Bono, Letitia Wright and Pharrell Williams are joining the voicing characters in Universal and Illumination’s animated comedy Sing 2.

Universal and Illumination’s upcoming sequel, Sing 2, set to be released on 22nd December 2021, will include the voice talents of Bono, Letitia Wright and Pharrell Williams. The sequel also introduces new characters voiced by Bobby Cannavale, Chelsea Peretti, Halsey and Eric Andre. They join the returning voice cast of Matthew McConaughey, Reese Witherspoon, Scarlett Johansson, Taron Egerton and Nick Kroll.

“Sing 2 transcends the animation genre, immersing audiences in a fully realised world populated by complex characters, each with bold aspirations and relatable challenges,” said Illumination founder and CEO, Chris Meledandri. “We are thrilled that the Sing franchise attracts such exceptional talent, and we are delighted to announce this extraordinary cast.”

The first Sing film followed a group of animals in a singing competition. The sequel sees koala, Buster Moon, and his cast of underdogs push their talents beyond local theatre with the hopes of performing at the most prestigious venue in the entertainment world.

Bono, in his animated film debut, portrays lion Clay Calloway, who became the world’s most reclusive rock legend after the death of his wife. Before Buster Moon and crew can impress an intimidating music mogul, wolf Jimmy Crystal (Bobby Canavale), enough to grace the biggest stage, they must persuade Clay Calloway to perform in the show.

Among new voice cast members, Pharrell is playing Alfonso, an elephant ice cream truck owner who becomes a love interest of the shy elephant Meena (Tori Kelly). Halsey voices Jimmy Crystal’s teen daughter Porsche. Letitia Wright will portray a streetwise feline dancer who helps gorilla Johnny regain his confidence while learning his choreography. Eric Andre is playing a self-important yak who is cast in the stage production opposite Meena in a romantic duet, whilst Chelsea Peretti voices Jimmy Crystal’s haughty canine assistant and talent scout.

“The film is a musical celebration of the unrelenting pursuit of one’s dreams, no matter how large the challenges that stand in your way,” added Chris. “At its core, this movie speaks to the power of optimism and belief.”

Illumination is the studio behind Despicable Me, Minions and The Secret Life of Pets franchises.