UPDATE: Jason Bateman, the voice of Nick Wilde in Disney’s beloved franchise Zootopia, has spoken out about the surprising fan fascination with his animated character’s appeal, calling it “weird.” In a recent interview, Bateman addressed fans’ obsession with Nick Wilde during a segment on a popular show.
Just announced by Goodwin, Bateman’s co-star, the revelation that a Reddit thread exists debating Nick’s attractiveness caught him off guard. “My daughters told me this. It’s very weird. I guess it’s flattering,” Bateman remarked, expressing both confusion and pride over the unexpected fan reactions.
Why this matters: The phenomenon highlights the growing trend of fans developing deep emotional connections with animated characters, blurring the lines between fiction and reality. The appeal of Nick Wilde, characterized by his sly attitude and charm, has sparked intense discussion online.
During the interview, Bateman asked, “Where did it come from though? Are they saying the fox itself is handsome?” Goodwin added to the conversation, explaining that fans attribute Nick’s allure to “the attitude, the voice and the eyes.” This playful banter reveals the humorous side of their engagement with fans.
Interestingly, the discussion also veered into fan creations, particularly the infamous “WildeHopps” ship, which imagines a romantic relationship between Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps. Goodwin, while amused, admitted, “It’s very confusing for me,” showcasing the complex relationship between creators and their characters.
As the buzz around Zootopia 2 builds, which reunites Bateman and Goodwin in their roles, the dynamic between Nick and Judy continues to captivate audiences. The film is anticipated to explore their relationship further, amidst a stellar voice cast that includes Idris Elba, Quinta Brunson, and Ke Huy Quan.
This latest development raises questions about the impact of fandom on character representation and the interpretations that arise from animated narratives. While Bateman finds the discussions amusing, they also reflect a deeper cultural commentary on how animated characters resonate with viewers.
The conversation surrounding Nick Wilde’s appeal is part of a broader trend where animated figures become icons, sparking discussions on social media platforms and fan forums. As Zootopia 2 gears up for its release, this dialogue is likely to intensify.
Fans are encouraged to share their thoughts on the character dynamics and the evolving narrative, as excitement builds for the film’s premiere. Stay tuned for more updates on this intriguing topic!
