In a recent interview, actor Jason Bateman expressed surprise and curiosity over the fascination some fans have for his character, Nick Wilde, from Disney’s animated film franchise Zootopia. Bateman, who voices the charming fox, discussed this phenomenon during a segment with co-star Ginnifer Goodwin, where they explored the character’s unexpected appeal among audiences.
Bateman’s Reaction to Fan Discussions
During the interview, Goodwin pointed out that there exists a Reddit thread dedicated to debating whether Nick Wilde is “hot” or not. Bateman confirmed the existence of this discussion, revealing that his daughters had informed him about it. He remarked, “It’s very weird. I guess it’s flattering,” highlighting his mix of pride and confusion regarding the attention. The actor further inquired about the reasons behind this admiration, questioning if fans found the animated fox himself attractive or if it was more about the character’s qualities.
When Goodwin clarified that the allure seems to stem from a combination of Wilde’s “attitude, the voice, and the eyes,” Bateman smirked in agreement. This playful exchange underscores the unexpected nature of fan interpretations of animated characters, particularly those as complex as Nick Wilde.
Exploring the WildHopps Phenomenon
The conversation also touched on the popular fan ship known as “WildeHopps,” which imagines a romantic relationship between Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps, the rabbit character voiced by Goodwin. This unofficial pairing has garnered significant attention, leading to various fan-created narratives, including one controversially referred to as the “Zootopia abortion comic.” Goodwin humorously expressed her uncertainty about how to feel regarding the fan ship, stating, “It’s very confusing for me.”
Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps are not the first anthropomorphic characters to inspire fervent fan devotion, and they likely won’t be the last. This trend highlights how animated figures can transcend their fictional worlds, resonating deeply with audiences worldwide. The dialogue between Bateman and Goodwin reveals the complexities of character interpretation and the powerful connections fans form with animated narratives.
As the release of Zootopia 2 approaches, featuring both Bateman and Goodwin reprising their roles, it is clear that the fascination with these characters continues to evolve. Fans eagerly await the next chapter in the story of Nick and Judy, which promises to explore their relationship further while delivering the humor and heart the original film is known for.
With a voice cast that also includes notable talents such as Idris Elba and Quinta Brunson, Zootopia 2 aims to capture the same magic that made the first film an Oscar-winning success. As the anticipation builds, it remains to be seen how the themes of friendship and adventure will unfold in this new installment.
