Disney has officially confirmed the much-anticipated sequel to the animated hit Coco, with plans for the film to be released in 2029, twelve years after the original. This news was shared by Disney CEO Bob Iger during the company's annual shareholder meeting on March 20, 2025.
Coco quickly became a beloved classic after its release in 2017, grossing over $800 million at the worldwide box office and winning the coveted Oscar for Best Animated Feature in 2018. The film intricately portrays the traditions of the Mexican holiday, the Day of the Dead, as it follows the story of Miguel, a young boy with dreams of becoming a musician.
In unveiling the sequel, Iger expressed enthusiasm about the film’s direction, stating, "Although the movie is still in its early stages, we know it will be packed with humor, heart, and adventure." This exciting new project will see the return of Oscar Lee Unkrich, the director of the first installment, alongside his co-director Adrián Molina, while Oscar Mark Nielsen will produce the film, ensuring that the creative vision behind the original will be upheld.
The announcement of Coco 2 sparked considerable buzz among fans and on social media, with many speculating about possible plotlines for the sequel. While specific details about the plot remain under wraps, theories suggest that Miguel could further pursue his passion for music or might return to the mystical Land of the Dead to discover more about his heritage.
Considering the success of the first film, which captured not only the hearts of its audience but also the rich Mexican culture, there are expectations that the sequel might delve deeper into the themes presented. Many are eager to see how the film might expand the understanding of death and remembrance by integrating perspectives from other cultures, potentially enriching the narrative, something which the original masterfully encapsulated.
During the shareholder meeting, Iger teased that fans can anticipate more updates soon, telling the audience, "We can’t wait to share more details soon." This statement leaves fans excited about what lies ahead for Coco’s enduring story.
Notably, Coco marked a transformative moment for Disney and Pixar, showcasing a culturally rich narrative that resonated globally, leading to its esteemed accolades. As one of the few animated films that highlighted the significance of the Day of the Dead, it became a bridge for viewers to connect with traditions not widely recognized outside of Mexico. Its success sets a high bar for the sequel, as fans hope for a continuation that respects the original’s spirit while bringing fresh adventures.
As speculation about the sequel heightens, many fans have taken to online platforms to share ideas and fan theories, ranging from the return of past characters like Hector and Mamá Coco to new adventures exploring other realms of the afterlife. These insights illustrate how deeply the original film impacted the audience, cultivating an eager anticipation for Coco 2’s eventual release.
Interestingly, Coco is not the only franchise making a comeback as Pixar is also developing other sequels including the fifth installment of Toy Story, the third installment of The Incredibles, and a follow-up to Elio. This resurgence of beloved stories reflects Pixar's commitment to exploring and expanding their most cherished narratives, providing fans with a series of sequels that promise to nostalgically captivate audiences.
As we look ahead to the release of Coco 2, the excitement is palpable, and expectations are high. With its talented team and the promise of laughter, warmth, and adventure, the sequel aims not only to honor the legacy of its predecessor but also to carve a new path that resonates across generations. Fans of Coco can rest assured that their patience will surely be rewarded come 2029 when they can once again bask in the vibrancy of Miguel's world.
