'Big Hero 7' update: release date, new villain, confirmed TV series in the works

Along with the success of animated movie "Big Hero 6," rumor has it that a sequel is in the works. Titled "Big Hero 7," there are speculations that it will be released on 2017 or 2019. However, Walt Disney Animation has yet to confirm if the rumors were true.

Reports say that the story will follow the lives of Hiro and his friends, with his thought-to-be-dead older brother Tadashi turning into a villain. Tadashi was presumed dead after the explosion in the science expo, though his body was not seen. Rumor has it that he will go by the name Sunfire, but later on in the story, he will come to his senses and join Hiro's group in fighting the enemies. With the group having 7 members, it makes perfect sense for the title "Big Hero 7."

In an interview with Toronto Sun last year, Stan Lee mentioned the film as a part of Marvel's future projects which fans should anticipate. "After Ant-Man, we're going to start playing around with Doctor Strange, the Black Panther, the Inhumans, and then we have to come back for Guardians of the Galaxy 2, Big Hero 6, the Avengers, Captain America," he said. "I don't even know how they decide what to do next, because everyone of them is so exciting and the public is waiting for them," Lee added.

A "Big Hero 7" movie might be far in sight, but fans can surely expect a "Big Hero 6" TV series coming next year. Under the production of Disney XD, it was confirmed last month that the show will premiere on 2017. Gary Marsh, president and chief creative officer, Disney Channels Worldwide released a press statement via Variety, saying: "We are thrilled to have the opportunity to further develop these characters into a world-class animated series — full of fun, action and the kind of endearing storytelling that only Mark, Bob — and Baymax — can deliver."

"Big Hero 6" earned a worldwide estimated total of $657.8 million after its 2014 release, as noted by Box Office Mojo.