This image released by Walt Disney Animation Studios shows a scene from “Moana 2,” expected in theaters November 2024. (Walt Disney Animation Studios via AP)
At Disney's D23 convention, the company dazzled fans with a spectacular showcase of upcoming movies and TV shows, including a highly anticipated “Moana 2.” The event, held at the Honda Center, featured sneak peeks, live performances, and surprise appearances from stars such as Dwayne Johnson, Zoe Saldaña, and Jude Law.
The excitement kicked off with a standing ovation for Disney CEO Bob Iger. Addressing the crowd, Iger emphasized the importance of entertainment in today’s world and introduced previews from popular franchises like “Avatar,” “Toy Story,” and “The Incredibles.”
One of the evening's highlights was a live performance by Auli’i Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson, who reprised their roles from “Moana.” The duo thrilled the audience with a vibrant performance featuring drummers and dancers dressed in costumes inspired by the animated film. “Moana 2,” set for release on November 27, will see both actors return to their beloved roles. Johnson, who was joined by his young daughters in the audience, expressed how special working on the film has been for him. Disney also released the first full trailer for the movie, showcasing new and familiar characters, including Moana’s new little sister and her pet pig Pua.
In addition, Johnson revealed his involvement in a live-action adaptation of “Monster Jam,” though no updates were provided on the live-action “Moana” currently in development.
The Star Wars segment offered a glimpse into upcoming projects. Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni presented a teaser for the new Star Wars film, “The Mandalorian & Grogu,” slated for May 2026. The film, which has just begun filming, promises a fresh journey for its iconic characters. Jude Law also discussed “Star Wars: Skeleton Crew,” a new series arriving on Disney+ on December 3, which Law described as a coming-of-age story.
On the Pixar front, Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter announced the development of a third “Incredibles” movie. Additionally, Andrew Stanton, director of the first two “Toy Story” films, is returning for “Toy Story 5,” which will tackle the theme of toys versus technology. This film is expected to hit theaters in the summer of 2026.
Jennifer Lee, Walt Disney Animation Studios’ chief creative officer, shared concept art from “Frozen III,” depicting Anna, Elsa, and Olaf facing an ominous presence. The film is set for release in 2027. James Cameron, along with actors Zoe Saldaña and Sam Worthington, revealed the title of the third “Avatar” film, “Avatar: Fire and Ash,” offering a glimpse of new elements from the world of Pandora, though the film is still in early production.
Fans were also given a preview of “Zootopia 2,” set for November 2025, with Ginnifer Goodwin announcing that Ke Huy Quan will join the cast as a new character.
Marvel President Kevin Feige followed up on recent Comic-Con announcements, with Ryan Reynolds sharing a thank-you message for the success of “Deadpool & Wolverine.” Ryan Coogler introduced the upcoming series “Ironheart,” which will follow Riri Williams, a character first seen in “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.” Feige also teased the “Fantastic Four” film, showcasing a brief video of the cast in costume and hinting at a retro 1960s style for the movie.
Musical moments were a key feature of the event, with Lin-Manuel Miranda performing a new song from the live-action prequel “Mufasa: The Lion King.” Additionally, Kathryn Hahn performed a new track from her Marvel series “Agatha All Along.”
In a special announcement, Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan revealed the title for the “Freaky Friday” sequel, “Freakier Friday.” Curtis, who will be honored as a Disney Legend, reflected on the nostalgia of revisiting the 2003 film.
Pixar also announced a new film, “Hoppers,” featuring Bobby Moynihan and Jon Hamm, and provided a first look at “Elio,” featuring Yonas Kibreab, Saldaña, America Ferrera, and Jameela Jamil. “Elio” will hit theaters on June 13, 2025. Pixar is also expanding into series with “Dream Productions,” set between “Inside Out” and its sequel, and “Win or Lose,” the studio’s first long-form series, both coming to Disney+ in 2025.
