According to Variety, Disney has signed helmer Michael Lembeck for The Santa Clause 3, clearing the way for pic to start shooting in November. As previously announced, topliner Tim Allen will return.

Studio is aiming for a holiday 2006 release slot.

Ed Decter and John Strauss are writing the screenplay. The pair shared screenplay credit on The Santa Clause 2.

In Santa Clause 3 Santa, aka Scott Calvin, struggles to keep his new family happy while battling Jack Frost, who is trying to take over Christmas.