American star Zendaya is preparing to enter a new phase in her film career with Dune: Part Three, following media reports that she may compete for an Oscar in the Best Actress category, rather than Best Supporting Actress, the category associated with her in the previous two installments of the franchise.
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According to a report published by Variety and carried by IMDb on October 23, 2026, the potential move comes as Chani’s role expands in the third installment, which concludes director Denis Villeneuve’s trilogy and places her relationship with Paul Atreides at the center of the transformations unfolding on Arrakis. Warner Bros. and Zendaya’s representatives have not yet issued an official comment on the reports.
Why is Zendaya’s role changing in Dune 3?
The new installment appears to give Chani, played by Zendaya, a more influential role in the story, as Paul Atreides, portrayed by Timothée Chalamet, becomes emperor and faces the consequences of his decisions, along with conflicts threatening his rule.
According to the film’s official synopsis, Chani finds herself at the center of a mystery intertwined with political conspiracies and escalating threats, while Paul confronts the consequences of power and the price those he loves may have to pay.
This shift gives Zendaya’s character greater dramatic depth, which may explain reports suggesting that she could be put forward in the leading actress category during the upcoming awards season.
The story of Dune: Part Three: A new conflict awaits Zendaya
The film takes place approximately 17 years after the events of the second installment. Paul continues to grapple with the consequences of his rise to power amid new threats and attempts to overthrow him, while his relationship with Chani becomes increasingly complicated by the changes brought about by power and war.
The film is based on Frank Herbert’s novel Dune Messiah. Denis Villeneuve returns as director, alongside several stars from the franchise, including Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Florence Pugh, Rebecca Ferguson, Javier Bardem and Jason Momoa. Robert Pattinson also joins the cinematic universe as Scytale.
Dune 3 release date
Dune: Part Three is scheduled to open in cinemas and IMAX theaters worldwide starting December 16, 2026, with its North American release set for December 18, according to the film’s official website.
As the release date approaches, attention is turning to Zendaya’s role in the trilogy’s final chapter and whether Chani will give her a different presence during awards season, potentially marking a new milestone in her film career.
