“I hope this movie isn’t a cat-astrophe”—Fans laugh as ‘Cat in the Hat’ animated movie is set for February 2026

Dr. Seuss' The Cat in the Hat is one book that not only kept us all entertained as kids but also inspired the 2003 movie starring Mike Myers as the funny and lovable cat. Although the film received mixed reviews, it still holds a special place in the hearts of those who were kids back then, many of whom are now eager to see the story retold in a fresh style. Well, they're in luck because that's exactly what's about to happen.

The highly anticipated The Cat in the Hat animated movie is set to release in theaters on February 27, 2026, with actor and comedian Bill Hader voicing the Cat. The announcement has left fans of the original movie feeling nostalgic and eager to see how the new animated version will unfold.

"I hope this movie isn't a cat-astrophe," a user joked

Ah, we see what you did there, good sir. Let’s hope the movie delivers and turns out to be much better than the 2003 version; otherwise, it might just end up being a catastrophe.

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Hilarious fan reactions

Many other fans were thrilled and amused by the news, quickly taking to the internet to share their hilarious reactions.

Say no more! (via @janethemage/X)

Bill Hader voicing The Cat in the Hat? Could there be a better choice for a voice actor who can do impressions of half of Hollywood?

"One delay after another," commented another.

It seems many movies have been pushing back their release dates lately—titles like The Batman 2 and even Superman. But The Cat in the Hat has done the opposite, moving its release a week earlier. Who knew a cat could accomplish what superheroes couldn't!

The perfect casting (via @cdcvlogs/X)

No wonder Bill Hader was cast to voice The Cat—he practically stepped into the skin, fur, and paws of the character during his time on SNL!

"Being honest here the original live action movie scared me so bad as a kid it still freaks me out. I’ll be glad to see a nice animated face that’s not scary," a fan wrote.

Whoa, who knew that the 2003 The Cat in the Hat scared so many kids back in the day? Hopefully, the animated version will feel much friendlier and far less nightmare-inducing!

"If it’s not as raunchy as the live action then i will NOT be seated," said another.

Now that’s quite an unusual wish, hoping the animated version is as raunchy as the live-action one. That might not exactly scream kid-friendly…

Well, it’s official! The Cat in the Hat animated movie is all set to release on February 27, 2026. So, for all the fans of the book and the 2003 movie, mark your calendars!