Disney’s animation pipeline is always something to watch closely, and we just got some major news out of CinemaCon 2026. Walt Disney Animation Studios took the stage to share some big updates for their upcoming project called Hexed. If you’ve been following the rumors about what’s next for the studio that brought us classics like Frozen and Encanto, this is the update you’ve been waiting for.
The Stars Behind the Magic
The biggest reveal from the panel was the announcement of two heavy hitters joining the voice cast. Hailee Steinfeld and Rashida Jones are officially part of the Hexed family. We don’t have all the specifics on their characters yet, but bringing in talent of this caliber tells us Disney is going big for this 2026 release.
Hailee Steinfeld isn’t a stranger to the Disney family. We’ve seen her shine in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Kate Bishop, so seeing her transition into a major animated lead for Disney Animation is a natural and exciting move. Rashida Jones brings a unique energy and a wealth of comedic and dramatic experience to the table, which makes us wonder what kind of dynamic these two will have on screen together.
A Fresh Visual Identity
Along with the casting news, Disney also debuted the official logo for Hexed. A logo might seem like a small detail, but in the world of Disney Animation, it sets the whole mood. It gives us a glimpse into the aesthetic of the film. While the plot details are still being kept under wraps by the creative team, the logo reveal at CinemaCon 2026 is the first step in what will surely be a massive marketing journey leading up to the film’s debut. We’re already imagining how this logo might look on merchandise at Disney Springs in a few years!
Why This Matters for Fans
When Disney Animation announces a new project for 2026, it isn’t just about a movie. It’s about the potential for new characters to eventually find their way into the parks. Think about how quickly Mirabel or Asha arrived at Disney’s Hollywood Studios or Disneyland. While we’re still a bit away from the release date, these casting announcements are the foundation for the next big thing in the Disney canon.
It is also interesting to see the timing. By positioning Hexed for a 2026 release, Disney is solidifying a very strong slate for the next couple of years. This keeps the momentum going after the studio’s recent milestone anniversaries, proving that the Imagineering spirit of innovation extends to the big screen just as much as it does to the attractions we love.
Pro-Tips for Following the News
Since Hexed is still in production, here is how you can stay ahead of the curve:
- Keep an eye on the official Disney Animation social media channels. They usually drop teaser clips or first look art a few months after these big industry presentations.
- If you’re a pin collector, start looking for preview merchandise towards the end of 2025. Disney often releases coming soon items for their big animated features.
- Watch for soundtrack announcements. With cast members like Steinfeld and Jones, there is always a possibility of musical numbers that will become the next earworm for your drive to the parks.
Looking Ahead to 2026
We still have plenty of questions about the world of Hexed, but this update gives us a lot to be happy about. Hailee Steinfeld and Rashida Jones are fantastic choices to lead a new animated adventure. We’ll be watching closely as Disney reveals more about the story and characters in the coming months.
Disclaimer: This information is gathered from various online sources and news outlets. While we strive for accuracy, Disney plans and policies can change rapidly. We recommend double-checking official Disney sources for the most up-to-date information before making final travel plans.