What animated Disney film was reported in January 2026 to have surpassed "Frozen 2" as Walt Disney Animation Studios' highest-grossing film?

The animated film that reportedly surpassed "Frozen 2" as Walt Disney Animation Studios' highest-grossing film in January 2026 was "Zootopia 2 (Review)." This highly anticipated sequel built upon the tremendous success of the original "Zootopia," which captivated audiences worldwide with its clever storytelling, intricate world-building, and timely themes of prejudice and acceptance. The first film, released in 2016, was a critical and commercial triumph, earning over $1 billion globally and winning an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

"Frozen 2," released in 2019, held the record for Walt Disney Animation Studios' highest-grossing film for several years, achieving an impressive worldwide box office of approximately $1.453 billion. However, the strong global appeal and dedicated fanbase established by the first Zootopia (Review) set the stage for its sequel to potentially reach new heights. When "Zootopia 2" premiered, it was met with enthusiastic reviews and strong word-of-mouth, drawing in massive audiences eager to revisit the vibrant animal metropolis and its beloved characters, Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde.

The film's reported ascent to the top spot by early 2026 highlights the continued power of compelling narratives and beloved characters in the animated film landscape. Its success is a testament to the enduring quality of Walt Disney Animation Studios' productions and the global appetite for stories that entertain, inspire, and resonate across cultures. The achievement of "Zootopia 2" underscores how sequels to popular animated features can sometimes surpass the box office performance of their predecessors, especially when they deliver on the high expectations set by the original.