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‘Avatar: Fire & Ash’ Box Office Surges Past $1.2 Billion Worldwide

Updated :  Thursday, January 15, 2026 3:49 AM

Key Points

  • James Cameron’s Avatar: Fire & Ash has earned $1.23 billion globally as of this weekend.
  • The film remains a top performer internationally, reinforcing its status as one of the year’s biggest releases.
  • In China, however, Disney’s Zootropolis 2 continues to dominate, outpacing Cameron’s latest installment.
  • Zootropolis 2 has already amassed $1.65 billion, leaving Avatar trailing behind.
  • The film’s long-term success may influence Disney’s decision on whether to greenlight a fourth Avatar movie.

Global Box Office Momentum

James Cameron’s return to Pandora with Avatar: Fire & Ash continues to deliver strong results at the global box office. After crossing the $1 billion milestone last week, the film added several hundred million more, bringing its worldwide total to $1.23 billion, according to Box Office Mojo.

The film’s performance underscores its enduring appeal across international markets, where audiences have embraced Cameron’s visually ambitious storytelling.

China Remains a Challenge

Despite its global dominance, Avatar: Fire & Ash faces stiff competition in China. Over the weekend, Disney’s Zootropolis 2 maintained its lead, reflecting stronger local appeal. The animated sequel has proven to be a box office juggernaut in the region, limiting Avatar’s ability to climb higher in that market.

Comparisons With Franchise Leaders

While the film’s numbers are impressive, Avatar: Fire & Ash still trails behind Zootropolis 2, which has already grossed $1.65 billion worldwide. Both previous Avatar films surpassed the $2 billion mark, raising questions about whether this third installment can reach similar heights.

Industry analysts note that the film’s trajectory could play a pivotal role in Disney’s decision-making regarding a potential fourth entry in the franchise.

Context: Why It Matters

The Avatar franchise has long been a benchmark for blockbuster filmmaking, blending cutting-edge technology with expansive world-building. Its box office performance not only reflects audience demand but also influences studio strategies for future installments.

With Cameron’s reputation for delivering global hits, the film’s ability to sustain momentum in the coming weeks will be closely watched by both fans and industry insiders.

What Happens Next?

As Avatar: Fire & Ash continues its theatrical run, its performance in key markets will determine whether it can close the gap with Zootropolis 2 and approach the $2 billion milestone. The next few weekends will be critical in shaping the film’s legacy and the future of the Avatar series.

Kelly Powers

Kelly Powers is an entertainment writer who brings the world of movies, music, and celebrity culture to life for audiences across the U.S. and beyond. With a flair for storytelling and a deep love for pop culture, she covers Hollywood trends, streaming sensations, and global entertainment news with insight and style. Kelly’s writing keeps readers informed, entertained, and always in tune with what’s hot in the entertainment world.