Incredibles 3: Everything We Know About the Next Pixar Sequel
Incredibles 3 is officially in development at Pixar with a planned release around 2028. That’s the short, clear answer.
What We Know So Far
Official Confirmation and Early Development
Pixar announced Incredibles 3 at the D23 Expo on August 9, 2024. Pete Docter confirmed Brad Bird, who directed the first two films, would return in some capacity for the sequel . At that time, production was identified as early stage, with no release date yet set .
Director, Screenplay, and Team Shifts
In June 2025, Pixar revealed a change: Peter Sohn, known for Elemental and The Good Dinosaur, will direct the film, while Brad Bird remains on board as the screenwriter and executive producer . This marks a shift, giving fresh creative energy while retaining Bird’s narrative vision.
Production Timeline and Voice Recording
According to recent updates, voice recording and production are slated to begin around March 2026 . That aligns with Pixar’s typical four-to-six-year animation production cycle, starting from the 2024 announcement and pointing to a 2028 release.
Release Window
At Destination D23 in August 2025, Pixar announced Incredibles 3 is expected to arrive in theatres around 2028, possibly later, alongside Coco 2 .
Behind the Scenes: Creative and Strategic Context
Why the Long Gap?
Pixar tends to invest deeply in development. After a 14-year wait between the first two films, the third is unfolding more deliberately. Brad Bird’s commitment to other projects like Ray Gunn influenced the timeline . Giving the reins to Sohn lets Pixar push forward, while Bird guides from behind the scenes.
Cast Expectations and Character Arcs
Though not formally confirmed, it’s safe to expect the familiar voices—Craig T. Nelson (Mr. Incredible), Holly Hunter (Elastigirl), Samuel L. Jackson (Frozone), and Sarah Vowell (Violet)—to return . Jackson has even talked about exploring Frozone’s backstory, opening new narrative possibilities .
Why It Matters
Franchise Value
The Incredibles brand is both critically acclaimed and commercially valuable. The original holds a high Rotten Tomatoes rating and box office of around $630 million, while Incredibles 2 surpassed $1.2 billion globally . With Pixar leaning heavily into sequels—Toy Story 5, Coco 2, Moana 2, and Frozen 3 are in the pipeline too—it’s a pivotal moment for the studio’s strategy .
Animation Industry Landscape
Recent original films like Elio underperformed at the box office, underscoring the safety and profitability of established franchises. That trend likely fuels the greenlight for Incredibles 3 .
What to Expect Next
- Voice Work Begins: March 2026 likely sees the beginning of recording.
- Production Phase: Following that, animation, editing, scoring—likely through 2027.
- Marketing Kickoff: Trailers, teasers, and buzz likely ramp up in late 2027 or early 2028.
- Release Window: A theatrical release sometime in 2028, though exact timing is TBD.
“Bringing back Brad Bird in a creative leadership role ensures continuity, even while passing the directorial torch remains pivotal for maintaining Pixar’s vision,” — hypothetical studio insider.
Conclusion
Incredibles 3 is officially happening. Announced in August 2024, now directed by Peter Sohn with Brad Bird writing and producing. Production kicks off in early 2026, and the theatrical debut is expected around 2028. The original cast is likely to return, and this sequel joins a lineup of strategic franchise builds for Pixar’s future.
FAQs
When was Incredibles 3 announced?
It was officially confirmed at Disney’s D23 Expo on August 9, 2024.
Who’s directing Incredibles 3?
Peter Sohn will direct. Brad Bird moves into screenwriting and executive production roles.
When does production start?
Voice recording and broader production are scheduled to begin around March 2026.
What’s the expected release date?
Pixar expects to release the film around 2028, pending final scheduling.
Will the original cast return?
Most likely. Craig T. Nelson, Holly Hunter, Samuel L. Jackson, and Sarah Vowell are expected to reprise their roles.
Why the long gap between films?
Pixar typically takes time to develop high-quality sequels. Bird’s involvement in other projects delayed the timeline, and animation cycles are multi-year efforts.
