The long-awaited sequel to the 2016 Oscar winner has officially overtaken Pixar’s “Inside Out 2” to become the highest-grossing animated film released by a Hollywood studio, amassing a staggering $1.7 billion at the global box office. This monumental achievement cements the franchise’s status as a cultural juggernaut, driven by a historic performance in international markets—most notably in China, where it has become the most successful American animated release ever.
A New Alpha at the Box Office
The record-shattering run of “Zootopia 2” is a testament to the enduring chemistry between Ginnifer Goodwin’s Judy Hopps and Jason Bateman’s Nick Wilde. Directed by the returning powerhouse duo of Jared Bush and Byron Howard, the sequel expanded the world of Zootopia by introducing reptilian residents, led by Ke Huy Quan’s mysterious Gary De’Snake. This fresh dynamic, paired with the picture’s signature blend of social commentary and buddy cop humor, resonated with audiences of all ages, allowing the film to reach the $1 billion mark faster than any animated feature in history.
Industry analysts attribute much of this success to the title’s massive appeal in Asia, where it didn’t just compete with local blockbusters but dominated them. In China alone, the flick has brought in over $600 million, nearly doubling the domestic haul of several other major 2025 releases. While the Chinese blockbuster “Ne Zha 2” still holds the absolute global record for an animated film, “Zootopia 2” now stands as the undisputed king of Hollywood animation, surpassing previous titans like “The Lion King (2019)” and “Frozen II.”
Beyond the raw numbers, the movie has achieved Certified Fresh status with a 96% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, proving that Disney’s storytelling remains as potent as ever. The studio’s decision to lean into more complex themes—touching on the integration of new species and the evolution of Judy and Nick’s partnership—gave the sequel the emotional weight necessary to sustain its legs through the competitive holiday season and well into the new year.
As the film continues its theatrical run, the conversation has already shifted to the future of the franchise. With the original and the sequel now having combined for over $2.7 billion, the pressure for a third installment is at an all-time high. For now, Disney is taking a victory lap, celebrating a production that has redefined the financial ceiling for what a Hollywood animated feature can achieve.