Detectives Hopps and Wilde go undercover to solve a city-shaking mystery as a mysterious reptile turns Zootopia upside down, putting their partnership—and the city—on the line.
“Zootopia 2” marks a major return for Disney Animation, arriving nine years after the release of the original, Oscar-winning film. This new adventure officially premieres in U.S. theaters on November 26, 2025, following its world premiere at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood earlier in the month. The sequel is directed by Byron Howard and Jared Bush, the creative minds behind the first film and “Encanto,” with Bush also serving as screenwriter and Yvett Merino as producer.
In “Zootopia 2,” audience favorites Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin) and Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman) are back as partners, now working as detectives in the sprawling, culturally-diverse city of Zootopia. The plot centers on the mysterious arrival of Gary De’Snake (voiced by Ke Huy Quan), a charismatic and cunning pit viper whose presence unsettles the entire animal metropolis. When Gary’s arrival prompts chaos and suspicion, Judy and Nick are thrust into their most challenging case yet, going undercover into unrevealed corners of Zootopia—including the “Marsh Market”—to crack the puzzle. Their journey puts their partnership and problem-solving skills to the ultimate test, combining comedic moments with high-stakes drama.
The cast welcomes several new characters, such as Nibbles (Fortune Feimster), Dr. Fuzzby the quokka therapist (Quinta Brunson), and other voices by Andy Samberg, David Strathairn, and Patrick Warburton. Shakira returns as Gazelle, contributing to the film’s vibrant soundtrack, which promises new hit songs alongside dynamic musical sequences.
Production on “Zootopia 2” began after years of anticipation. Discussions for a sequel started soon after the first film’s stunning global success in 2016, and official development was announced by Disney CEO Bob Iger in February 2023. The film entered production in 2024, with principal cast returning to voice sessions and the creative team finalizing the story’s direction by April. Animation, music, and post-production continued through 2025, with the project officially entering post-production by May.
Disney’s marketing campaign for the movie has been as inventive as the film itself. In November 2025, Los Angeles saw remote-controlled vehicles carrying animatronic puppets of Judy, Nick, and Gary—an eye-catching and well-received public stunt designed to build excitement before release. Trailers showcase new districts, creative action setpieces, and a deepening of Judy and Nick’s personal and professional dynamic.
Zootopia 2 is being promoted as a family-friendly adventure suitable for all ages, with a runtime of approximately 108 minutes. While the sequel continues to deliver the lighthearted comedy, sharp wit, and social commentary that defined the first film, it further explores new societal themes introduced through the arrival of reptilian characters. The story aims to blend mystery, emotional growth, and action-packed sequences, ensuring appeal to fans of the original and newcomers alike. Early buzz suggests the film will stand among Disney’s strongest sequels, adding another chapter to Zootopia’s cinematic legacy.
