July 1, 2016 - 15:42 AMT
Disney announces “Wreck-It Ralph” sequel release date

Disney has announced a sequel to “Wreck-It Ralph”, set for a release on March 9, 2018, TheWrap reports.

The first film, which was released in 2012, was made for $165 million and grossed $471.2 million worldwide. Starring John C. Reilly and Sarah Silverman, the animated film set inside the video-game world has a “fresh” rating of 87 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.

The sequel was announced this morning on Facebook Live by the filmmakers and Reilly, and Disney’s Animation Studios confirmed the news.

“Zootopia” director Rich Moore and producer Clark Spencer are re-teaming for the follow-up. Phil Johnson, writer for the 2012 film, will join Moore as director and writer on the project.

Reilly and Silverman will return as Ralph and Vanellope von Schweetz, respectively.

“From the moment we started working on the first ‘Wreck-It Ralph,’ we knew there were so many possibilities with these characters,” Moore said in a statement. “This time, Ralph’s wrecking wreaks havoc on the Web — as only he can do. Characters we loved in the first film are back and we are ecstatic to be working with them — and the actors who voice them — once again.”

“Ralph is a character very near and dear to my heart,” added Reilly. “I’m really looking forward to playing the big lug again. Making the first ‘Wreck-It Ralph’ was one of the most special experiences I’ve ever had and I’m really looking forward to bringing him back to life. So many kids I’ve met all over the world are excited to see him again, too. They tell me all the time!”

“Wreck-It Ralph” was nominated for an Oscar and Golden Globe for best animated feature, and won the PGA Award for outstanding producer of an animated theatrical motion picture. The film also won five Annie Awards, including best director, cast and screenplay.

Disney also announced that “Gigantic,” previously stated for March 9, 2018, will now be released on November 21, 2018.