Zootopia 2 Wins BAFTA, Jared Bush Champions Embracing Differences

'Zootopia' co-creator Jared Bush and producer Yvett Merino accepted the award while expressing their gratitude to the production, especially Walt Disney Animation Studios and their cast.

Jared Bush, while accepting the honour, got emotional and talked about the message which they wanted to spread through their storytelling in 'Zootopia 2'.

"We wanted to tell the story about differences and the fact that sometimes in this world right now, we are told that differences are bad or a problem. Our differences make us all fantastic. Our differences can make something really wonderful, and the world needs it right now," said Jared Bush in his acceptance speech at BAFTA 2026.

Directed by Jared Bush and Byron Howard, the film follows the story of a rabbit police officer (Ginnifer Goodwin) and con artist fox (Jason Bateman) as they come together once again to pursue a mysterious new reptilian resident (Ke Huy Quan).

Meanwhile, the British Academy Award was dominated by Leonardo DiCaprio starrer 'One Battle After Another', which won six awards on the night, including Best Director and Best Film.

'One Battle After Another' follows a rabble of ex-revolutionaries reuniting to rescue a comrade's daughter after an old enemy resurfaces. The ensemble cast includes Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn, Benicio Del Toro, Regina Hall, Teyana Taylor and breakout Chase Infiniti.

'One Battle After Another' went into the BAFTA Awards leading the pack with 14 nominations, just two short of the record set by "Gandhi."

The Award show streamed on Lionsgate Play. For the upcoming Oscar Awards, the film has 13 nominations, with hopes to add Best Actor and Director honours in its kitty.

- ANI