The upcoming animated film dives into Philippine mythology with a powerhouse Filipino and Fil-Am lineup that include Lea Salonga and Liza Soberano.
Dolly de Leon, Jo Koy, and Amielynn Abellera are the latest actors of Filipino descent confirmed to join DreamWorks Animation’s upcoming film, “Forgotten Island.”
Of the three, Jo Koy (born Joseph Glenn Herbert) and Abellera are Filipino-American. Jo Koy is a widely recognized comedian, known for his Netflix stand-up specials and appearances as a host, guest, or panelist on shows like “Big Morning Buzz Live,” “Hollywood Uncensored,” and “Family Feud.”
Meanwhile, Abellera is a rising actress who began her career in television. She gained recognition for her role as Nurse Perlah, a Filipino nurse, in the 2025 series “The Pitt.”
“So out of my mind excited to join the incredible @forgottenislandmovie team,” Abellera shared in a recent Instagram post.
De Leon, the third addition, is an internationally acclaimed actress. She is known for her performances in Filipino independent films such as “Verdict” and “Ang Hupa,” and achieved global recognition for her role as Abigail in the 2022 film “Triangle of Sadness.” She has also appeared in local series like “Pusong Ligaw” and “Dirty Linen.”
“Over the moon with excitement and Pinoy pride to share ‘Forgotten Island’ with the world! Nakakaproud maging Pinoy,” De Leon wrote on Instagram.
The three actors join a star-studded cast that includes Lea Salonga, Liza Soberano, H.E.R., Dave Franco, Jenny Slate, Manny Jacinto, and Ronny Chieng.
“Forgotten Island” is an action-adventure comedy that follows best friends Jo and Raissa, who become stranded in the mystical island world of Nakali. As they search for a way home, they are faced with a difficult choice that could cost them a lifetime of shared memories. The film will also explore elements of Philippine mythology.
The film is directed by Joel Crawford, known for “The Croods: A New Age” and “Kung Fu Panda 2,” and Januel Mercado, who worked on “The Lego Ninjago Movie” and “Penguins of Madagascar.” The duo previously co-directed the Academy Award-nominated animated film “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.”
Anticipation for the project has been building since its announcement in 2025, particularly among Filipino audiences eager to see their stories represented on a global stage.
“Forgotten Island” is set to hit theaters in the United States on September 26.
Over the moon with excitement and Pinoy pride to share ‘Forgotten Island’ with the world! Nakakaproud maging Pinoy.
Dolly de Leon
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