On February 23 and 24, 2026, Hollywood lit up with one of the biggest entertainment events of the week, the Los Angeles premiere of Hoppers, the highly anticipated new animated film from Pixar Animation Studios. The event not only drew A‑list celebrities to the red carpet but also generated significant buzz across the entertainment industry as audiences and critics alike look ahead to what may be one of Pixar’s most original releases in recent years.
A Star‑Packed Premiere in Los Angeles
The premiere, held at the iconic El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood, was a center of activity for film and pop culture fans on Monday, February 23. Celebrities from television, movies, and fashion gathered to celebrate the upcoming release of Hoppers, which tells a whimsical and adventurous story about human consciousness being transferred into robotic animals, a premise that combines sci‑fi creativity with family‑friendly humor.
Among the stars spotted on the red carpet were Mad Men alum Jon Hamm, who drew attention for his playful engagement with fans and a frog mascot on the carpet, Dave Franco alongside his wife Alison Brie, and a host of other prominent figures in Hollywood. The premiere also featured reunions, including cast members from beloved television series, and strong fashion moments that brought style bloggers and entertainment journalists out in force.
The event was not limited to the big names walking the carpet, entertainment outlets and fans shared highlights of the premiere in real time, turning the weekend into a social media moment for fashion, film, and celebrity culture alike.
Inside Hoppers: What Audiences Can Expect
Hoppers is set to hit theaters nationwide in the United States on March 6, 2026, following its Los Angeles premiere. Directed by Daniel Chong and featuring a star‑studded voice cast including Jon Hamm, Piper Curda, Bobby Moynihan, Kathy Najimy, Meryl Streep, and more, the film centers on a young animal lover who uses groundbreaking technology to explore the animal kingdom from a new perspective.
Pixar, known for its imaginative storytelling and family appeal, has branded Hoppers as a blend of action, comedy, and heartfelt adventure. Early critical reactions, based on previews and industry screenings, have praised the film for its humor and originality, calling it one of the studio’s funniest and most inventive projects in recent memory.
The film’s unique premise and high‑profile cast position Hoppers to be a major cinematic moment in early 2026. With a narrative that combines futuristic sci‑fi elements with universal themes about connection, empathy, and environmental awareness, it’s expected to appeal to both young audiences and adults who appreciate Pixar’s layered storytelling style.
Celebrity Reactions and Industry Impact
In addition to the red carpet buzz, individual stars shared insights from the event itself. Jon Hamm, for example, spoke about his experiences at the premiere and reflected on his own viral fame, saying he appreciated being associated with positive cultural moments, an indication of how actors view their roles in today’s media landscape.
Dave Franco, another cast member, commented on his evolving perspective on his work as he approaches his 40s, emphasizing the importance of fun and creative freedom in his career choices. These personal reflections added a human interest angle to the premiere’s coverage, reinforcing Hoppers as not just a film release but a celebratory moment in Hollywood’s awards and awards‑season calendar.
Looking Ahead: Release and Reception
As Hoppers premieres across the United States in early March, industry analysts and fans alike will be watching box office numbers, critic reviews, and audience reactions closely. Pixar’s track record, with films such as Inside Out 2 and Toy Story 5 on the horizon in 2026, sets high expectations. If Hoppers fulfills its early promise, it could emerge as one of the studio’s most cherished original films in years.
Overall, the Hoppers premiere on February 23–24 marked a significant moment in entertainment news, bringing together a mix of celebrity glamour, film innovation, and cultural anticipation that exemplifies Hollywood’s ongoing influence on global pop culture.