Is Animal Park Cancelled? Ranbir Kapoor Shares Update on Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s Sequel
Ranbir Kapoor has clarified that Animal Park, the sequel to his 2023 blockbuster Animal, is not cancelled but has been delayed. In a recent interview, the actor revealed that director Sandeep Reddy Vanga is currently focused on another project, Spirit, which has pushed the sequel’s timeline.
The update comes amid speculation about the future of the franchise, with fans eager to know when the much-awaited sequel will begin production.
Speaking to Deadline, Ranbir confirmed that Animal Park is still in the planning stage. He said Vanga has only shared broad ideas so far.
“He has kind of flirted with what he really wants to do. He wants to make it in three parts. The second part is called Animal Park. The director is right now making another film. We should start that film in 2027,” Ranbir said.
He also revealed that he will play a dual role in the sequel, portraying both the protagonist and antagonist.
Released in 2023, Animal emerged as one of the biggest Hindi film hits, collecting over ₹900 crore worldwide. The film also recorded massive OTT viewership after its digital premiere, remaining among the most-streamed Indian films of the year.
Industry Reactions
Trade analysts believe the delay is strategic rather than problematic.
A senior distributor said, “Given the scale of Animal Park, the makers are taking time to develop the script properly. Rushing such a franchise would be risky.”
Film critic Rajeev Masand earlier noted that the Animal franchise has strong recall value, making it commercially viable even with a long gap.
Fans on social media have largely welcomed the update, expressing confidence in Vanga’s vision.
Background of the Project
Directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, Animal starred Ranbir Kapoor and Anil Kapoor and explored a complex father-son relationship through a violent narrative. Despite mixed reviews, the film’s box office performance established it as a major franchise.
Vanga had earlier hinted that the story was conceived as a multi-part saga, with Animal Park forming the second chapter.
What’s Next
Ranbir Kapoor is currently shooting for Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Love & War, slated for June 2026, and Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana: Part One, where he plays Lord Ram.
Meanwhile, Animal Park is expected to go on floors in 2027 after Vanga completes Spirit.
Our Final Thoughts
Ranbir Kapoor’s clarification brings relief to fans concerned about the future of Animal Park. Rather than signalling uncertainty, the delay reflects careful planning by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, who is known for taking time to shape his narratives.
With Animal crossing ₹900 crore globally and gaining strong traction on OTT, the franchise has already proven its commercial strength. This gives the makers the flexibility to prioritise quality over speed. Ranbir’s dual role also suggests that the sequel will expand the story in an ambitious manner.
At a time when sequels are often rushed to capitalise on success, Animal Park appears to be following a more measured path. This approach could help sustain audience interest in the long term.
Ranbir’s busy lineup further highlights his strong market position, balancing large-scale mythological films and auteur-driven projects. If executed well, Animal Park could become one of the most significant Hindi franchises of the decade.
For now, fans will have to wait, but the promise of a well-developed sequel makes the delay easier to accept.