In the midst of a string of animated box office flops, Disney has announced sequels to three of its most popular animated films: Frozen, Toy Story, and Zootopia.
“Today I’m so pleased to announce that we have sequels in the works from our animation studios to some of our most popular franchises, Toy Story, Frozen, and Zootopia,” Disney CEO Bob Iger said during the company’s Q1 earnings call. “We’ll have more to share about these productions soon, but this is a great example of how we’re leaning into our unrivaled brands and franchises.”
It’s not surprising Disney is about to churn out a trio of sequels. The company’s latest films haven’t exactly been blowing up the box office. I mean, 2022’s Strange World only grossed $73.4 million globally. 2021’s Encanto also underperformed but was reportedly a huge hit on Disney+. Lightyear, Pixar’s first theatrical film since 2020’s Onward, also wasn’t the hit I think Disney and Pixar thought it was going to be. Everybody loves Frozen and Toy Story and a new mainline entry in each respective franchise will surely hit $1 billion easily.
Zootopia is a bit hard to say. I don’t think it has had the staying power Frozen or Toy Story has shown to have, but I could be wrong. Even if it did half as well as the 2016 original, it would still hit $500 million and be a moderate box office success.
We’ll keep you posted as more information becomes available for these sequels, but already Tim Allen has hinted on Twitter that he will be back to voice Buzz Lightyear. (Sorry, Chris Evans.)
See ya soon Woody, you are a sad strange little man and you have my pity. And off we go to a number 5! To infinity and beyond! pic.twitter.com/bwRzE487Vi
— Tim Allen (@ofctimallen) February 9, 2023
None of these sequels have release dates, although Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar have planted their flags on certain release dates from now through 2026.
Are you excited about new installments in these three franchises? How will Toy Story 5 conclude Buzz and Woody’s story this time?
