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Elizabeth Banks Returns to Direct New *Charlie's Angels*

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/14 .. anks-returns-to-direct-new-charlie-s-angels.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Saturday, February 14th 2026 at 6:07 GMT by NME
      Locales: UNITED STATES, UNITED KINGDOM

Los Angeles, CA - February 14th, 2026 - Get ready to answer the call again! Elizabeth Banks is officially back at the helm of the Charlie's Angels franchise, signaling a renewed effort to bring the beloved spy saga to a new generation. The announcement, made earlier today, confirms Banks' return as director, with the project currently in the early stages of development.

Banks previously directed the 2019 Charlie's Angels reboot, starring Kristen Stewart, Ella Balinska, and Naomi Scott, and also contributed to Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle (2003) as an actress. While the 2019 installment faced a challenging theatrical run, receiving a mixed reception from critics and underperforming at the box office, Sony Pictures is clearly betting on Banks' vision to revitalize the property. This time, however, sources suggest a significant pivot in approach is planned.

The initial Charlie's Angels television series, debuting in 1976, quickly became a cultural phenomenon, captivating audiences with its blend of action, humor, and female empowerment. The series, starring Kate Jackson, Farrah Fawcett, and Jaclyn Smith, ran for five seasons, establishing a lasting legacy. Subsequent film adaptations in 2000 and 2003, directed by McG, further cemented the franchise's place in pop culture, though arguably leaned more heavily into stylized action and comedic excess.

Sources close to the production indicate that Banks is aiming for a more grounded and sophisticated take on the Charlie's Angels formula. The 2019 film attempted to modernize the premise with a global, technologically focused storyline, but failed to fully resonate with audiences. This new iteration is expected to move away from relying solely on spectacle and instead focus on complex characters, intricate storylines, and a deeper exploration of the themes of sisterhood and female agency.

"The goal isn't to simply recreate what's been done before," explains a studio insider who requested anonymity. "Elizabeth understands the core appeal of Charlie's Angels - strong, capable women working together to fight injustice. But she wants to tell a story that feels relevant to today's world, with characters who are more than just skilled operatives. We're looking at a narrative that really dives into their motivations, their vulnerabilities, and the challenges they face both professionally and personally."

Casting for the new film is currently underway, and rumors are swirling around potential newcomers who could embody the next generation of Angels. The studio is reportedly prioritizing diversity and representation, seeking actresses who not only possess the physical prowess for the action sequences but also bring authenticity and depth to their roles. Several online fan campaigns have already begun, advocating for a cast that reflects the global nature of the Townsend Agency.

The direction of the plot remains under wraps, but speculation suggests a shift away from large-scale, world-ending threats. Instead, the narrative may focus on a more localized, character-driven investigation with higher stakes tied to personal consequences. Some reports suggest a focus on combating corporate espionage and exposing corruption within powerful institutions - themes that resonate strongly in the current socio-political climate.

The failure of the 2019 film highlights the challenges of rebooting established franchises. Many critics argued that the film tried too hard to be everything to everyone, losing sight of the core essence of Charlie's Angels. Banks appears to be learning from those mistakes, aiming for a more focused and nuanced approach.

"Elizabeth has a clear vision for where she wants to take this franchise," says a member of the production team. "She's not afraid to take risks and challenge expectations. She wants to create a Charlie's Angels film that is both entertaining and empowering, one that will resonate with audiences for years to come."

The success of the new Charlie's Angels will undoubtedly depend on its ability to strike a balance between honoring the legacy of the original while forging a new path forward. If Elizabeth Banks can deliver on her promise of a fresh, character-driven story, the future of the Townsend Agency looks brighter than ever.