Sonic the Hedgehog Franchise Races Past $1 Billion at Global Box Office

Paramount Pictures’ Sonic the Hedgehog franchise has hit a major milestone, crossing $1 billion at the global box office. The success comes amid the strong performance of its third installment, which premiered domestically on December 20 and internationally on December 25. To date, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 has earned over $312 million, boosting the franchise's total to $1.037 billion.

The series, based on Sega’s iconic video game, launched in 2020 with Sonic the Hedgehog and followed up with Sonic the Hedgehog 2 in 2022. Together, the first two films grossed $725.2 million worldwide. Directed by Jeff Fowler, all three movies have captured fans with their humor, action, and nostalgic appeal.

The latest film has set new franchise records, receiving an “A” CinemaScore, a Certified Fresh score of 86% on Rotten Tomatoes, and a fan-favorite 96% Hot Popcornmeter rating. It also achieved the franchise’s fastest $100 million international box office haul.

Returning cast members include Jim Carrey as Dr. Robotnik, Ben Schwartz as Sonic, Idris Elba as Knuckles, and James Marsden. New faces, like Keanu Reeves and Alyla Browne, join the ensemble. The screenplay is by Pat Casey, Josh Miller, and John Whittington, with Neal H. Moritz, Toby Ascher, Toru Nakahara, and Hitoshi Okuno producing.

The franchise's expansion isn’t limited to films. Last year, the spinoff series Knuckles debuted on Paramount+, amassing 11 million global viewing hours in its first 28 days and becoming the platform’s top Kids & Family series.

Looking ahead, Paramount has confirmed development is underway for Sonic the Hedgehog 4.

Producers Neal H. Moritz and Toby Ascher expressed their gratitude, stating, “We are thrilled by the amazing response from fans worldwide. Their passion fuels our commitment to creating fast, funny, and action-packed stories in the ever-expanding Sonic Universe.”

Paramount Pictures President & CEO Brian Robbins added, “The Sonic franchise is an unstoppable cultural force with limitless potential. We’re proud to continue delivering stories that resonate with audiences everywhere.”

With its rapid growth and dedicated fanbase, Sonic the Hedgehog is racing toward an even brighter future.