Illumination reveals what’s next after Mario’s billion-dollar success

Illumination reveals its next big projects after Mario’s billion-dollar success, including sequels and exciting plans

Illumination CEO Chris Meledandri has shared major updates on the studio’s upcoming projects, including future Mario movies, Sing 3, The Secret Life of Pets 3, an animated Barbie movie and more, during an interview with Collider.

In the interview, Meledandri discussed the future of Illumination after the success of franchises like Despicable Me, Minions and The Super Mario Bros. Movie. The studio head confirmed that both Sing 3 and The Secret Life of Pets 3 are currently in active development, with teams working to expand the popular animated franchises.

Meledandri explained that the upcoming Sing sequel will honour what fans loved about the previous films while introducing new ideas. He also revealed that the team spent additional time developing The Secret Life of Pets 3 to ensure the story feels meaningful rather than being made simply to continue the franchise.

The Illumination CEO also addressed the future of Nintendo movies following the billion-dollar success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie and The Super Mario Galaxy Movie. While he did not reveal a release date for another Mario film, he said the partnership between Illumination and Nintendo remains strong, with more possibilities being explored.

Fans also received an update on the planned animated Barbie movie, which Illumination is developing with Mattel. Meledandri said the project will aim to create something different from the successful live-action Barbie movie while building its own identity.

The studio’s upcoming slate includes Minions & Monsters, which continues the Despicable Me universe, along with future original animated projects. Meledandri said Illumination is focused on balancing successful franchises with new original stories.

With major franchises continuing to grow, Illumination appears set for a busy future in animated movies, with more announcements expected soon.