Air Bud Returns

Air Bud Returns (2027)



0.0 2027 — United States of America

Director: Robert Vince

Cast: Roscoe, Aydin Artis, Tracy Ifeachor, Edwin Lee Gibson, Tyler Labine

A 12-year-old boy named Jacob dreams of basketball stardom while grieving the death of his father. When he and his mother relocate to his dad’s old hometown of Fernfield, Jacob uncovers a dusty VHS tape showing his father playing on a local court alongside an incredible golden retriever who can sink shots. Determined to follow in those paw prints, Jacob befriends a lonely, overlooked golden retriever, naming him Buddy, and together they dribble toward an unforgettable adventure.

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More About This Film

Directed by Robert Vince and written by Vince alongside Aaron Mendelsohn and Paul Tamasy, Air Bud Returns is a comedy, family, and sports film produced by Cineverse and Air Bud Entertainment. The movie serves as a continuation of the beloved "Air Bud" franchise, bringing back the iconic premise of dogs playing basketball but with a fresh narrative centered on healing and new beginnings. Set for release in early 2027, the film aims to capture the heartwarming spirit that made the original series a staple for family audiences.

The story follows Jacob, a 12-year-old boy who is grieving the loss of his father. After moving into his late father's childhood home in Fernfield, Jacob discovers an old VHS tape of the original Air Bud movie. This discovery leads him to meet Buddy, a neglected golden retriever whom he adopts. Together, Jacob and Buddy form a bond that helps Jacob process his grief while they rally a team of misfits to pursue their basketball dreams. The film emphasizes themes of trust, seizing opportunities, and playing from the heart.

  • Robert Vince, the producer behind the original Air Bud films, directs this project, marking his 50th produced film.
  • Two golden retrievers named Charlie and Summer were selected through a nationwide casting call to share the role of Buddy.
  • Principal photography began on October 1, 2025, in Vancouver and Maple Ridge, British Columbia, Canada.
  • The cast includes Tyler Labine, Tracy Ifeachor, Brendan Fletcher, Edwin Lee Gibson, and Kingston Goodjohn.

Where to Watch

Air Bud Returns is scheduled for theatrical release in January 2027, with subsequent digital availability expected later.