Disney announces release dates for lilo & stitch 2 and the incredibles 3

Disney shareholders received a double dose of animated news today, with the studio announcing theatrical release dates for Lilo & Stitch 2 (May 26, 2028) and Incredibles 3 (June 16, 2028). While details remained scarce, the announcements confirm long-anticipated sequels that promise to further expand beloved franchises.

New dates set for beloved sequels

The reveal followed the studio's annual shareholders meeting, where CEO Josh D'Amaro, recently appointed to replace Bob Iger, also touched on the enduring legacy of Pixar. He highlighted the global reach of Toy Story, emphasizing its presence across Disney platforms, theme parks, and consumer products.

Lilo & Stitch 2, initially announced in June 2025 following the financial success of the live-action remake which grossed over $1.03 billion worldwide, is being developed as a continuation of the classic story. A review of the 2025 film lauded it as a strong example of Disney’s remake strategy, effectively capturing the emotional core of the original.

Incredibles 3, unveiled at D23 2024, has been linked to director Peter Sohn, known for his work on Elemental, rather than Brad Bird, who helmed the first two films. Bird’s direction of The Incredibles 2, released in 2018, was widely praised for its script and ability to build on the family dynamic at the heart of the superhero adventure.

D'Amaro's comments underscored the significance of Pixar's impact on cinema. The studio's first CG-animated feature Toy Story, released 30 years ago, fundamentally altered the landscape of moviegoing. Its characters are now ubiquitous, woven into the fabric of popular culture.

The announcements offer a glimpse into Disney's continued commitment to its animated franchises, a strategy that has proven remarkably profitable. The studio is clearly betting on nostalgia and established brands to drive future success.