Disney and Pixar Confirm 'Coco 2' in Development

Disney and Pixar have officially announced the development of "Coco 2," a sequel to the 2017 animated film "Coco," which captivated audiences worldwide with its vibrant storytelling and cultural depth. The announcement was made by Disney CEO Bob Iger during the company's annual shareholder meeting on March 20, 2025. Iger expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, "While the film is just in the initial stages, we know it will be full of humor, heart, and adventure."

The original "Coco" introduced viewers to Miguel, a 12-year-old aspiring musician who embarks on a journey to the Land of the Dead to uncover his family's history. The film was lauded for its authentic representation of Mexican culture, featuring an almost entirely Latino cast, and grossed over $814 million globally. It garnered numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song ("Remember Me"), a Golden Globe, and a BAFTA.

For the sequel, the original creative team is set to return. Director Lee Unkrich, co-director and screenwriter Adrian Molina, and producer Mark Nielsen, known for their collaborative success on the first film, will reunite to bring "Coco 2" to life. This continuity in leadership aims to preserve the essence and integrity of the original narrative while exploring new dimensions of the story.

As of now, specific plot details for "Coco 2" remain under wraps, and no official release date has been confirmed. However, industry reports suggest that the film is slated for a theatrical release in 2029. 

This timeline indicates that the project is in its early development stages, allowing the creative team ample time to craft a story that resonates with audiences and honors the legacy of the original film.

The announcement of "Coco 2" comes amidst a broader trend at Pixar of revisiting successful franchises. Alongside "Coco 2," the studio has confirmed the development of other sequels, including "Toy Story 5" and "Incredibles 3," reflecting a strategic emphasis on expanding beloved narratives. 

Fans of "Coco" have expressed excitement about the sequel, eager to see how the story will evolve and what new musical elements will be introduced. The original film's soundtrack, particularly the song "Remember Me," played a pivotal role in its emotional impact and success. While specific details about the sequel's music have not been disclosed, it is anticipated that music will continue to be integral to the storytelling.

In addition to the film, Disney has been expanding the "Coco" universe through other ventures. Notably, a "Coco"-themed restaurant, Plaza de Coco, recently opened on the Disney Cruise Line's ship, Disney Treasure, offering fans an immersive dining experience inspired by the film. 

Such endeavors indicate Disney's commitment to keeping the "Coco" legacy alive across various platforms.

As development progresses, more information about "Coco 2" is expected to be released, including plot details, casting announcements, and musical contributions. Given the success of the original film and the return of its creative masterminds, expectations are high for the sequel to deliver a compelling and culturally rich narrative that resonates with audiences worldwide.

In summary, the development of "Coco 2" signifies Disney and Pixar's dedication to storytelling that celebrates cultural heritage and familial bonds. With the original creative team at the helm, the sequel promises to continue the legacy of its predecessor, offering humor, heart, and adventure to both new and returning audiences.

Sources:

• https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/showbiz/showbizabroad/940022/film-coco-2-in-development-at-disney-and-pixar-studios/story/
• https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/coco-2-pixar/
• https://www.wdwmagic.com/wdwmagic-plus/walt-disney-animation-studios/news/20mar2025-coco-2-in-development-at-pixar-with-original-creative-team-returning.htm
• https://apnews.com/article/coco-sequel-disney-pixar-a2c4f6625f65d8956c5849013618649c 
• https://people.com/coco-2-in-the-works-disney-and-pixar-sequel-11700644
• https://www.sfchronicle.com/entertainment/article/coco-2-announcement-pixar-20232828.php