The Brief

LOS ANGELES - One of America’s most famous golden retrievers is headed back to the basketball court.

Cineverse and Air Bud Entertainment announced that "Air Bud Returns" will hit theaters in summer 2026, the first movie in the franchise to get a big-screen release since 1998. The family film is written and directed by Robert Vince, who created the original "Air Bud" in 1997.

Golden retrievers audition to be the next Air Bud

For the first time in franchise history, filmmakers are holding open auditions to find the dog that will play Buddy, the basketball-playing golden retriever at the heart of the series.

"We introduced the world to an incredible retriever called Air Bud," Vince said. "For the first time ever, we’re opening up the auditions for the next Air Bud."

Applican

See Full Page