BREAKING NEWS: Netflix has officially announced a sequel to the critically acclaimed animated film The Mitchells vs. the Machines, but it will move forward without co-director Jeff Rowe. This urgent update comes just days after Rowe confirmed his commitment to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles franchise has sidelined him from the project.
The much-loved original film, released in April 2021, showcased a Michigan family navigating a chaotic road trip amidst a global AI takeover. Featuring a star-studded ensemble including Abbi Jacobson and Maya Rudolph, the film garnered a stunning 97% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and became Netflix’s most-watched animated release at the time.
As Netflix gears up for the sequel, excitement builds despite Rowe’s absence. In a recent interview with ScreenRant, he stated, “I’m all Turtles all the time now. They’re my sons. They’re my bosses. They are my family.” His dedication to the TMNT franchise, including the upcoming Mutant Mayhem sequel set for September 2027, has left no room for him to participate in the Mitchells project.
Despite Rowe’s departure, the sequel is in good hands. Guillermo Martinez, the original film’s head of story, will make his directorial debut alongside JP Sans, ensuring continuity in creative vision. The writing team features the talented Molyneux sisters known for their work on Bob’s Burgers, while original producers including Mike Rianda, Phil Lord, and Chris Miller will remain involved.
Netflix is keen to maintain its momentum in animated storytelling, especially following the success of KPop Demon Hunters, which recently surpassed The Mitchells vs. the Machines as Netflix’s biggest animated hit. With a sequel to KPop Demon Hunters already confirmed for a 2029 release, Netflix is clearly committed to expanding its animated slate.
Animation projects typically span several years, requiring dedicated focus. Rowe’s extensive work with Paramount Animation has made it impractical for him to juggle both the TMNT franchise and the Mitchells sequel. However, the strong team assembled for the sequel promises to deliver a quality follow-up that fans will eagerly anticipate.
This news is still developing, and fans are encouraged to stay tuned for updates. As the creative team gears up to bring back the Mitchells for another adventure, the legacy of the first film continues to resonate, leaving audiences excited for what’s next.
