Coco 2 Coming Soon: Pixar Announces Release Date for Highly Anticipated Sequel

Remember the goosebumps you felt during Miguel's journey through the Land of the Dead? That magical feeling is returning—Pixar has officially confirmed that Coco 2 is in development, with a theatrical release planned for 2029.

Disney CEO Bob Iger made the announcement during the company's annual shareholders meeting, giving fans the first concrete details about the long-rumored sequel. While the project is still in its early stages, Iger's enthusiasm was palpable:

"Though the film is currently in the initial development phase, we're confident it will deliver the humor, emotion, and adventure audiences expect. We're excited to share more details soon."

What makes this news even more thrilling? The creative dream team behind the original masterpiece is reuniting. Oscar-winning director Lee Unkrich (Coco, Toy Story 3) and co-director Adrian Molina (Coco) are returning to guide the project, while Mark Nielsen—known for producing hits like Toy Story 4 and Inside Out 2—will handle production duties.

What Made the Original Coco a Cultural Phenomenon?

When Coco premiered in 2017, it wasn't just another animated film—it was a cultural milestone. The story followed 12-year-old Miguel, a boy with musical aspirations despite his family's generations-old ban on music. His determination led him on an unexpected journey to the Land of the Dead, where he uncovered the true story of his family's history.

What elevated Coco beyond typical animated fare?

Critical acclaim: The film captured two Academy Awards (Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song for "Remember Me"), a Golden Globe for Best Animated Film, and a BAFTA for Best Animated Film

Box office success: Coco resonated with audiences worldwide, generating an impressive $814.6 million in global ticket sales

Cultural impact: The film introduced millions of viewers to the rich traditions of Mexico's Día de los Muertos celebrations

Pixar's Sequel Strategy Continues to Pay Dividends

Have you noticed Pixar's recent focus on sequels? The studio has found tremendous success with continuation stories, particularly with franchises that connected deeply with audiences the first time around.

Inside Out 2, released last summer, shattered records with $1.66 billion in worldwide box office—becoming the highest-grossing animated film of all time. Incredibles 2 similarly connected with audiences, proving that thoughtful sequels can expand beloved universes rather than simply cash in on nostalgia.

![Suggested image: Colorful artwork showing the Land of the Dead from Coco with "2029" incorporated into the design]

Beyond the Screen: Coco's Expanding Universe

The Coco universe isn't just growing on screen—it's expanding into the physical world as well. Disney has plans for a Coco-themed attraction at Disney California Adventure, with construction scheduled to begin in 2026.

This raises an intriguing question: Will the theme park experience open in coordination with the film's 2029 release date, creating a synchronized celebration of Miguel's world? Disney hasn't confirmed the timing, but the possibility has fans speculating about an immersive rollout strategy.

What Might Coco 2 Explore?

Fans of the original film will remember that the story concluded with the passing of family matriarch Coco. This poignant ending has sparked theories about what the sequel might explore:

A new Day of the Dead adventure featuring familiar characters in different circumstances

The continuation of Miguel's musical journey and its impact on future generations

Deeper exploration of the Land of the Dead's mythology and rules

Introduction of new family members and their connections to the original story

The first film successfully introduced global audiences to Mexico's Día de los Muertos traditions. How might the sequel build upon this cultural foundation while telling a fresh story?

The Animation Landscape of 2029

By the time Coco 2 arrives in theaters, the animation landscape will have evolved significantly. What technological advances might Pixar incorporate into the sequel? How might the studio push visual storytelling even further with tools not yet available today?

While we have several years to wait, the confirmation of Coco 2 gives fans something meaningful to anticipate. The return to Miguel's world—with its vibrant colors, rich music, and profound messages about family and remembrance—promises to be worth the wait.