Bobby Moynihan, celebrated for his time on ‘Saturday Night Live’, recently graced the red carpet at the premiere of his latest animated feature, ‘Hoppers’. The event took place on February 23, 2026, in Los Angeles, setting the stage for the upcoming Disney Pixar release, which is slated to hit theatres on March 6. The film boasts an impressive cast, including John Hamm, Dave Franco, and Piper Curda, drawing considerable anticipation from fans and industry insiders alike.
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During a candid conversation with PEOPLE, Moynihan reflected on his nostalgic connection to a classic Disney film that shaped his college years. He revealed that he was particularly enamoured with ‘The Lion King’, sharing how he would watch the film daily during his university days. “I have a very distinct memory, but it was a little late in life. The Lion King in college,” he admitted. This sentiment is a testament to the film’s enduring appeal, even among adults.
Interestingly, Moynihan’s relentless viewership of ‘The Lion King’ coincided with a crucial period in his academic life. As he put it, “I woke up every day for a year in college and watched The Lion King. I was a little too old. I probably should have been going to class.” Despite this playful admission, it hints at the deep impact the film had on him—not just as entertainment but as a source of inspiration.
Having graduated from the University of Connecticut’s School of Fine Arts in 1999, Moynihan’s affinity for ‘The Lion King’ reflects the powerful storytelling that Disney is renowned for. The film’s poignant themes of growth, responsibility, and the emotional resonance of its music left a lasting impression on the aspiring entertainer. “It’s got a beautiful message,” he highlighted, illustrating how meaningful narratives can shape one’s values and creative path.
Moynihan’s admiration for ‘The Lion King’ extended beyond its cinematic release. He expressed a desire to delve into theatre, specifically expressing enthusiasm to portray the beloved warthog, Pumbaa, in the Broadway adaptation. “I would kill to do that [Broadway show],” he enthused. His statement not only underscores his love for the character but also showcases his commitment to the art of storytelling in various forms.
As Moynihan steps into the role of King George in ‘Hoppers’, there is a sense that the passion he cultivated in college has matured into a flourishing voice acting career. Over the years, he has become a familiar figure in animation, contributing his distinctive comedic flair to a myriad of projects including ‘The Secret Life of Pets’, ‘We Bare Bears’, and ‘Nature Cat’. His trajectory in the industry serves as a reminder of how early influences can evolve into professional pursuits.
‘Hoppers’, the film at the heart of Moynihan’s latest venture, centres on an innovative premise. It tells the story of a young woman named Mabel, who harnesses cutting-edge technology to transfer her consciousness into a robotic beaver. This remarkable transformation allows her to engage directly with the animal kingdom, promoting a narrative rich with themes of connection and exploration. With Moynihan’s involvement as King George, audiences can expect a blend of humour and heart in this animated experience.
As the release date approaches, the excitement surrounding ‘Hoppers’ continues to build. Moynihan’s journey from a college student enamoured with a Disney classic to a prominent voice in animation exemplifies the profound connection that storytelling can create across generations. It will be intriguing to see how his character unfolds in this new project and how his love for animated storytelling influences his performance.
With ‘Hoppers’ awaiting its theatre debut on March 6, fans are eager to witness the latest addition to Pixar’s illustrious catalogue. Given Moynihan’s rich history in the entertainment industry and his enduring passion for animation, it promises to be a film that resonates with both young and old. As it stands, Moynihan’s journey remains a testament to the magic of animation and the heartfelt stories that continue to inspire new audiences.