‘Hexed’: Hailee Steinfeld and Rashida Jones to Star in Disney’s Mother-Daughter Animated Adventure

Why It Matters

“Hexed” represents Disney’s strategic bet to revive original animated hits and capture holiday family audiences, directly challenging blockbuster franchises and boosting box‑office margins.

Key Takeaways

• Hailee Steinfeld voices teen witch Billie in Disney's original 'Hexed'
• Rashida Jones plays uptight mother, adding mother‑daughter dynamic
• Directed by veteran story artist Jose Trinidad, debuting as feature director
• Targeted for Thanksgiving 2026 to compete with superhero blockbusters
• Aims to surpass $255 million box office of Disney's 'Wish'

Pulse Analysis

Disney’s animation slate has been a roller‑coaster since the pandemic, with Pixar’s “Elemental” and “Hoppers” finding modest success while Disney Animation’s own “Strange World” and “Wish” stumbled at the box office. Executives have responded by doubling down on original concepts, betting that fresh stories can recapture the magic that once made Disney a dominant force in family entertainment. “Hexed,” slated for a Thanksgiving 2026 release, is the latest effort to restore that momentum, leveraging a proven release window that historically drives high family attendance.

The premise of “Hexed” blends modern teen angst with classic fantasy, following Billie, a seemingly ordinary teenager who discovers she’s a witch and is thrust into a magical realm called Hexe alongside her career‑focused mother. Casting Hailee Steinfeld and Rashida Jones adds star power and a built‑in mother‑daughter dynamic that could resonate with multigenerational audiences. Behind the scenes, veteran story artist Jose Trinidad makes her feature‑directing debut, while co‑director Jason Hand brings experience from the $1 billion‑grossing “Moana 2.” This creative team aims to deliver a visually rich, humor‑laden adventure that differentiates itself from the high‑stakes superhero fare dominating the summer.

If “Hexed” can exceed the $255 million global earnings of “Wish,” Disney could reaffirm the viability of original animated properties in a market saturated with sequels and franchises. A successful holiday launch would not only boost Disney’s bottom line but also signal to investors that the studio’s strategy of pairing fresh storytelling with strategic release timing remains sound. Moreover, a strong performance could encourage further investment in original concepts, diversifying Disney’s portfolio and strengthening its position as the premier destination for family‑centric entertainment.