Thousands of fans gathered in Anaheim, California, as Disney officially kicked off D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event. The multi-day gathering serves as a massive celebration of the company’s expansive portfolio, bringing together enthusiasts from around the globe to experience immersive exhibits, exclusive programming, and high-profile announcements regarding the future of the studio’s film, television, and streaming projects.
The festivities began with the Disney Entertainment Showcase at the Honda Center, hosted by Ginnifer Goodwin and Ke Huy Quan. The event featured a series of major reveals, including surprise celebrity appearances and exclusive footage from upcoming titles. Disney CEO Josh D’Amaro opened the showcase by emphasizing the unique connection the company maintains with its global audience, noting that the brand reaches billions of people through its parks, cruise ships, and entertainment offerings.
This year’s event is particularly notable for the breadth of content on display. By bringing together teams from Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and Disney+, the studio is reinforcing its commitment to its diverse storytelling legacy. For fans, the event acts as a central hub where the past, present, and future of the company’s most iconic franchises collide, providing a rare look at the creative processes behind their favorite stories.
Major Film Announcements
The showcase provided significant updates on several highly anticipated projects. Among the highlights was the announcement of a sequel to the 2025 live-action hit, Lilo & Stitch. The new film, titled Lilo & Stitch 2, is set to begin production in Hawaiʻi later this year. Chris Sanders, who directed the original 2002 animated classic and the 2025 live-action film, will return to direct the sequel. The project is currently scheduled for a theatrical release on May 26, 2028.
Additionally, the studio debuted a teaser trailer and poster for The Bluey Movie. Based on the popular animated series, the film follows the Heeler family on an action-packed day that promises to change everything for the characters. The CG-animated feature is slated to arrive in theaters on August 6, 2027. The presentation also included a special look at an upcoming film from The Simpsons franchise, which is currently expected to hit theaters on September 3, 2027.
Celebrating Disney Legends
Beyond the slate of new projects, the event serves as a platform to honor the individuals who have shaped the company’s history. During the showcase, it was highlighted that Academy Award winner Anne Hathaway will be honored as a Disney Legend. Hathaway, who rose to prominence within the studio through The Princess Diaries, reflected on her long-standing relationship with the company and the impact of her work across various projects.
As the event continues in Anaheim, fans can expect further insights into the studio’s upcoming slate. With a mix of legacy sequels and new adaptations, the company is clearly focused on maintaining its momentum across all platforms.
Source: Disney
