The New Box Office Beast: How ‘Zootropolis 2’ Outpaced Every Animated Rival

In an unprecedented Hollywood stampede, Disney’s Zootropolis 2 has officially clawed its way to the top of the animation mountain. The blockbuster sequel has now grossed a staggering $1.7 billion globally, making it the highest-grossing animated film in Hollywood history. It narrowly but definitively dethroned the previous record-holder, Inside Out 2 ($1.69 billion), in a photo-finish that has stunned the industry.
This isn’t just an animation record—it’s a historic cinematic event. The film has burrowed its way into the elite top-10 highest-grossing films of all time, rubbing shoulders with titans like Avengers: Endgame and Titanic. Its success underscores a powerful truth: a story of unity and clever comedy, set in a world where anyone can be anything, has universal, record-shattering appeal.
“This milestone belongs first and foremost to the fans around the world whose enthusiasm made it possible,” stated Alan Bergman, co-chairman of Disney Entertainment. “Zootropolis 2 is an extraordinary achievement, and we’re grateful to everyone who helped bring it to life.”
The film’s sprint to the top was breathtakingly fast. It devoured the record for the biggest animated opening weekend over the US Thanksgiving holiday, earning $559.5 million in just five days. From there, it became the fastest animated Hollywood film ever to cross the $1 billion threshold, proving that audiences were not just interested, but ravenous for a return to the vibrant city of Zootropolis.
The sequel reunites the beloved duo of optimistic rabbit cop Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin) and sly fox-turned-PI Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman). This time, they’re on the trail of a mysterious new reptilian resident, the charmingly slippery Gary De’Snake, voiced by the scene-stealing Ke Huy Quan. The fresh dynamic, coupled with the original’s legacy of sharp social commentary and heart, created a perfect storm at the box office.
It’s worth noting that while Zootropolis 2 now reigns over Hollywood, the global animation crown is still held by China’s Ne Zha 2 ($2.2 billion), highlighting the massive and growing power of international markets. Yet, Disney’s latest feat demonstrates a seismic shift in the animated landscape, proving that a sequel—often a risky proposition—can not only meet expectations but wildly exceed them, becoming a genuine cultural phenomenon.
The message from the box office is clear: In a divided world, audiences are voting with their tickets for stories of partnership, humor, and hope. And for now, the mammals of Zootropolis are leading the pack.