The avian heroes of the “Angry Birds” universe are set to fly into cinemas sooner than anticipated. Paramount Pictures has strategically moved up the release date for “The Angry Birds Movie 3” to a prime holiday slot in 2026, a move amplified by the surprising addition of YouTube phenomenon MrBeast to its already star-studded voice cast. This development signals a clear intent to capture a broader audience, merging established animated franchise appeal with modern digital celebrity influence.
A Strategic Flight Path: Earlier Than Expected
Originally slated for January 29, 2027, the third installment in the “Angry Birds” cinematic saga will now debut on December 23, 2026. This shift of over a month positions the film squarely within the lucrative Christmas holiday season, a period historically favored by family-friendly blockbusters. While the January slot had its merits, the December pre-Christmas window offers a significantly larger audience pool, eager for entertainment during school breaks and festive celebrations. This tactical maneuver by Paramount suggests a high level of confidence in the film`s appeal and its potential to be a seasonal box office contender.
MrBeast Joins the Flock: A Digital Crossover Event
Perhaps the most notable new development is the inclusion of Jimmy Donaldson, globally recognized as MrBeast, and Webby Award winner Salish Matter, in the voice cast. MrBeast, with his colossal online following built on elaborate challenges and philanthropic endeavors, represents a formidable addition. While the specifics of his role, or that of Salish Matter, remain undisclosed, his presence alone promises to generate significant buzz, potentially drawing millions of his online subscribers to theaters. This strategic casting choice is a clear nod to capturing a younger, digitally native audience, extending the film`s reach far beyond traditional cinema-goers. It’s an interesting fusion of old-school animation with new-age internet celebrity, a gamble that could pay substantial dividends.
Familiar Voices and Fresh Talent
Fans will be pleased to know that many beloved voices are returning to reprise their roles. Jason Sudeikis is back as the perpetually grumpy Red, alongside Josh Gad as the hyperactive Chuck, Rachel Bloom as the intelligent Silver, Anthony Padilla as the boomerang-beaked Hal, Ian Hecox as the explosive Bubbles, and Danny McBride as the volatile Bomb.
In addition to the returning core, the film boasts a wealth of new talent, further enriching its ensemble. The newly announced cast members include Emma Myers, Keke Palmer, Tim Robinson, Lily James, Marcello Hernandez, Walker Scobell, and Sam Richardson. This blend of seasoned comedic actors and rising stars ensures a dynamic and engaging vocal performance throughout the film.
Behind the Camera: Vision and Legacy
Directing “The Angry Birds Movie 3” is John Rice, an industry veteran with an impressive resume that includes work on animated fan favorites such as “Beavis and Butt-Head Do the Universe,” “Rick and Morty,” “Bob’s Burgers,” and “The Simpsons Ride.” His extensive experience in crafting engaging animated narratives suggests the film is in capable hands.
The movie is set to be produced by Rovio, the Finnish company behind the original massively successful mobile game, and Sega. This collaboration underscores a commitment to maintaining the core spirit of the franchise while expanding its cinematic universe. The Angry Birds saga began its journey in 2009 with the inaugural game, evolving into a global phenomenon that spans merchandise, games, and now, a robust film series. The franchise`s enduring popularity was recently highlighted with the release of the “Angry Birds Bounce” game on Apple Arcade earlier this year.
Anticipating the Next Chapter
With its accelerated release date and the intriguing addition of MrBeast, “The Angry Birds Movie 3” is shaping up to be a significant event for both animation enthusiasts and the broader digital audience. The strategic timing, combined with a strong cast and experienced creative team, positions the film to be a compelling offering during the 2026 holiday season. Audiences can look forward to another adventure with their favorite feathered characters, perhaps with an unexpected twist courtesy of YouTube`s biggest star.
Ellis Thorne 
Gareth Fenton