A new Pixar project is taking shape with a familiar character as its lead.
The animation giant has spent recent years adjusting its output as audience habits shift. Streaming has changed how animated films are discovered, and theatrical performance has become less predictable for original titles.
That has pushed Pixar toward familiar territory. Known characters and established worlds now play a larger role in the studio’s pipeline, often carrying less risk than launching entirely new concepts.
Recent results have reinforced that direction. Inside Out 2 (2024) became a major global hit, briefly becoming the highest-grossing animated film of all time and showing the continued strength of returning to existing stories with built-in audiences.
Other projects reflect the same approach. Toy Story 5 arrives this summer, extending a franchise that has remained central to Pixar’s identity for nearly three decades.
New Short Set in Finding Nemo World
According to Deadline, Pixar is developing a short film set within the world of Finding Nemo (2003), though details remain tightly under wraps.
Ellen DeGeneres will return to voice Dory, the forgetful blue tang fish who became one of Pixar’s most recognizable characters. The still-untitled short is in early production, with plot details and additional creative attachments yet to be announced.
Release plans have also not been confirmed. With development only just beginning, it remains unclear whether the short will debut theatrically, on streaming, or as part of a wider Pixar release.
The casting marks a return for DeGeneres following her 2024 Netflix special, Ellen DeGeneres: For Your Approval. She has since stepped back from the entertainment industry and relocated to the British countryside.
Her return follows several years of controversy tied to The Ellen DeGeneres Show. In 2020, former employees accused the production of fostering a toxic workplace, including allegations of bullying and misconduct by senior staff.
Those allegations led to internal investigations and a public apology from DeGeneres. The show ended in 2022 after nearly two decades on air.
Pixar Continues To Revisit Finding Nemo Franchise
Revisiting Finding Nemo is consistent with how Pixar has treated some of its most successful properties.
Released in 2003, the film became both a critical and commercial success, winning the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and reaching a global audience.
Dory emerged as one of the film’s most popular characters. Her role expanded significantly with Finding Dory (2016), which focused on her backstory and introduced new characters and locations.
That sequel also performed strongly at the box office, reinforcing the long-term value of the franchise.
The Finding Nemo world has remained active beyond film. Disney has incorporated the property into its parks, including attractions like Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage and The Seas with Nemo & Friends.
Additional stage shows and experiences have kept the characters visible across multiple markets.
The new short adds another entry to that expanding footprint. More details are expected as production continues.
Are you excited for a new Finding Nemo project?
