D23 – The official Disney fan club – also known as Disney D23* or simply D23, is the official fan club for the Walt Disney company. The D23 biennial announcement extravaganza started on Friday 9 August and finished on Sunday.
D23 is described by the Mouse House as ”the ultimate Disney Fan event” where consumers can shop, see exhibits and panels hosted by celebrities and Disney staff. Most importantly it is where Disney shows new trailers and shares film announcements.
And here are some of those announcements …
Snow White
The live action film of the 1934 Disney classic showed its first teaser trailer which leans heavily into the original in look and tone. The film opens on 21 March 2025.
Star Wars Skeleton Crew
While the classic Star Wars is as popular as ever and The Mandalorian was a huge hit, some of the other shows have been a mixed bag with the most recent, The Acolyte, faring poorly. However, Skeleton Crew, though maybe not looking like classic Star Wars, is likely to be a big hit with younger viewers.
Lilo & Stitch
Another live action remake, Lilo & Stitch hits theatres in summer 2025. The announcement only had a short teaser, but everyone’s favourite blue alien has retained all his look and character from the animated original. Given how popular Stitch merchandise has been this looks set to bolster sales even further.
Mufasa
The live action prequel to The Lion King follows Mufasa and Scar (known as Taka) and recounts the early days of the future king of Pride Rock.
Moana 2
After the smash hit of the first film, Moana 2 sees Moana and Maui (voiced by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson) reuniting for a new adventure to be released this November.
Other announcements
While there was no trailer for Frozen 3 there was a brief look at concept art from the film. Originally set to release in 2026 it is now delayed to 2027.
The third film in the Avatar franchise had it its title revealed – ‘Avatar Fire and Ash.’ No footage was shown, but the film premiers on 1 December 2025.
Toy Story Five had a very short teaser, but it was announced that Finding Nemo and Wall-E’s director Andrew Stanton is to direct.
The third instalment of The Incredibles was announced with original director Brad Bird to direct, no release date as yet.
Not much is known about the the Mandalorian And Grogu film and very little was revealed at D23. A small amount of footage was shown but it didn’t give much away. Lucasfilm will be hoping that its return to theatres will be a hit, Mandalorian & Grogu premieres on 22 May 2026.
* “D23” refers to D for Disney and 23 for 1923, which is the year Walt Disney founded the company.
