACK saw the titular golden retriever taking part in a volleyball competition. The movies have also spawned popular spin-off series, including AIR BUDDIES and SANTA PAWS.
Related: This Athletic Pup Heads Back to the Court for a Brand New Movie
“Anyone who follows the box office knows that we are experiencing an important moment at the intersection of ’90s and early 2000s nostalgia and millennial parents looking for family-friendly movies to share with their kids,” Cineverse chief motion pictures officer Yolanda Macias said in a statement.
She continued, “With the return of an iconic franchise that has remained popular since Robert created the OG AIR BUD more than 28 years ago, we are offering a real treat that will resonate with fans across generations. This is the ideal first project for us as we expand our theatrical strategy to the kids and family category.”
AIR BUD and its following movies have long been a beloved classic for kids around the world. Fans can’t wait to see AIR BUD RETURNS — and to see which golden retriever will be chosen to play the iconic character!
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