November 21, 2025

 

Rio 3 (2026): Blu and Jewel Take Flight Again in a Colorful New Adventure

LOS ANGELES — Blue Sky Studios, revived under a new creative partnership with 20th Century Studios Animation, is returning to one of its most beloved worlds with Rio 3, set for release in 2026. The vibrant, musical franchise that charmed audiences with its humor, heart, and Brazilian spirit is now spreading its wings for a brand-new chapter filled with color, rhythm, and high-flying adventure.

A New Journey Begins in the Heart of Brazil

Set several years after the events of Rio 2, the upcoming film follows Blu, Jewel, and their three energetic chicks as they adjust to life split between the jungle and the bustling city of Rio de Janeiro. But their peaceful days are disrupted when an unexpected message reaches them from the Pantanal wetlands—one of the richest and most threatened ecosystems in the world.

A rare species believed to be extinct has resurfaced, and Jewel’s instincts lead the family into a new, breathtaking environment teeming with wildlife, mystery, and danger. Their journey soon turns into a mission to protect the Pantanal from a powerful illegal wildlife-trafficking ring.

Producers describe the film as “a celebration of Brazil’s natural beauty and a message about protecting the world’s most fragile habitats.”

Returning Voices With New Additions

The cast features a mix of returning favorites and exciting newcomers:

• Jesse Eisenberg as Blu

• Anne Hathaway as Jewel

• Jamie Foxx and will.i.am reprising their roles as Nico and Pedro

• Leslie Mann as Linda

• Rodrigo Santoro as Tulio

Joining the cast are:

• Stephanie Beatriz as Arara, a fierce and charismatic Pantanal macaw

• Gael García Bernal as Pacho, a capybara guide with comedic flair

• Wagner Moura as the film’s new villain, a ruthless wildlife smuggler

Music That Moves the World

Known for its dazzling musical identity, Rio 3 brings back composer John Powell and partners him with renowned Brazilian artists, blending samba, funk carioca, forró, and modern Brazilian pop.

Early reports hint at:

• A carnival-themed opening number

• A fiery jungle dance sequence led by Pedro and Nico

• Traditional Pantanal-inspired folk rhythms

• A new emotional ballad sung by Anne Hathaway’s Jewel

Music remains the heartbeat of the franchise, and the third film raises the bar even higher.

A Visual Feast of Wildlife and Wonder

Visually, Rio 3 expands the world far beyond the cityscapes of the first two films. The Pantanal—with its vast wetlands, glowing sunsets, floating forests, and rich biodiversity—offers a fresh palette for animators and a cinematic world rarely explored in big-budget animation.

Expect vivid new character designs, species-accurate animals, vast water sequences, and sweeping aerial shots that recreate the wonder of flight.

Themes of Family, Environment, and Courage

As with previous films, Rio 3 balances comedy and heart, offering deeper themes for audiences of all ages:

• the importance of protecting endangered species

• balancing instinct versus comfort

• learning to trust oneself—and one’s family

• celebrating the culture and ecosystems of Brazil

Blu once again faces his deepest fears, while Jewel confronts old memories and new responsibilities. Their chicks, now older, take on a more central role, forming the emotional core of the film.

Set for a Summer 2026 Release

Industry analysts project that Rio 3 will be one of the biggest animated releases of Summer 2026, reintroducing the franchise to a new generation while thrilling long-time fans.

The Spirit of Brazil Takes Flight Once More

With infectious music, lovable characters, and a breathtaking new setting, Rio 3 (2026) promises to be a joyous, high-energy return to a world brimming with rhythm and heart.