Key Points:
- Coyote vs Acme is officially back on track for a theatrical release in 2026 after being acquired by Ketchup Entertainment.
- The live-action/animated hybrid movie, originally shelved by Warner Bros., was saved after industry backlash and intense negotiations.
- A specific release date has not yet been announced, but further details are expected in the coming months.
Is Coyote vs. Acme Still Being Released?
Yes, Coyote vs. Acme is now officially scheduled for a 2026 theatrical release after its acquisition by Ketchup Entertainment. Initially canceled by Warner Bros. Discovery in November 2023 for financial reasons, the film was saved following massive public and industry backlash. Warner Bros. allowed the filmmakers to seek a new distributor, leading to the deal with Ketchup Entertainment in March 2025 for approximately $50 million.
This acquisition ensures that the highly anticipated film, which blends live-action and animation, will finally reach audiences. While no exact release date has been confirmed as of April 2025, Ketchup Entertainment has committed to a full theatrical release rather than opting for streaming or a limited run.
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Why Was Coyote vs. Acme Originally Canceled?
The journey of Coyote vs. Acme has been one of the most debated Hollywood stories in recent years. The $70 million film, starring Will Forte and John Cena, was intended for theatrical release under Warner Bros. However, in November 2023, Warner Bros. Discovery made the surprising decision to cancel the film and claim a $115 million tax write-off, as part of a broader financial restructuring. This decision mirrored similar cancellations like Batgirl and Scoob! Holiday Haunt, both of which were scrapped despite being nearly completed.
The decision to shelve Coyote vs. Acme triggered a huge industry backlash, with many filmmakers, actors, and fans criticizing Warner Bros. for undervaluing completed projects. Several directors even canceled meetings with the studio in protest. Amidst this pressure, Warner Bros. reconsidered its position and allowed director Dave Green to shop the film to other potential buyers.
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Who Saved Coyote vs. Acme?
After Warner Bros. allowed the sale of the movie, multiple studios—including Netflix, Paramount, and Amazon—expressed interest. However, those deals fell through, leaving the film’s future uncertain. Finally, in March 2025, Ketchup Entertainment stepped in and successfully acquired the worldwide distribution rights.
Ketchup Entertainment, known for picking up The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie, has built a reputation for handling animated and hybrid films effectively. CEO Gareth West stated that the company sees Coyote vs. Acme as a perfect mix of nostalgia and modern storytelling, making it an exciting addition to their lineup.
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When Will Coyote vs. Acme Be Released in Theaters?
As of April 2025, Coyote vs. Acme is set to release in 2026, though an exact date has not yet been announced. Given Ketchup Entertainment’s past distribution patterns, the film is expected to have a wide theatrical release rather than a limited engagement.
Since the acquisition was finalized in March 2025, marketing and distribution plans are still being worked out. Updates regarding the official release date, trailers, and promotional material are expected later in 2025.
Will Coyote vs Acme Be Available on Streaming?
As of now, Coyote vs. Acme is confirmed for a theatrical release first, with no immediate streaming plans. However, like most theatrical films, it is expected to be available for digital rental and purchase a few months after its box office run.
Since Ketchup Entertainment owns the distribution rights, the film’s eventual streaming platform is uncertain. It may land on services such as Prime Video, Netflix, or HBO Max, but no agreements have been publicly announced.
After a tumultuous journey, Coyote vs. Acme is back on track for a 2026 theatrical release, thanks to its acquisition by Ketchup Entertainment. The film, which blends live-action and animation, faced an unexpected shelving by Warner Bros. in 2023 but was saved after industry-wide backlash.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter
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