Academy Award® winner Ke Huy Quan brings warmth, wit, and unexpected emotion to Zootopia 2 as Gary De’Snake, the first reptile character in Disney’s beloved animated world. In our exclusive interview, the Everything Everywhere All at Once star shares how he approached the film’s newest—and most surprising—character with compassion, humor, and depth.
The First Reptile in the Zootopia World
Gary De’Snake marks a historic first for Disney Animation — he’s the first reptile to ever exist in the world of Zootopia. Ke Huy Quan knew from day one that this character would redefine the franchise’s ecosystem. “Gary challenges everything you think you know about snakes,” he says, hinting that the character’s arc is as emotionally layered as it is entertaining.
The actor leaned into both heart and humor, ensuring Gary felt genuine in a city that has never before seen a cold-blooded creature walk—or slither—its streets.
Emotion Behind the Scales
Quan reveals that one of his biggest goals was giving Gary emotional warmth—something not typically associated with snakes. “I wanted audiences to feel for him,” he explains. That approach gives Gary an unexpected humanity that grounds the sequel’s themes of empathy and inclusion.
When asked how he related personally to the role, Quan connected it to his own journey of resilience and renewal in Hollywood. “Gary’s story mirrors the idea of being seen and valued,” he says, “something that means a lot to me.”
Disney Synergy & The Parks Question
In a fun moment, Quan teases whether Gary might slither his way into Disney Parks. With the Zootopia: Hot Pursuit ride already thrilling guests at Shanghai Disney Resort, fans are wondering if Gary could soon join that experience—or even inspire new attractions. Quan smiles and says, “I’d love to see that happen someday.”
The Family at the Core
At its heart, Zootopia 2 remains a story about family, purpose, and connection. Gary’s arrival forces Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde to reevaluate their partnership and navigate the balance between trust and instinct. Quan notes that Gary’s motivations are rooted in love and belonging, adding, “He’s not just a snake—he’s someone trying to find where he fits in.”
About “Zootopia 2”
In Zootopia 2, rookie cops Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin) and Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman) find themselves chasing a mysterious reptile whose arrival sends shockwaves through the animal metropolis. To solve the case, they must go undercover in unseen parts of the city, testing their partnership like never before.
The film also stars Fortune Feimster, Andy Samberg, Idris Elba, Patrick Warburton, Quinta Brunson, Nate Torrence, and Shakira (reprising her role as Gazelle). From Oscar®-winning filmmakers Jared Bush and Byron Howard and producer Yvett Merino, Zootopia 2 hits theaters November 26, 2025.
Watch More
Check out the full interview with Ke Huy Quan on The Culture Collective YouTube channel, and explore more of our Disney and animation coverage, including upcoming interviews with the Zootopia 2 cast and creative team.
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