Rebecca Ferguson recently discussed her return in Dune 3 and revealed major differences from Frank Herbert’s Dune: Messiah. She highlighted her character’s expanded role, Denis Villeneuve’s creative direction, and the film’s reshaping of key story elements. The actress, best known for portraying Lady Jessica, shared these insights during a recent interview.
Rebecca Ferguson confirms Dune 3 return and big changes from Messiah
Speaking to IndieWire, Rebecca Ferguson explained that despite her character being mostly absent from the source material, Denis Villeneuve wanted her included in the adaptation. “I don’t have a big part in this one, [she’s] just barely in the book. I’m not sure I was supposed to be in it and Denis had a little idea,” Ferguson said. She added that the filmmaker “does dip in and out and he does try and he does want to have certain connections and tentacles to the book.”
Her comments confirm that Dune 3 will include new material not found in Herbert’s sequel novel. The film continues the story after Paul Atreides’ rise to emperor. Ferguson also praised the screenplay, calling it “phenomenal” and noting the challenge of adapting such a “dense book.” Lady Jessica’s presence in the third film contrasts with the novel, in which she remains on Caladan, away from the political turmoil surrounding Paul’s empire.
Villeneuve’s adaptation has made several major changes to Herbert’s timeline and character arcs. Dune: Part Two left Zendaya’s Chani on Arrakis, omitted Paul and Chani’s first child, and delayed the birth of Paul’s sister Alia. Bringing Jessica back continues Villeneuve’s approach of reshaping the story while keeping its central themes intact.
Ferguson reunites with Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Jason Momoa, and Florence Pugh for the sci-fi epic. Villeneuve directs Dune: Part Three, which premieres on December 18, 2026, adapting Dune: Messiah as the trilogy’s final chapter.