The 5 Shocking New Projects Mel Brooks Is Working On At Age 99
The answer to the burning question, "Is Mel Brooks still alive?" is a resounding and joyful yes! As of today, December 23, 2025, the legendary filmmaker, comedian, and actor, Melvin James Brooks, is alive and well, continuing his career that spans over seven decades. The comedy titan, who is set to celebrate his 99th birthday on June 28, 2026, isn't just enjoying a quiet retirement; he is actively involved in multiple major Hollywood projects, proving that his comedic genius remains as sharp and relevant as ever. His incredible longevity and continued creative output are a testament to his enduring legacy in the world of entertainment.
The curiosity surrounding Mel Brooks' current status is understandable, given his age and his monumental contributions to film and television, including classics like Blazing Saddles, Young Frankenstein, and The Producers. However, recent announcements about a long-awaited sequel and a major television spin-off have confirmed that the EGOT winner is busier than ever, demonstrating a creative vitality that few can match. This article dives into the latest updates on his life, his complete biography, and the exciting new projects that will cement his status as a comedy immortal.
Mel Brooks: The Essential Biography and Profile
Melvin James Brooks (né Kaminsky) is one of the most decorated and influential figures in American comedy and filmmaking. His career is marked by a distinctive style of irreverent, satirical, and often musical humor that has redefined the genre.
- Full Name: Melvin James Kaminsky
- Stage Name: Mel Brooks
- Date of Birth: June 28, 1926
- Current Age (as of Dec 2025): 99
- Place of Birth: Brooklyn, New York, U.S.
- Spouse: Anne Bancroft (m. 1964; d. 2005)
- Children: Max Brooks (with Anne Bancroft)
- Career Span: Over seven decades (starting in the late 1940s)
- Notable Collaborator: Carl Reiner (The 2000 Year Old Man)
- Military Service: Served in the U.S. Army during World War II, defusing land mines and fighting in the Battle of the Bulge.
- EGOT Status: Achieved EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony) status in 2001, making him one of only 21 people in history to do so.
The Comedy Legend's Shocking New Projects and Latest Activities
Despite approaching his 100th year, Mel Brooks has not slowed down. His involvement in new projects is a major source of fresh and unique content for comedy fans, proving his influence spans generations. The following are the most up-to-date and significant developments in his career.
1. Spaceballs 2: The Sequel is Officially Happening (2027 Release)
After decades of speculation and fan demand, the sequel to Brooks' iconic 1987 Star Wars parody, Spaceballs, is officially in development. This is arguably the most surprising news from the Brooks camp in years.
- Official Title: Spaceballs 2 (tentative)
- Release Date: Targeted for a 2027 theatrical release.
- Studio: Amazon MGM Studios.
- Cast Involvement: Mel Brooks himself is set to reprise his role as President Skroob and Yogurt. The sequel is also expected to feature original star Bill Pullman and the return of Rick Moranis, who has been largely retired from acting. Keke Palmer is also mentioned as a new cast member.
- Significance: The original film, which spoofed George Lucas's space opera, has a massive cult following, and its return will introduce Brooks’s unique brand of satire to a new generation of filmgoers.
2. The 'Very Young Frankenstein' FX Series Pilot
The creative team behind the hit FX series What We Do in the Shadows is partnering with Mel Brooks to develop a spin-off of his 1974 masterpiece, Young Frankenstein. This project, titled Very Young Frankenstein, has been given a pilot order by FX.
The original film, which starred Gene Wilder, is considered one of the greatest comedy films ever made. The new series will continue the comedic legacy, with Brooks giving his blessing and being actively involved in the development. The series will be a major event for fans of both the classic film and modern comedy.
Key details confirm a high-profile production, with Taika Waititi (known for Jojo Rabbit and Thor: Ragnarok) directing the pilot and Stefani Robinson serving as a writer and executive producer. Furthermore, actor Cary Elwes is set to play the President of the United States in the new series.
3. Recent On-Camera Appearance on 'Somebody Feed Phil'
In a recent and heartwarming public appearance, Mel Brooks was featured on the Netflix food and travel documentary series Somebody Feed Phil. Hosted by Phil Rosenthal, the episode aired in June 2025 and provided a rare, current glimpse of the comedy legend, showing him in good spirits and health, further confirming his active status. This cameo delighted fans and offered a personal look at the man behind the comedic mask.
The Immortal Legacy: Mel Brooks' EGOT Status and Influence
Mel Brooks is one of the few people to have achieved the rare and prestigious EGOT status, an acronym for winning an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony Award. This achievement alone places him in an elite class of entertainers whose work spans every major medium.
The EGOT Breakdown
Brooks completed his EGOT in 2001, primarily through his work on the Broadway adaptation of his 1967 film, The Producers. The musical adaptation was a massive success, winning a record 12 Tony Awards, three of which went directly to Brooks for Best Musical, Original Score, and Book of a Musical.
- Emmy Awards: Won multiple times for his work on The Sid Caesar Show and for guest-starring roles later in his career.
- Grammy Awards: Won for the comedy album The 2000 Year Old Man in the Year 2000 (with Carl Reiner) and for the musical soundtrack of The Producers.
- Oscar (Academy Award): Won Best Original Screenplay for his debut feature film, The Producers (1968).
- Tony Awards: Won three awards in 2001 for The Producers.
His EGOT status is a testament to his versatility as a writer, director, composer, and performer. His early career as a writer for Sid Caesar’s Your Show of Shows provided the foundation for his later success in film and theater, making him a true Renaissance man of comedy. His influence can be seen in the work of countless modern comedians and satirists.
The Enduring Power of Comedy
The fact that Mel Brooks is not only still alive but actively developing major new projects—including a sequel to Spaceballs and a spin-off of Young Frankenstein—is a remarkable story of creative longevity. His continued involvement ensures that his unique, satirical voice will continue to entertain and influence audiences for years to come. From his early days in World War II to his current status as a living legend, Brooks’s career is a masterclass in the enduring power of laughter. Fans can look forward to a new wave of Brooks-ian comedy with the 2027 release of Spaceballs 2 and the upcoming Very Young Frankenstein series.
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