From Disney Channel to Pixar Star: Piper Curda’s Rise with ‘Hoppers’
Piper Curda is experiencing a career renaissance, headlining Pixar’s new animated comedy, “Hoppers” as Mabel. The 28-year-old actress, who first gained recognition as a Disney Channel star, is now captivating audiences with her voice operate and relatable personality, a journey unexpectedly fueled by TikTok.
Early Career and Disney Beginnings
Curda’s early career included roles in Disney Channel’s “A.N.T. Farm” and “Teen Beach 2.” Despite early aspirations, she initially struggled to find consistent work after her Disney Channel appearances. She later appeared in television series such as “The Morning Show,” “Matlock,” and “Watson.”
‘Hoppers’ and the Role of Mabel
In “Hoppers,” Curda voices Mabel Tanaka, a 19-year-old animal lover and college student fiercely protective of a local glade threatened by a new highway bypass. Mabel utilizes a groundbreaking technology developed by her biology professor to transfer her consciousness into a robotic beaver, allowing her to communicate with animals and fight for their habitat. The film features a voice cast including Jon Hamm, Bobby Moynihan, Kathy Najimy, and Dave Franco.
TikTok’s Unexpected Role
During the 2023 actors’ strike, Curda reluctantly joined TikTok, initially vowing to avoid the platform. She began posting candid videos about her life and experiences in the entertainment industry. These authentic posts resonated with viewers, and her account caught the eye of Daniel Chong, the director of “Hoppers,” who believed Curda embodied the spirit of Mabel. Curda described the experience as “therapeutic” and was surprised by the connection she formed with her audience.
A Family of Actors
Curda comes from a family deeply rooted in the performing arts. Her siblings—Riley Chai (“Jane by Design”), Major (“Riverdale”), Glory (“Nightingale” podcast), and Saylor (“Twisted Metal”)—are all actors. She credits her parents with unwavering support of their children’s creative pursuits.
Beyond ‘Hoppers’: A Diverse Career
Curda is embracing a diverse range of roles, including appearances in the indie horror films “CognAItive” and “The Dregs.” She expressed a desire to explore more action-oriented roles in the future.
‘Hoppers’ Release and Reception
“Hoppers” premiered at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles on February 23, 2026, and was released in the United States on March 6, 2026. The film’s plot centers on Mabel inadvertently sparking an uprising among animals as she attempts to save their habitat. The film has a runtime of 105 minutes and a budget of $150 million, and has grossed $88 million as of March 9, 2026.