The long-awaited Zootopia 2 release date in the United States is set for November 26, 2025, marking a major return for Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde. This new chapter from Disney drops just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday, and fans are already lining up tickets.
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Release Details and Theatrical Plans
The film opens nationwide on Wednesday, November 26, 2025. That date puts it smack in the holiday window—a key strategic slot for family-friendly features. The premiere event took place earlier in November in Los Angeles, offering a first look for cast, media and invited guests. Most importantly, the U.S. will enjoy a wide theatrical opening on that November date.
For now, no streaming or digital home-release date has been announced. The focus remains on a full theatrical rollout, suggesting the studio expects a big box-office push in the holiday period.
Key Personnel and Story Highlights
Here are some of the major facts that are confirmed:
- Directors: Jared Bush and Byron Howard.
- Producer: Yvett Merino.
- Returning voice leads: Ginnifer Goodwin and Jason Bateman.
- New character: A mysterious reptile, voiced by Ke Huy Quan, enters the metropolis and shakes things up.
- Additional info: A new original song, “Zoo,” features Shakira and Ed Sheeran.
Story-wise, the plot picks up with Judy and Nick once again teaming up to crack a high-stakes mystery in the sprawling city of Zootopia. They confront a strange new threat, head undercover into uncharted zones of their animal world, and find their dynamic tested in unexpected ways.
Why That Date Matters for U.S. Movie-goers
Choosing November 26 for release carries several strategic advantages:
- Holiday weekend magnet: Thanksgiving week in the U.S. traditionally draws large family audiences. Opening on or just after Thanksgiving gives the film a chance to dominate for multiple days.
- Limited competition: Major summers are crowded with blockbusters; late November offers a sweet spot for animated fare.
- Reserve tickets early: With the date locked in, fans can start booking showtimes and planning visits. Families especially can treat it as part of their holiday outing.
- Theater-first window: The exclusive focus on theatrical release means that going to cinemas is currently the only way to see it, boosting the event nature of the film.
What to Do Now if You’re in the U.S.
Here are practical steps for movie-goers:
- Mark the date: November 26.
- Check your local theaters for showtime listings as they roll out.
- Consider holiday outing plans: The timing is ideal for family, friends or multi-generation visits.
- Stay alert for ticket sales: Big releases like this tend to have fast uptake.
- Keep an eye on announcements for streaming/digital release: While no date is set yet, it’s likely to follow months after the theatrical run.
What We Know (and What We Don’t)
✅ Confirmed
- U.S. theatrical release date: November 26, 2025.
- Directors, main cast, and major plot hook (new reptile antagonist).
- Original song collaboration: Shakira/Ed Sheeran.
- Wide domestic distribution by major studio.
❓ Still Waiting
- Exact digital release date or streaming debut: Not yet announced.
- Runtime, full cast list, and all regional release variations.
- Specific box office targets or full marketing roll-out details (though early projections exist).
- Additional tie-in promotions, merch drops, or themed events (some have been teased).
Quick Reference Table
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Title | Zootopia 2 |
| U.S. Release Date | November 26, 2025 |
| Directors | Jared Bush & Byron Howard |
| Producer | Yvett Merino |
| Returning Leads | Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman |
| New Antagonist | Reptile (voiced by Ke Huy Quan) |
| Theatrical-only Window | Yes (for now) |
| Streaming Home Release | TBD |
Final Thoughts
This release date signals a big moment for fans of the original film and new viewers alike. With a holiday-period drop, returning characters, fresh threats and high production pedigree, expectations are high. If you’re planning to visit theaters, now is the time to circle the calendar, set reminders, and maybe even plan a group outing.
Ready to join Judy and Nick on this new adventure? Let us know in the comments what part you’re most excited about, and stay tuned for more updates as the big day approaches.