Following the immense global success of its predecessor, 'Zootopia 2', which achieved a remarkable $1.87 billion at the worldwide box office, Disney has confirmed the initiation of a third installment in the beloved animated franchise.
Disney Unveils Plans for 'Zootopia 3' at D23 Event
During the highly anticipated D23 fan event held on a recent Friday, Disney Animation head Jared Bush, alongside stars Ginnifer Goodwin and Ke Huy Quan, officially announced the development of 'Zootopia 3'. Goodwin, who voices the lead character Judy Hopps, enthusiastically proclaimed that "The bunny and the snake will be back!", signaling the return of fan-favorite characters. Bush further elaborated that this new chapter will not only bring back familiar faces but also introduce a fresh storyline centered around avian characters, promising an exciting expansion of the vibrant animal metropolis.
The original 'Zootopia' film, released in 2016, captivated audiences worldwide, earning over $1 billion. Its sequel, launched nine years later, further solidified the franchise's popularity by breaking box office records. Even before 'Zootopia 2' achieved its monumental success, the creative team expressed keen interest in continuing the series. Goodwin, in a November 2025 interview with The Hollywood Reporter, openly wished for a third movie after a shorter hiatus, highlighting the strong desire from both cast and creators to revisit the 'Zootopia' universe. Directors Jared Bush and Byron Howard echoed this sentiment, with Bush stating their willingness to dedicate their careers to the franchise, emphasizing the vast narrative potential within its diverse world.
The announcement of 'Zootopia 3' underscores Disney's commitment to expanding successful animated properties and catering to the enduring affection fans hold for the animal-filled world of Zootopia. This continuation promises more adventures, new characters, and further exploration of the franchise's rich storytelling landscape.
