Disney’s Zootopia Better Zoogether Brings Beloved Characters (and Big Lessons) to Families at Animal Kingdom

At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the colorful world of Zootopia comes to life in a way families have never seen before. Zootopia Better Zoogether, debuting inside the park’s iconic Tree of Life, invites guests to celebrate Zoogether Day with familiar friends and new faces from the hit film and its upcoming sequel.

It's the latest attraction to join the lineup of new rides and shows at Walt Disney World.

I just got back from a media preview where I chatted with talked with Ginnifer Goodwin (voice of Judy Hopps), Nate Torrence (voice of Benjamin Clawhauser), Jared Bush (co-writer and director of Zootopia and Zootopia 2), Chris Beatty (Creative Portfolio Executive at Walt Disney Imagineering), and Danny Handke (Senior Creative Director at Walt Disney Imagineering)!

Keep reading, and you'll get to hear from the folks behind some of the most loved characters of Zootopia. Filled with humor, music, and heartfelt moments, the attraction captures what families love most about Zootopia: characters who show that kindness, optimism, and individuality are worth celebrating.

Zootopia Characters in Better Zoogether

Let's get reacquainted with some of the standout characters in Zootopia.

Benjamin Clawhauser Takes Center Stage

Benjamin Clawhauser, the donut-loving cheetah voiced once again by Nate Torrence, cohosts the lively “Zoogether Day Live!” event. When the main host’s plans go hilariously sideways, Clawhauser steps up, proving that sometimes the best moments come from unexpected teamwork. His Audio-Animatronic is incredibly expressive, from twitching ears to gleeful paw gestures that mirror his animated charm.

“I love that Clawhauser just embraces who he is,” Torrence said. “He’s all enthusiasm and heart. He’s not afraid to be excited, to be himself, and I think that’s what makes him so lovable.”

Director Jared Bush described the creative process as a “dream come true” collaboration between Walt Disney Animation and Imagineering. “To continue the story of these characters here in this park—it’s a dream you never even thought you could dream,” he said. The Marshlands scene, adapted from Zootopia 2, shows Nick and Judy in a new adventure that makes clever use of water effects carried over from the theater’s previous show.

Torrence added another reflection that families will recognize immediately.

“I think Clawhauser reminds us it’s okay to be joyful and goofy,” he said. “Kids love that, but adults need it too. That’s what I hope people take away—being kind and enthusiastic never goes out of style.”

With colorful visuals, playful humor, and a message of community, Zootopia: Better Zoogether captures what families love most about Disney: storytelling with heart.

Judy Hopps' Journey

For actress Ginnifer Goodwin, returning to Judy Hopps was emotional. “I got the job when I was pregnant with my first child,” she recalled. “To return now—it feels like I’ve grown up with her.” Her words echo the show’s underlying theme of growth and perseverance, qualities that resonate with parents and kids alike.

She reflected on how deeply she connects with Judy’s endless optimism and courage.

“I love being Judy Hopps,” Goodwin said. “She’s endlessly hopeful and determined, and every time I step back into her voice, I remember what it feels like to believe that kindness and courage can change the world.”

That long connection gives Judy’s story an extra layer of meaning for families. Goodwin described Judy as a character who refuses to let fear or doubt hold her back—a message that continues to resonate with both children and adults. “Zootopia has always been about seeing the best in others,” she said, “and I think parents relate to that just as much as kids do.”

Familiar Faces and New Friends

While the attraction introduces new characters from Zootopia 2, fans will also enjoy seeing familiar ones like Frufru from Rodentia and Gazelle, both of whom add sparkle and personality to Better Together.

Frufru, the pint-sized fashionista, embodies friendship and loyalty. Gazelle, the pop star and activist from the first film, returns as a symbol of unity.

A Message for Families

Though filled with jokes and dazzling visuals, Zootopia Better Zoogether carries a deeper message about collaboration — one that resonates with families in everyday life. Chris Beatty, Creative Portfolio Executive at Walt Disney Imagineering, said that idea shaped every part of the project.

“Animal Kingdom is unique,” Beatty explained. “Its core values are nature, adventure, transformation, and the interconnectedness of all living things. We focused on that last one, interconnectedness, and said, ‘That’s what this show needs to be about.’”

And from the world of animation, Jared Bush, Chief Creative Officer at Walt Disney Animation Studios, echoed that sentiment.

“Collaborating with Imagineering has been one of the true joys,” Bush said. “To see ideas we’ve worked on for years come to life and become something guests can actually experience is absolutely spectacular.”

READ MORE: What Zootopia Better Zoogether Teaches Kids About Teamwork

Why Parents Will Love It Too

For parents, Zootopia: Better Together is a joyful reminder that big lessons often come wrapped in laughter and music. Each character, from Clawhauser’s optimism to Gazelle’s grace, offers families an easy entry point for conversations about empathy, confidence, and celebrating differences.

When kids see characters lifting each other up, they also see how teamwork and kindness can make the real world a little better.

Things are looking bright at Disney, with even more magical attractions coming soon!