“Mamma Mia!” Sweetness Overload: A Reunion That Broke the Internet

What happens when the young and iconic stars of Mamma Mia! lock eyes after years apart? A heartwarming hug, caught at the PEOPLE/EW studio and instantly timestamped as today, Sept 9, 2025. Amanda Seyfried (“Sophie”) and Lily James (young Donna) pooled all the nostalgia and affection from their Here We Go Again days, triggering fan frenzy. Lily even compared Amanda to being “even better than a puppy” during a rescue-dog shoot—utterly adorable. *- EW.com

This surprise moment sparked rampant speculation about Mamma Mia 3. Producer Judy Craymer remains optimistic who teased casting ideas, while Christine Baranski dropped hints about potential plotlines and dream shooting locations. Is Mamma Mia 3 about to get real? Fans sure hope so. *- EW.com

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More TIFF Sizzle: Stars, Tributes & Tear-Jerking Moments

• Tribute Talks That Tugged at Heartstrings
  At the TIFF Tribute Awards, celebs like Idris Elba, Jodie Foster, and Channing Tatum didn’t just collect prizes—they delivered hopeful, emotional speeches about empathy, grace, and art’s healing power. Elba received the Impact Media Award, Foster was lauded as a Groundbreaker, and Tatum openly praised his mom’s unwavering support. *- Vanity Fair
• Scarlett Johansson’s Powerful Premiere
  With her directorial debut Eleanor the Great already the talk of TIFF, Johansson threw down another note-worthy moment—bringing real Holocaust survivors onto the set. A profoundly respectful choice, this casting move underscores her commitment to authenticity and community-building through film.*- People.com
• Ian McKellen’s Emotional No-Show
  Sadly, Sir Ian McKellen, aged 86, skipped the premiere of The Christophers on medical advice. His video message—”better safe than sorry”—echoed far and wide. His co-stars, including Michaela Coel and Jessica Gunning, sent out digital hugs and praise for his grace and inspiration. *- People.com | New York Post
• Hometown Pride: A Touching John Candy Tribute
  TIFF opened with the premiere of John Candy: I Like Me, a heartfelt doc that brought out Canada’s prime minister, filmmakers, and celebrities who celebrated Candy’s legacy while embracing Canadian resilience. Ryan Reynolds dazzled in a Canada-themed outfit, complete with coordinates of Candy’s hometown—pure nostalgia. *- ReutersEW.com

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Quick Recap of TIFF’s Biggest Moments

Event / Star	Why It’s Buzz-Worthy
Amanda Seyfried + Lily James	Surprise heartwarming reunion sparked hopes for Mamma Mia 3
Scarlett Johansson	Emotional directorial debut, casting real survivors for authenticity
Ian McKellen	Missed premiere due to health—still touched hearts via video
TIFF Tribute Awards	Celebs going deep on empathy, art, and resilience
John Candy: I Like Me Premiere	Nostalgic tribute with political and cultural weight

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