By LILY TINOCO | Reporter
The stars of Pixar’s 2001 animated film “Monsters, Inc.” are coming to the small screen in their own expanded universe with the debut of “Monsters at Work” this summer on Disney+.
“Monsters at Work” marks Pixar’s second television spin-off to date, following the animated “Buzz Lightyear of Star Command.”
Original cast members are reprising their roles, including former Honorary Mayor of Pacific Palisades Billy Crystal as Mike Wazowski, the business partner and best friend of Sulley, the giant blue beast voiced by John Goodman.
“‘Monsters at Work’ will take place in the aftermath of ‘Monsters, Inc.,’ which saw Mike and Sulley rise to the rank of heroes when they discovered children’s laughter—not frightened screams—provided a stronger and more easily replenished source of energy,” according to a report by Timeout. “This will mark the streamer’s first expansion of the Pixar world.”
A number of original cast members are returning as well, including Bob Peterson as Roz and Jennifer Tilly as Celia, Mike’s snake-haired girlfriend. Mindy Kaling will be joining the cast as Val Little, alongside Ben Feldman as Tylor and Henry Winkler as Fritz.
“It’s so exciting to go back to Pixar’s world of monsters and seeing some old faces again,” one fan wrote on Twitter. “I can’t wait to see this show in July.”
A trailer released on Monday, May 17, implied that Mike and Sulley have been promoted and left in charge. From what the trailer revealed, Roz promotes the duo to management positions where they are responsible for overseeing the Monsters, Inc. Facilities Team.
“Monsters at Work” was developed and executive produced by Disney animation’s Roberts Gannaway, while Academy Award-nominated Sean Lurie produces, and Kat Good and Steve Anderson serve as supervising directors.
American animator, storyboard artist and director for Pixar Rob Gibbs, who died in 2020, directed some of the show’s earlier episodes.
“Monsters at Work” is slated to premiere on Wednesday, July 7, and will feature 10 episodes, which each run for 22 minutes.
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