Ginnifer Goodwin and Ke Huy Quan Talk Zootopia 2: Judy & Nick’s Future, Gary De Snake’s Symbolism, & Building the Perfect Mission Squad
We sat down with Ginnifer Goodwin (Judy Hopps) and Ke Huy Quan (Gary De Snake) for a conversation that was equal parts heartfelt, insightful, and unexpectedly hilarious. From relationship debates to emotional symbolism to assembling their dream action squad, both actors dove deep into what makes the sequel so special.
Table Of Content
Judy & Nick: Partners, Best Friends… or Something More?
The Judy–Nick relationship continues to be one of the most discussed topics among Zootopia fans, and Goodwin is well aware of the speculation.
“I mean, if you’re referencing inter-species child-rearing, I have no idea how that works,” she joked. “No idea what the rules of this universe are.”
But when it comes to their dynamic, she’s confident in what makes it work.
“As partners and BFFs, they’re a dream team. Not because they’re perfect, but because they’re really flawed — and they’re brave enough to grow together. Wherever their relationship goes, we’re going to love it regardless.”
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Gary De Snake & the Meaning Behind Shedding His Skin
One of the most emotional character arcs in Zootopia 2 belongs to Quan’s new character, Gary, who sheds his skin at pivotal moments.
Quan credits the creative team:
“I wish I could say I had a hand in that,” he said. “It’s really the genius minds of Jared Bush, Byron Howard, and our producer, Marino. I was just happy they offered me Gary — knowing he brings heart and positive messages to the story.”
For Quan, this was more than just a job.
“I grew up watching Disney animated movies. They shaped my formative years. To know this movie will influence the next generation’s childhood — that’s incredible.”
A High-Stakes Mission? Here’s Their Zootopia Squad
I gave them a fun scenario:
You’re your characters. You’re on a Tom Cruise-style high-stakes mission. Which two Zootopia characters do you bring with you?
Goodwin immediately knew her picks.
“I have to go with Nick and Nipples. I know it works — it’s a combo that’s proven.”
Quan laughed and added:
“That’s what this movie celebrates — the uniqueness of each character. We’re all puzzle pieces, and you can’t put a puzzle together if every piece is the same shape.”
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Zootopia’s Cultural Casting & Real-World Reflection
We talked about how each animal species is voiced by actors from different cultural backgrounds. Both actors loved seeing that representation woven into the world of Zootopia — a message the real world could use more of.
Ke Huy Quan Reflects on His Early X-Men Days
Quan also opened up about working as a stunt rigger on the very first X-Men film — before the MCU existed.
“That movie showed how we could have a modern take on the superhero genre,” he said. “I met a young Kevin Feige and a very young Hugh Jackman. And then years later, I got to join the MCU through Loki — it’s amazing how it all comes full circle.”
He grew up loving movies that let audiences escape for two hours.
“They entertain us, refresh us, energize us. That’s what I love.”
Ginnifer Goodwin and Ke Huy Quan reflect what Zootopia 2 delivers — heart, humor, growth, representation, and a world where every character brings something special to the table. It’s definitely worth the wait.
