The upcoming animated film The Cat in the Hat features a voice cast including Bill Hader, Quinta Brunson, and Matt Berry, but it also includes a secret performance from a member of the production team. Ryan Gaffney, who serves as the head of story for the project, steps behind the microphone to voice Pig in a Wig, one of several new characters introduced in the movie.
Speaking exclusively with CBR at SCAD AnimationFest 2026 in Atlanta, Gaffney joined directors Erica Rivinoja and Alessandro Carloni, along with art director Amos Sussigan, to discuss the film's development. The team explained that while voice actors typically record solo, they occasionally brought a few performers together, though never the entire cast at once. Rivinoja noted that the casting process focused on selecting "funny, awesome people," which ultimately led to Gaffney being chosen for his role in the trailer.
The film expands upon Dr. Seuss' iconic book by exploring why the Cat visits bored children and where he goes afterward. The filmmakers decided the Cat is an agent sent out by the Institute for the Institution of Imagination and Inspiration, LLC. This premise allowed for the creation of new kooky creatures who also work for the Institute, including Giraffe with a Carafe, Yak with a Pack, Bug in a Mug, and Gaffney's Pig in a Wig. These characters share a visual signature with the Cat through their red-and-white-striped accessories.
Matt Berry joins the cast as Waffles, the goldfish who serves as a skeptical authority figure similar to a parent. Gaffney described Berry as a delight to work with, noting that the team intentionally created uncomfortable moments for the fish character to generate comedy. "Just hearing Matt Berry react felt like comedy gold," Gaffney said, adding that they may have "abused the fish" for the sake of the art. This conflict between the Cat's desire for fun and Waffles' adherence to rules provides both humor and emotional stakes within the story.
The Cat in the Hat is scheduled to open exclusively in theaters on November 6, 2026. The film has a runtime of 91 minutes and was written by Rivinoja and Carloni, who also serve as directors. Daniela Mazzucato is listed among the producers for the project.
Sources: Comic Book Resources.