Disney’s Hexed and Zootopia 2 Updates Revealed at D23 Showcase

August 31, 2025 MTIMES 262 Views animated films 2026, Disney D23 announcements, Disney Hexed, Disney Hexed release date, Entertainment news updates, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Zootopia 2, Zootopia 2 release date 3 min read

At the Destination D23 showcase, Walt Disney Animation Studios unveiled its next original animated film “Hexed”, a magical coming-of-age story that is set to mesmerize audiences when it hits cinemas in November 2026. The film, announced by Chief Creative Officer Jared Bush, follows the journey of an awkward teenage boy and his highly organized mother, who stumble upon the discovery that the boy’s quirks may actually be magical powers. This revelation sets them on an extraordinary path that disrupts both their lives and an unseen world of magic.

Directed by Josie Trinidad and Jason Hand, with Roy Conli and Juan Pablo Reyes Lancaster-Jones producing, Hexed promises to combine wit, emotional depth, and Disney’s signature sense of wonder, making it one of the most anticipated animated releases of the decade.

Disney Hexed release date announced for November 2026

The announcement of Hexed at D23 created a wave of excitement among fans. The story revolves around a teenager navigating the challenges of self-discovery while balancing his strained relationship with his mother. When his hidden magical abilities come to light, their ordinary existence takes a dramatic turn into the fantastical.

With Disney highlighting the film’s universal theme of acceptance and growth, Hexed is expected to deliver both emotional resonance and visual spectacle, continuing the studio’s legacy of original animated storytelling.

Disney Hexed cast and creative team bring magic to life

The creative force behind Hexed includes veteran Disney talents. Directors Josie Trinidad and Jason Hand are set to make their mark with this original feature, while Academy Award-winning producer Roy Conli and Juan Pablo Reyes Lancaster-Jones are steering production. Together, they aim to bring a rich, heartfelt narrative filled with humor, adventure, and magical twists.

The announcement positions Hexed as a major highlight of Disney’s upcoming slate, reinforcing the studio’s commitment to fresh stories that resonate across generations.

Zootopia 2 adds new characters and voice cast at D23

Alongside Hexed, Disney revealed new updates on Zootopia 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the blockbuster 2016 hit. Directors Jared Bush and Byron Howard introduced new cast members, including Yvette Nicole Brown, who will voice the Bearoness and EMT Otter, and Patrick Warburton as Mayor Winddancer.

The sequel continues the adventures of rookie cops Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin) and Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman). This time, they face a new challenge when Gary De’Snake (voiced by Ke Huy Quan) arrives in Zootopia, throwing the bustling animal city into turmoil.

Zootopia 2 release date set for November 2026 with star-studded cast

In Zootopia 2, Judy and Nick must go undercover into uncharted parts of the metropolis, testing their partnership like never before. The film also features returning voices and new additions, including Shakira, Quinta Brunson, and Fortune Feimster, with Yvett Merino producing.

Set to release in November 2026, the sequel promises laughter, thrills, and heartfelt moments, making it one of Disney’s most eagerly awaited projects.

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