‘Leap!’ Sequel Gets the Green Light as French Animation Studio Expands Hit Into Full Franchise

The world of animated dance is about to get bigger. French animation studio Good Hero has officially greenlit a sequel to Leap!, the 2016 animated film that captured audiences worldwide under the title Ballerina in most markets.

The news came this week during the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, where Good Hero revealed ambitious plans that go well beyond just a second movie. The Paris-based company is also developing an animated television series based on the property, signaling serious long-term investment in the franchise.

The original film struck a chord with viewers everywhere. It told the story of Félicie, an orphan determined to become a ballerina in 19th-century Paris, and her journey of determination and self-discovery. The movie grossed more than $100 million globally, buoyed by voice work from Elle Fanning, Dane DeHaan and Carly Rae Jepsen in the English version.

Details about the sequel remain scarce for now—the studio hasn’t revealed plot points or when audiences can expect to see Ballerina 2. But the expectation is that it will carry forward the themes that made the original resonate: ambition, friendship and the power of perseverance.

Good Hero’s expansion strategy reflects a broader industry trend. Studios are increasingly betting big on animated franchises, building multi-platform universes that go beyond theatrical releases. The studio’s dual approach—a feature film and TV series—aims to draw in new younger audiences while keeping longtime fans engaged.

Nearly a decade after its debut, Leap! continues to hold appeal, and the studio clearly believes there’s much more mileage left in the property.