Sonic the Hedgehog 3: Release date, characters & more

Eleni Thomas
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 header image

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is confirmed to be going ahead and will round out the live-action trilogy. Whether you’re looking for the release date or cast details, here’s all you need to know. 

While recent Sonic video games may have struggled to win over fans, the live-action films have certainly brought about a new wave of popularity for the blue blur and other Sonic characters. 

For those eagerly anticipating Sonic’s next live-action appearance, here’s everything you need to know about Sonic the Hedgehog 3.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 release date: When will it be in cinemas?

Paramount Pictures have announced that Sonic the Hedgehog 3 will be released on December 20, 2024.

Sonic the Hedgehog 2 was released in theatres in April 2022, with many praising the film for its fun and exciting visuals, as well as its exploration of the classic Sonic lore. After the success of Sonic 2, Paramount Pictures was quick to greenlight a third film.

While Sonic 3’s release date is subject to change, a holiday release would be a similar release window to the first and second films. This release date means that it will be out roughly a year and a half after the second film and be competing with the other holiday films likely to release at a similar time.

Of course, this release date is at the same time as Avatar 3’s expected release, so who knows how that will affect things.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 Dr Robotnik image
Jim Carrey won fans over for his committed and over the top portrayal of Dr Robotnik

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 will see the return of Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles. The latter two have been properly introduced in the sequel and are likely to have an even bigger role in the third film. Idris Elba, the voice of Knuckles, will also be getting his own TV show for Paramount as well as appearing in the third film.

James Marsden is set to return as Sonic’s best friend, Tom Wachowski, as well as Ben Schwartz and Colleen O’Shaughnessey, who will be reprising their roles as Sonic and Tails, respectively.

Also returning is Jim Carrey as Dr. Robotnik. Confirmed by Variety, Carrey’s return comes after the actor expressed his desire to step away from acting. In footage screened at CinemaCon, Robotnik is depicted as depressed and overweight following the events of Sonic the Hedgehog 2.

Rounding out the cast is Keanu Reeves as Shadow the Hedgehog, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. Reeves’ casting puts to rest months of speculation about who would play Shadow.

Do we know about Sonic the Hedgehog 3 plot?

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 Shadow image
Shadow is one of the most iconic Sonic characters and will likely play a big role in Sonic 3

No, details on the plot for Sonic the Hedgehog 3 are currently slim. However, at the end of Sonic 2, the film’s post-credit scene introduces Shadow. Sonic fans will likely recognize this character and know him for being the polar opposite of Sonic in every way possible. In Sonic lore, Shadow is almost always portrayed as the villain and has battled it out on multiple occasions.

While exact details about the plot of Sonic the Hedgehog 3 are still scarce, the film will likely follow Sonic and company as they try to defeat Shadow. It’s possible that Dr Robotnik will team up with Shadow, similar to the way he did with Knuckles in the second film.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3: Is there a trailer?

There is currently no trailer or footage that has been released about Sonic the Hedgehog 3. However, check back in here for updates on the film as well as any news about its plot, release, and cast.

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About The Author

Eleni is a Melbourne-based journalist. Having completed her Bachelor's in communication (Journalism) at RMIT University, Eleni is now a Senior Writer for the Dexerto Australia team. A big Nintendo fan (with a Triforce tattoo to prove it) and a lover of the zombie genre, Eleni covers gaming, entertainment as well as TV and movies for the site. She is also passionate about covering Queer and female representation. Contact Eleni at eleni.thomas@dexerto.com