Ke Huy Quan Joins Zootopia 2 as the Unexpectedly Charming Gary De’Snake

Oscar winner Ke Huy Quan is lending his voice to the highly anticipated animated sequel. He will play Gary De’Snake, a friendly pit viper. The film Zootopia 2 is scheduled for release on November 26, 2025. This casting continues Quan’s remarkable career resurgence.

The character is described as goofy and optimistic. He plays a central role in the movie’s new mystery. His arrival challenges the city’s long-standing fears.

The Unconventional Casting That Landed a Dream Role

Ke Huy Quan did not get the role through a normal audition. An animator discovered his voice in a unique way. According to Entertainment Weekly, the artist saw Quan on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.

The animator used Quan’s voice as a temporary test track. They edited it over footage of the snake character. Directors Jared Bush and Byron Howard saw the test and loved it. They immediately knew Quan was the perfect fit for Gary.

Meet Gary De’Snake: Zootopia’s Most Misunderstood Newcomer

Gary De’Snake is a pit viper who appears after Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde find a mysterious snake skin. His entrance causes panic among the mammals of Zootopia. Everyone assumes he is dangerous because he is venomous.

The plot revolves around a century-old mystery. No reptile has entered Zootopia for one hundred years. Gary is not a villain, but a hopeful character. He simply wants to reunite his family and prove reptiles belong.

Quan connected deeply with Gary’s personality. He was encouraged to bring his own energetic and kind spirit to the role. This marks another significant family-friendly project for the acclaimed actor since his Oscar win.

A Pinch-Me Moment in the Recording Studio

For Quan, working on a Disney film was a childhood dream come true. He recalled watching Disney cartoons every weekend as a child. Stepping into the recording booth felt surreal and magical.

The end of the recording process was bittersweet. Videos online showed Quan jumping for joy after his final session. He expressed sadness that he would no longer get to play the character. The experience was profoundly special for him.

Thought you’d like to know-

Who does Ke Huy Quan play in Zootopia 2?

He voices Gary De’Snake, a friendly and optimistic pit viper. The character is central to the film’s new mystery involving Zootopia’s reptile population.

When is Zootopia 2 being released?

Disney has set a theatrical release date of November 26, 2025. This is just over two years after the sequel was officially announced.

Are the original voice actors returning?

Yes, Ginnifer Goodwin and Jason Bateman are returning as Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde. Shakira is also expected to return as the pop star Gazelle.

What is the plot of Zootopia 2?

The plot involves a 100-year mystery about why no reptiles have lived in Zootopia. The discovery of a snake skin sends Judy and Nick on a new investigation.

Why was Ke Huy Quan cast as Gary De’Snake?

He was cast after an animator used his voice from a late-night talk show as a test. The directors loved his energetic and friendly tone for the character.