Full Breakdown
Ballerina 2 and TV Series Announced: Expanding a Global Animated Franchise
6/23/2026, 1:03:56 PM
Core Announcement – Sequel and Series Development
Paris-based production company Good Hero revealed at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival that a sequel, Ballerina 2, is entering production this month, coinciding with the 10th anniversary of the original 2016 feature. The company also confirmed the parallel development of an animated television series. Both projects are part of Good Hero’s strategy to extend the “Ballerina” universe across film, television and digital platforms, including YouTube. Veteran French studio Gaumont will again serve as the French and international theatrical distributor, with a global theatrical release slated for late 2029.
Background – Success of the Original Film
The 2016 animated family film Ballerina (released in the United States as *Leap!*) follows a 19-year-old orphan who flees a rural home to pursue a dream of dancing at the Paris Grand Opera House in 1884. Voiced in English by Elle Fanning and Dane DeHaan (and in French by Camille Cottin and Malik Bentalha), the movie was sold to more than 100 territories and earned $120 million worldwide (reported also as £90 million). Its narrative of female empowerment and perseverance resonated with global audiences, establishing a durable franchise foundation.
Key Players – Studios and Creative Leads
- Good Hero – Paris-based production house; co-founders Gregory Ouanhon (producer) and Laurent Zeitoun (screenwriter-director).
- Laurent Zeitoun – Writer of the original screenplay, director of the sequel, and co-producer.
- Gregory Ouanhon – Co-producer of the sequel.
- Gaumont – French studio handling French and international distribution; Alexis Cassanet, EVP International Distribution & Co-Productions, oversees the partnership.
- Andrew Burrell – Award-winning British writer (known for *Disenchantment*, *EastEnders*, *Sasha and Milo*, *Danger Mouse*) appointed series writer for the TV project.
Timeline – Milestones from Announcement to Release
| Date | Milestone |
|---|---|
| June 2026 | Announcement at Annecy; production of *Ballerina 2* begins. |
| June 2026 | 10th anniversary of the original film’s release. |
| 2026-2028 | Ongoing development of the animated TV series. |
| Late 2029 | Planned worldwide theatrical release of *Ballerina 2*. |
Data & Statistics – Box-Office and Reach
- Original film box-office: $120 million (? £90 million).
- Distribution footprint: 100+ countries.
- No budget figures disclosed for the sequel or series.
- Good Hero’s existing catalogue includes the animated features Fireheart (U.S. Hulu release) and the upcoming Wings of Freedom (presented at Cannes Market).
Official Statements & Responses
Good Hero’s co-founders emphasized that the sequel will build on the original’s “universal values of overcoming challenges, hard work and commitment, the power of artistic expression, and creating positive change.” Gaumont’s executive highlighted the franchise’s “timeless DNA” and its capacity to “delight multiple generations of families,” reaffirming confidence in the partnership for the upcoming release.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Ballerina’s aspirational story of female empowerment has continued to resonate with new audiences over the last decade and is even more relevant today,” — Laurent Zeitoun, Good Hero co-founder.
- “The film embodies what it means to follow your dreams — the universal values of overcoming challenges, hard work and commitment, the power of artistic expression, and creating positive change in the world by being true to yourself.” — Gregory Ouanhon, Good Hero co-founder.
- “We are very happy to continue the Ballerina adventure alongside the experienced and highly acclaimed producers Gregory Ouanhon and Laurent Zeitoun,” — Alexis Cassanet, EVP International Distribution & Co-Productions, Gaumont.
- “Ballerina remains one of the most successful independent animated films at the worldwide box office, demonstrating its strength and universal themes.” — Alexis Cassanet, Gaumont.
- “The DNA of the franchise is timeless and has the power to delight multiple generations of families,” he said.” — Alexis Cassanet, Gaumont.
What’s Next – Production Outlook and Distribution Plans
Production on *Ballerina 2* proceeds through 2026-2028, with animation pipelines coordinated by Good Hero’s Paris studio. Andrew Burrell is drafting scripts for the companion TV series, targeting a post-film launch on streaming platforms and YouTube. Gaumont will coordinate a staggered international rollout for the 2029 theatrical debut, while promotional campaigns are expected to leverage the original’s legacy of female-empowerment storytelling.
