**The year 1995 brought audiences a delightful return to the chaotic, yet endearing, world of the Banks family with *Father of the Bride Part II*. This highly anticipated sequel to the beloved 1991 comedy once again put George Banks, played by the incomparable Steve Martin, through the wringer, this time not with one, but two unexpected life-altering announcements. The film's enduring charm and comedic brilliance owe much to its stellar ensemble, a cast that perfectly captured the joys, anxieties, and absurdities of family life.** As a direct follow-up to the original, *Father of the Bride Part II* masterfully continued the narrative, building on the established characters and their dynamics. It was a film that resonated with audiences then and continues to do so today, largely thanks to the unforgettable performances delivered by its lead actors and the talented supporting cast. From the central trio of Steve Martin, Diane Keaton, and Martin Short, to the returning Kimberly Williams-Paisley, each member brought a unique flavor to this heartwarming and hilarious story. *** ## Table of Contents * [A Legacy Continues: The Story Behind Father of the Bride Part II](#a-legacy-continues-the-story-behind-father-of-the-bride-part-ii) * [The Banks Family Expands: Plot Overview](#the-banks-family-expands-plot-overview) * [The Iconic Trio: Leading the Laughter](#the-iconic-trio-leading-the-laughter) * [Steve Martin as George Banks: The Anxious Patriarch](#steve-martin-as-george-banks-the-anxious-patriarch) * [Diane Keaton as Nina Banks: The Grounding Force](#diane-keaton-as-nina-banks-the-grounding-force) * [Martin Short as Franck Eggelhoffer: The Unforgettable Wedding Planner](#martin-short-as-franck-eggelhoffer-the-unforgettable-wedding-planner) * [The Next Generation: Kimberly Williams-Paisley as Annie Banks](#the-next-generation-kimberly-williams-paisley-as-annie-banks) * [Behind the Scenes: The Creative Minds](#behind-the-scenes-the-creative-minds) * [Critical Reception and Enduring Appeal](#critical-reception-and-enduring-appeal) * [The Full Ensemble: Supporting Cast Members](#the-full-ensemble-supporting-cast-members) * [Conclusion](#conclusion) *** ## A Legacy Continues: The Story Behind Father of the Bride Part II *Father of the Bride Part II* is a 1995 American comedy film that proudly carries the torch from its successful predecessor, *Father of the Bride*. Directed by Charles Shyer and written by Nancy Meyers, the creative duo behind the first film, it ensured a consistent tone and comedic sensibility. What many might not realize is that this 1995 comedy sequel isn't just a continuation of the 1991 story; it's also a remake of the 1951 film *Father's Little Dividend*. This earlier film served as the sequel to the original *Father of the Bride* released in 1950, showcasing a rich cinematic lineage for the Banks family's adventures. The success of the 1991 film naturally paved the way for *Father of the Bride Part II* to be released four years later. The enduring popularity of the franchise is evident even today, with a 2022 American romantic comedy film, directed by Gaz Alazraki and written by Matt Lopez, serving as a reimagining of the titular 1950 and 1991 movies. This newer iteration, starring Andy Garcia and Gloria Estefan, marks the sixth overall installment in the *Father of the Bride* franchise, underscoring the timeless appeal of a father grappling with his children growing up and starting their own families. However, our focus remains on the iconic 1995 *Father of the Bride Part II cast* that brought this particular chapter to life. ## The Banks Family Expands: Plot Overview The premise of *Father of the Bride Part II* perfectly captures the anxieties of a patriarch who just wants things to stay the same, or at least, predictable. Just when George Banks (Steve Martin) has gotten used to his daughter, Annie (Kimberly Williams-Paisley), being married and settled, his world is once again turned upside down. Annie announces that she's pregnant, sending George into a familiar spiral of panic and denial about becoming a grandfather. But the surprises don't stop there. In a truly comical turn of events, George's wife, Nina (Diane Keaton), also announces that she's pregnant at the same time. This double dose of baby news leads to a series of comical events and profound introspection for George. He must deal not only with his daughter's pregnancy but also with his wife's, navigating the emotional rollercoaster of impending grandparenthood and unexpected fatherhood simultaneously. The film humorously explores George's mid-life crisis, including his contemplation of selling the family home. He muses that "Matty will be in college one of these days, and maybe the old house is just too big," not to mention the "maintenance problems." This plot provides fertile ground for the *Father of the Bride Part II cast* to shine, delivering both heartfelt moments and uproarious laughter. ## The Iconic Trio: Leading the Laughter The heart and soul of *Father of the Bride Part II* undoubtedly lie with its three leading stars: Steve Martin, Diane Keaton, and Martin Short. Their unparalleled chemistry and comedic timing elevate the film from a simple sequel to a classic in its own right. ### Steve Martin as George Banks: The Anxious Patriarch Steve Martin's portrayal of George Banks is nothing short of iconic. He perfectly embodies the quintessential anxious father, a man constantly on the verge of a breakdown, yet deeply loving and ultimately adaptable. In *Father of the Bride Part II*, George's neuroses are amplified by the double pregnancy news, leading to some of the film's most memorable comedic moments. His struggle to accept his daughter's growing independence and his own aging process is relatable to many, making him a character audiences can both laugh at and empathize with. **Steve Martin: Key Information** | Attribute | Details Father