Disney's highly anticipated animated sequel, "Zootopia 2," has achieved an exceptional start in its global theatrical release, particularly driven by a record-breaking performance in China. The film, which continues the buddy cop narrative with its beloved anthropomorphic animal characters, has quickly accumulated an estimated $81.1 million globally, comprising $39.5 million from domestic markets and $41.6 million from international territories. This strong initial showing sets a promising trajectory for its ongoing worldwide rollout.

In China, "Zootopia 2" debuted with an astounding $34 million on its opening day, according to figures released by Disney. This monumental achievement establishes several new box office benchmarks for the territory, marking the highest opening day and highest single-day box office ever recorded for a U.S. animated film in China. Furthermore, it represents the strongest opening day for any U.S. title in China since May 2021 and stands as the 10th highest opening day of all time for a U.S. release in the country overall. The film's critical and audience reception in China has been equally stellar, with an impressive 9.7 rating on Maoyan, surpassing the original "Zootopia" (9.5), "Inside Out 2" (9.1), and "Ralph Breaks The Internet" (8.8).

Domestically, the film's opening day performance secured the second-highest Wednesday before Thanksgiving of all time, positioned only behind "Moana 2" ($57.9 million). It also ranks as the third-highest domestic opening day for any Walt Disney Animation Studios animated title, following "Moana 2" and "Frozen 2" ($42.2 million). Audience enthusiasm is evident across various platforms, with "Zootopia 2" earning a robust 95% approval from Rotten Tomatoes audiences, an "A" CinemaScore, and 4.5 out of 5 stars from PostTrak, reflecting widespread positive reception.

"Zootopia 2" has also dominated other international markets where it premiered. In Korea, the film garnered $1.7 million on its opening day, marking it as the fifth-highest animated opening day of all time and the second-highest opening day among all Walt Disney Animation Studios films, trailing only "Frozen 2." Korean social scores were strong, with 9.30 on Naver and 98% on CGV. Across Europe, the sequel achieved the highest MPA animated opening day of 2025 in key markets: France recorded $2.4 million, Germany $700,000, and Italy $600,000, underscoring its broad appeal.

The film initiated its international rollout on Wednesday in 17 markets, including France, Germany, Italy, China, and Korea, demonstrating a strategic release pattern. "Zootopia 2" is set to continue its expansion throughout the current weekend, aiming to be available in approximately 93% of the international cinematic landscape by Sunday, with Japan scheduled for release the following weekend, further extending its global reach.