Charlize Theron and Channing Tatum to Star in Universal’s New Dance Comedy ‘Dance Parents’

The comedy genre is making a major comeback in Hollywood, and Universal Pictures has just secured one of its most buzzworthy new projects. Sources confirm that after a competitive bidding war, Universal has landed “Dance Parents”, a family comedy set to star and be produced by Charlize Theron and Channing Tatum.

Star Power & Production Team

Charlize Theron and Channing Tatum, who famously danced together during the 2013 Academy Awards, are now reuniting for a full-length feature, this time stepping into the world of competitive youth dancing—and the overly passionate parents behind the scenes.

• Jonathan Levine (director of Long Shot) is attached to direct and produce

• Meghan Malloy (Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse) will write the script

• The project is currently in early development

Production Breakdown

Theron will produce through her Secret Menu banner alongside Beth Kono and AJ Dix, while Tatum will produce via his Free Association company with Reid Carolin and Peter Kiernan. Additional producers include:

• Matt Maher and Drue Robertson (Secret Menu)

• Eve Brigham and Garret Levitz (Free Association)

• Gillian Bohrer (Megamix, with Levine)

At Universal, SVP Ryan Jones and Director Christine Sun will oversee development on behalf of the studio.

What We Know About the Plot

While plot details are still under wraps, the film’s title, Dance Parents, suggests a setting in the world of youth competitive dance, possibly following intense stage moms and dads navigating the drama, passion, and chaos of their children’s performing careers.

With Tatum’s dance roots (Step Up, Magic Mike) and Theron’s versatility in both action and comedy (Long Shot), the project promises a high-energy, character-driven laugh fest that taps into family dynamics and performance culture.

Industry Momentum and Recent Successes

The announcement follows the recent theatrical success of “Happy Gilmore 2” and the reboot of “The Naked Gun”, signaling a resurgence of mainstream studio comedies in cinemas. Universal’s acquisition of Dance Parents reinforces this shift and positions the studio at the forefront of comedy’s big-screen revival.

Upcoming Projects for the Stars

• Charlize Theron has a packed slate with Netflix’s thriller Apex (co-starring Taron Egerton), and upcoming projects including:

  • The Quiet Tenant (Blumhouse)

  • Jane (psychological thriller directed by Alfonso Cuarón)

  • Two for the Money (heist film directed by Justin Lin)

• Channing Tatum will next star in:

  • “Roofman” by Derek Cianfrance

  • “Isle of Man”, a racing drama and Amazon docuseries

  • Multiple upcoming Free Association projects

• Jonathan Levine recently wrapped “Mr. Irrelevant”, a sports comedy starring David Corenswet (Superman).