In a new interview about “Once Upon a Studio,” Disney producer Brad Simonsen said “Zootopia 2” will be just as “good or better” than the original film.

Simonsen was an associate producer on “Zootopia,” which was released by Walt Disney Animation Studios in 2016. Disney CEO Bob Iger announced a “Zootopia” sequel, as well as more sequels for “Frozen” and “Toy Story,” in February 2023.

Simonsen recently produced the “Once Upon a Studio” short honoring 100 years of Walt Disney Animation Studios. In a conversation about the short with Russ Milheim of The Direct, Simonsen also spoke about the “Zootopia” sequel.

We’re all super excited about it. And it’s a world that I was part of the first movie, and it was one of the most amazing experiences in my life, to be honest. And I know that this next one’s going to take it to another level and be, as you know, as good or better than the first. So we’re super excited about that project.

Bradford Simonsen

The first “Zootopia” film was well-received. It is certified fresh on Rotten Tomatoes, with a critic score of 98% and an audience score of 92%. The critics consensus reads, “The brilliantly well-rounded Zootopia offers a thoughtful, inclusive message that’s as rich and timely as its sumptuously state-of-the-art animation — all while remaining fast and funny enough to keep younger viewers entertained.”

In 2022, Disney released “Zootopia+” on Disney+. This anthology mini-series told small stories that were set during the events of the film.

“Zootopia” sparked the creation of a Zootopia land at Shanghai Disney Resort, which is scheduled to open later this year. The Disney Treasure cruise ship will have a “Zootopia”-inspired sweets shop and a “Zootopia” show is in development to replace “It’s Tough to be a Bug” at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Are you excited about “Zootopia 2”? Let us know in the comments.

For the latest Disney Parks news and info, follow WDW News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.