Back in June, Universal Pictures confirmed that Pitch Perfect 3 is happening, with the studio setting a Summer 2017 release date for the upcoming sequel. Pitch Perfect and Pitch Perfect 2 stars Anna Kendrick and Rebel Wilson were confirmed to return, along with screenwriter Kay Cannon, who had written the first two installments. Today, another piece of the sequel's puzzle has come into place, with Variety reporting that Pitch Perfect 2 director Elizabeth Banks is coming back to direct the follow-up.

Brittany Snow has also finalized her deal to return for Pitch Perfect 3, and Hailee Steinfeld is expected to be back as well. When Hailee Steinfeld signed on for Pitch Perfect 2 back in April 2014, it was reported that she was being eyed to headline future sequels and take over the franchise. With Anna Kendrick, Rebel Wilson and Brittany Snow returning as Beca, Fat Amy and Chloe, respectively, it isn't known if that initial plan is still in place.

Elizabeth Banks was reportedly considering other projects when Universal Pictures solidified an August 4, 2017 release for Pitch Perfect 3 last month, and hadn't committed to returning quite yet. The actress/filmmaker is also attached to direct the YA fantasy adaptation Red Queen, as well as Sony's reboot of Charlie's Angels, but both projects are still in early development stages. It isn't known when production is expected to begin on Pitch Perfect 3 quite yet.

2012's Pitch Perfect was one of the surprise box office hits that year, pulling in $115.3 million worldwide from a $17 million production budget. The sequel, Pitch Perfect 2, opened this May, earning $183.7 million domestic and $285.1 million worldwide, from a $29 million budget. Both films have also spawned hit soundtracks, and Anna Kendrick's single "Cups" from the original soundtrack went triple platinum.

Elizabeth Banks will also be back to produce alongside Max Handelman through their Brownstone Pictures' Company, and Gold Circle Entertainment's Paul Brooks. Elizabeth Banks will next be seen on the big screen in her final turn as Effie Trinket in The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2, arriving in theaters November 20. She will also host Saturday Night Live on November 14. Are you glad the actress/director is coming back to direct Pitch Perfect 3?