Jason Bateman, the voice behind the charming fox Nick Wilde in Disney’s animated franchise Zootopia, recently expressed his bewilderment regarding the intense admiration some fans have for his character. During a promotional segment, Bateman discussed the phenomenon of fans debating Nick Wilde’s appeal, particularly on platforms like Reddit.
Bateman’s Reaction to Fan Obsession
In a light-hearted exchange with co-star Ginnifer Goodwin, who voices Judy Hopps, Bateman addressed a question about the “thirst” for Nick Wilde among certain viewers. Goodwin pointed out that there is an ongoing discussion among fans about whether Nick is attractive, to which Bateman responded, “This is true. My daughters told me this. It’s very weird. I guess it’s flattering.” His reaction combined both surprise and a hint of pride, reflecting a common sentiment among voice actors who find their animated characters garnering unexpected fan affection.
As the conversation progressed, Bateman humorously questioned the basis of Nick’s allure. “Where did it come from though? I guess, are they saying the fox itself is handsome?” he asked, while Goodwin provided insight into the fandom’s perspective. She explained that Nick’s appeal stems from his “attitude, the voice, and the eyes,” which Bateman acknowledged with a smirk.
The Popularity of WildeHopps
The duo also touched on the popular fan ship known as WildeHopps, which imagines a romantic relationship between Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps, despite it not being canonically established in the films. Goodwin admitted her uncertainty regarding the ship’s popularity, stating, “It’s very confusing for me,” which elicited laughter from both Bateman and the audience. This light-hearted banter highlights the often whimsical nature of fandom, where characters can take on lives of their own beyond their original narratives.
Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps are not alone in this phenomenon. Animated characters have long been subject to fan interpretations that sometimes venture into unexpected territory. Zootopia itself, while featuring themes of friendship and social justice, has sparked various discussions and fan creations that reflect a wide range of interpretations and emotions.
This ongoing dialogue surrounding animated characters like Nick Wilde illustrates how deeply audiences connect with fictional personas. As Bateman and Goodwin prepare to reprise their roles in the upcoming sequel, fans eagerly anticipate how their characters will evolve and how the story will continue to resonate with audiences.
The sequel, Zootopia 2, is expected to bring back the beloved humor and heart of the original film, with Bateman and Goodwin returning to voice their iconic characters once again. As excitement builds for the release, discussions about the characters’ dynamics and the fan culture surrounding them are likely to continue flourishing.
Ultimately, the allure of Nick Wilde serves as a reminder of the powerful connections formed through storytelling, showcasing how animated characters can inspire affection, debate, and even fan-driven narratives in the digital age.
