Mara Wilson does not rule out a matilda sequel, but there are some problems to solve first.
Speaking at Fanboy Expo earlier this month, the former child star said she’s open to revisiting the beloved character, although she has reservations about one of the most popular fan theories.
“People always ask me about doing Matilda 2. And that could be possible,” Wilson, 38, said, according to People magazine. However, he questioned the frequently suggested concept of centering the story on Matilda’s daughter.
“One thing people always say is, ‘Oh, maybe she could be Matilda’s daughter.’ And I have some problems with that, because I think Matilda’s powers come from her adversity,” Wilson observed. “They come from the bad things that she went through, and the point is that she overcame them.”
She explained that Matilda’s journey was about finding strength through learning, friendship and perseverance despite her difficult upbringing. “And that’s why I don’t think Matilda raised her daughter to be in a position where she could develop those powers to protect herself,” Wilson speculated.
Wilson also admitted that another question had stumped her. “Also, and this is a complicated question, but who would Matilda marry? Who is good enough for Matilda? Matilda is such a wonderful character that I can’t imagine who she would marry and have children with, you know?”
Released in 1996 and directed by Danny DeVito, matilda became a beloved family classic. While no sequel has been announced, Roald Dahl’s story has lived on ever since through the successful stage production. Matilda the musical and its 2022 film adaptation starring Alisha Weir.
