Zootopia 2: A new adventure in the animal kingdom

The bunny is back

Walt Disney Animation Studios has finally given fans a glimpse of the much-anticipated sequel, Zootopia 2. The original film, which captivated audiences worldwide in 2016, is set to return with even more excitement and adventure. At the recent D23 Expo, Ginnifer Goodwin, the voice behind Judy Hopps, enthusiastically announced, “The bunny is back!” This declaration was met with cheers from fans who have been eagerly awaiting the return of their favorite animated characters.

Revisiting the world of Zootopia

Reflecting on the original film, Goodwin shared, “Zootopia is my happy place, and I am so ready for the world to see this crazy new adventure.” The sequel promises to bring back beloved characters such as Mr. Big, Clawhauser, and Flash the Sloth, while also introducing a host of new animals to the Zootopia universe.

One of the exciting new additions is Ke Huy Quan, known for his roles in “Loki” and “Indiana Jones.” Quan will voice a reptile named Gary, a “creepy, slithery, highly venomous viper.” Gary is set to play a significant role in Nick and Judy’s latest case, marking the first time reptiles will be featured in the Zootopia world.

A sneak peek at the new adventure

During the D23 Expo, an exclusive clip was shown, featuring Nick and Judy on the hunt for Gary in Marsh Market, a bustling area inhabited by semi-aquatic animals. The scene was filled with humorous and lively moments, including hippos getting tattoos, riding waterslides, seals munching on algae, and even a plumber sea lion.

The creative minds behind the sequel

Jared Bush, who co-directed the original film, returns to write and direct the sequel. Jason Bateman and Ginnifer Goodwin will reprise their roles as Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps, respectively. According to the official logline, “Zootopia 2” will follow “brave rabbit cop Judy Hopps and her friend, the fox Nick Wilde, as they team up again to crack a new case, the most perilous and intricate of their careers.”

The legacy of Zootopia

The first Zootopia film was a massive success, opening to $75 million at the domestic box office in 2016. It became the largest opening for any of Disney’s non-Pixar animated films at the time, a record now held by “Frozen 2.” The movie went on to earn $341 million domestically and nearly double that amount internationally, with a worldwide gross of just over $1 billion. This achievement makes it the third highest-grossing animated Disney film of all time, behind “Frozen” and “Frozen II.”

In 2022, Disney+ released Zootopia+, an anthology miniseries featuring seven-minute shorts starring side characters from the Zootopia universe. The series was directed and written by Disney animator Trent Corey and storyboard artist Josie Trinidad.

Looking ahead

With Jared Bush at the helm and producers Jennifer Lee and Yvett Merino on board, Zootopia 2 is set to hit theaters on November 26, 2025. Fans can look forward to another thrilling adventure with Judy and Nick as they navigate the complexities of their latest case.

For those who want to revisit the original film or catch up on the Zootopia+ series, you can find more information and trailers here.

Personal reflections

As a cinema and TV series enthusiast, the return of Zootopia holds a special place in my heart. The original film was not just a visual delight but also a narrative masterpiece that tackled important social issues through the lens of an animated world. The introduction of new characters like Gary the viper adds an exciting layer to the story, promising fresh dynamics and challenges for our beloved duo, Judy and Nick.

The success of the first film set a high bar, and the anticipation for the sequel is palpable. The creative team’s decision to expand the Zootopia universe with new environments and characters shows their commitment to keeping the story fresh and engaging. The Marsh Market scene, with its vibrant and humorous depiction of semi-aquatic life, is a testament to the imaginative world-building that fans have come to love.

Zootopia 2 is shaping up to be a worthy successor to the original film. With its blend of humor, adventure, and social commentary, it promises to be a cinematic experience that will resonate with audiences of all ages. As we count down the days to its release, the excitement and anticipation continue to build, making it one of the most awaited films of the coming years.