Pixar announced that its 2006 hit Cars will hit theaters again in September 2026, marking the 20th anniversary of the original release. The re‑release will showcase Michael Keaton’s voice as rival Chick Hicks, joining Owen Wilson’s Lightning McQueen and the original ensemble cast.

September 2026 marks the 20‑year theatrical return of Cars

According to the studio’s X post, the anniversary screening arrives exactly two decades after the film’s debut, promising fans a chance to experience the “journey matters as much as the finish line” message on the big screen once more. The announcement highlights that the original voice talent, including Paul Newman’s legacy cameo and cameo‑style appearances by personalities such as Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Jay Leno, will be retained.

Michael Keaton’s Chick Hicks returns alongside Owen Wilson’s Lightning McQueen

The re‑release retains Michael Keaton’s iconic turn as the cocky rival Chick Hicks, a role that first introduced the actor to a new generation of viewers. As the source notes, Keaton’s résumé spans from early comedies like Night Shift (1982) to his Batman years, making his involvement a notable draw for both nostalgic adults and younger audiences.

Box‑office legacy : $462 million worldwide on a $120 million budget

When it first opened, Cars earned $462 million globally, ranking as the sixth‑highest‑grossing film of 2006 behind blockbusters such as Casino Royale and Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest. The film’s strong financial performaance, combined with a 74% Rotten Tomatoes rating and an 80% audience score, underscores its lasting commercial appeal, a fact highlighted by the source.

Why the film still resonates: themes of friendship and purpose

ScreenRant’s Kevin Erdmann,cited in the source, argues that the movie’s core messages—valuing the journey over the destination and questioning hollow success—continue to strike a chord with viewers. while critics have sometimes labeled the plot “relatively simple,” the film’s vibrant animation and relatable characters keep it relevant,especially as families revisit it in a theatrical setting.

Open question: Will the anniversary run include any new footage or upgrades?

The announcement does not specify whether Pixar will add remastered visuals, bonus scenes, or a new score for the 2026 showing. As of now, the only confirmed element is the original voice cast; any enhancements remain unverified, leaving fans to wonder what, if anything, will differentiate this run from the 2006 original.