# Disney Zootopia franchise expansion

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/disney-zootopia-franchise-expansion
> Updated: 2026-09-05T10:03:18.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 3.

Walt Disney Animation Studios has officially confirmed that a third installment of the Zootopia franchise is in development. The announcement was made by director Jared Bush during the D23 event in Anaheim, California.

The new film follows the commercial success of Zootopia 2, which became the highest-grossing American animated film ever, earning between $1.8 billion and $1.85 billion globally. While specific plot details remain confidential, the production is expected to expand the animal metropolis by introducing birds to the setting. Confirmed returning characters include Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde, and Ke Huy Quan is set to reprise his role as Gary De’Snake.

Regarding the central dynamic of the series, director Byron Howard indicated that the upcoming film will continue to explore the ambiguous relationship between Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps. Addressing the long-standing fan debate over whether the duo should be romantic or platonic, Howard stated, “I think we will continue to lean into that and play with it,” suggesting the creators do not intend to definitively resolve the nature of their relationship in the near future.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-05: Zootopia 3 director to maintain ambiguity of Nick and Judy's relationship

Director Byron Howard confirmed that Zootopia 3 will continue to explore the ambiguous relationship between Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps, maintaining the tension between friendship and romance.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/zootopia-3-director-to-maintain-ambiguity-of-nick-and-judys-relationship

### 2026-08-20: Disney confirms Zootopia 3 is in development

Disney has confirmed Zootopia 3 is in development, following the massive box office success of the second film. The new installment will introduce birds to the franchise.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/disney-confirms-zootopia-3-is-in-development

### 2026-08-18: Disney announces Zootopia 3 following record-breaking sequel success

Disney announced Zootopia 3 at the D23 event in Anaheim. The film follows the record-breaking success of the second installment and is expected to feature birds as a central focus.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/disney-announces-zootopia-3-following-record-breaking-sequel-success

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Cite as: Disney Zootopia franchise expansion. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/disney-zootopia-franchise-expansion