Mark Sonnenblick, the Golden Globe and Grammy-winning songwriter behind Netflix’s “KPop Demon Hunters,” has confirmed that a sequel to the animated film is currently in development, capping a whirlwind year of accolades. In an interview with BBC Newsbeat published today, Sonnenblick revealed the news just hours after learning that his song “Golden” has been shortlisted for an Oscar, emphasizing the fan-driven success of the project.
Sonnenblick’s revelation comes during a period of extraordinary achievement. In 2026 alone, he has won a Golden Globe and a Grammy for co-writing “Golden,” the first K-Pop song to earn such honors, and now faces the possibility of an Academy Award. The songwriter described the experience as taking him from “zero to a million,” acknowledging the unexpected rise of “KPop Demon Hunters” from a Netflix release to a global phenomenon. The film itself became the platform’s most-watched movie, with its vibrant animation and catchy music resonating widely.
The sequel’s development is in its early stages, with Sonnenblick noting that “there’s going to be a whole development process before we get deep into writing the songs.” He stressed that the music will follow the story, contingent on whether it makes sense for the team to reunite. This aligns with previous statements from creator Maggie Kang, who has indicated that there is “definitely more” to explore with the characters, hinting at a continued narrative arc for the demon-hunting K-Pop group.
While fans await more details on the sequel, Sonnenblick is already channeling his success into new ventures. His musical, “Midnight at the Never Get,” is set to open at London’s Menier Chocolate Factory in July 2026, featuring Tony Award-winner Ben Platt in the lead role. The production, set in an illegal gay bar in 1960s New York, represents a shift from animated pop to live theatre, showcasing Sonnenblick’s versatility as a composer.
Platt, who won acclaim for “Dear Evan Hansen,” expressed enthusiasm for the project, praising Sonnenblick’s score and character depth. He humorously admitted to attempting “Golden” in the shower, relying on a karaoke version in a male key, highlighting the song’s challenging vocals and widespread appeal. This personal touch underscores the cultural footprint of “KPop Demon Hunters,” which has inspired covers and discussions across social media.
The announcement adds to the momentum for “KPop Demon Hunters,” which is also enjoying Oscar buzz with nominations for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song. As the film continues to screen in theatres for encore shows, the sequel news promises to fuel further engagement. Industry observers note that Netflix and Sony are likely to capitalize on the franchise’s popularity, with potential release windows speculated for later in the decade.
In summary, Sonnenblick’s confirmation of a sequel underscores the enduring impact of “KPop Demon Hunters” and its music. As the team navigates the development process, fans can look forward to more adventures from HUNTR/X, while Sonnenblick balances this with his theatrical debut in London. The story reflects how a surprise hit can evolve into a sustainable franchise, driven by artistic passion and audience connection.
