A major Hollywood studio has officially announced the release date for one of the most anticipated animated films of the decade — the Hello Kitty movie. The beloved Japanese character is set to make her first-ever Hollywood debut on July 21, 2028, in a film expected to delight fans across generations.
A Beloved Character Steps Onto the Global Stage
The upcoming film promises to bring Hello Kitty and her friends into a vibrant cinematic adventure. The project has been in the works for years, with fans eagerly waiting to see how Hollywood will reimagine the world-famous character who first appeared in 1974 under Japan’s Sanrio brand.
Hello Kitty’s global influence spans merchandise, clothing collaborations, video games, theme parks, and cafes. Her journey from a small coin purse character to a worldwide cultural symbol makes her transition to Hollywood both nostalgic and groundbreaking.
The Team Behind the Film
The movie will be directed by Leo Matsuda, known for his work on Zootopia, Wreck-It Ralph, and the acclaimed short Inner Workings. The latest script draft has been written by Dana Fox, whose writing credits include several successful family comedies.
The project is being produced by Beau Flynn, who has spent nearly a decade securing the rights to bring Hello Kitty to Hollywood. Shelby Thomas will oversee the project for FlynnPictureCo.
What Fans Can Expect
While plot details remain under wraps, the film is expected to be a heartwarming, colorful adventure for viewers of all ages. It will explore themes of friendship, positivity, and imagination — all central to Hello Kitty’s charm.
Interestingly, it remains unclear whether Hello Kitty, officially known as Kitty White, will speak in the movie. The character has traditionally remained silent in most of her animated appearances, which has sparked curiosity about how Hollywood will portray her personality on screen.
Possibility of Familiar Faces
Fans may also get to see other beloved Sanrio characters such as Gudetama, My Melody, and Little Twin Stars in the movie. Their inclusion would expand the film’s universe, appealing to both long-time enthusiasts and new audiences discovering the franchise.
A Long-Awaited Milestone
Originally announced in 2019, the Hello Kitty movie marks the first time Sanrio has granted film rights to the character. With Warner Bros. Pictures Animation and New Line Cinema collaborating on the project, the film’s development represents a significant milestone for both Hello Kitty’s legacy and cross-cultural storytelling in animation.
As the countdown to 2028 begins, anticipation continues to build among fans eager to see how Hollywood will honor and reinvent this timeless global icon.
