Warner Bros. has announced a July 21, 2028, release date for the upcoming Hello Kitty animated feature film. The project, developed by Warner Bros. Animation and New Line Cinema, marks the character's first Hollywood theatrical debut. Directed by Leo Matsuda with a script by Dana Fox, the story follows Hello Kitty and her friends on a cinematic adventure.
Announcement Details
Warner Bros. unveiled the release date for the 'Hello Kitty' movie via an Instagram post on October 30, 2025, stating, “Hello Hollywood 🎀🌴🎬 #HelloKittyMovie is coming to theaters July 21, 2028!” A studio statement added, “The film marks Hello Kitty’s Hollywood theatrical debut as Hello Kitty and her friends embark on a cinematic adventure sure to delight audiences of all ages.”
Development Background
New Line Cinema acquired the film rights from Sanrio in 2019, marking the first time the company licensed its iconic character for a feature film. The project was first announced in March 2021. Initially described as an animated/live-action hybrid, recent updates position it as an animated feature. The story remains under wraps, though it may include other Sanrio characters like Gudetama, My Melody, and Little Twin Stars.
Creative Team
Leo Matsuda, known for directing the short 'Inner Workings' and contributing to 'Zootopia' and 'Wreck-It Ralph,' is directing. Dana Fox, who wrote 'Wicked,' penned the most recent script draft. Hello Kitty, created by Japan's Sanrio in 1974, has become a global merchandising phenomenon with theme parks, cafés, video games, and collaborations spanning decades.
This release continues Warner Bros.' push into family-oriented animation, building on the character's enduring appeal across generations.