The SpongeBob Movie: Search for Squarepants (2025)

SpongeBob Fans, Rejoice!

Mark your calendars! “The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants” is officially set to hit theaters in the United States on December 19, 2025. This brand-new installment promises to take viewers on an exciting underwater adventure, making it a must-watch for SpongeBob lovers of all ages.

A High-Seas Adventure with The Flying Dutchman

In this fourth theatrical film of the beloved SpongeBob SquarePants franchise, SpongeBob embarks on a daring journey to the depths of the ocean to face the legendary ghost pirate, The Flying Dutchman, voiced by none other than Mark Hamill (Star Wars). The Flying Dutchman’s gruff yet goofy personality is sure to add an exciting mix of humor and villainy to the storyline. Hamill’s casting builds on his previous voice work in the SpongeBob universe, elevating his role to a central antagonist this time.

Nickelodeon’s Big Splash at San Diego Comic-Con 2024

The announcement of the movie was a highlight during Nickelodeon’s panel at San Diego Comic-Con 2024, held in Hall H to celebrate SpongeBob SquarePants’ iconic 25th anniversary. Fans were treated to appearances by the voice cast, including:

• Tom Kenny (SpongeBob)
• Bill Fagerbakke (Patrick)
• Carolyn Lawrence (Sandy Cheeks)
• Rodger Bumpass (Squidward)
• Clancy Brown (Mr. Krabs)
• Mr. Lawrence (Plankton)

The executive producers Marc Ceccarelli and Vincent Waller also joined the panel, giving fans a glimpse of what’s in store for Bikini Bottom’s favorite sponge.

Special Highlights from Comic-Con

The panel was packed with surprises and nostalgic moments for fans:

• Mark Hamill’s Big Reveal: Hamill surprised fans with the announcement of his role as The Flying Dutchman. His voice acting skills are sure to bring a fresh twist to the beloved antagonist.
• Live Table Reads: The voice cast performed live readings of fan-favorite episodes, including the 1999 pilot episode Help Wanted and Single-Celled Defense, giving the audience a nostalgic treat.
• Exclusive Previews: Fans got a sneak peek of Saving Bikini Bottom: The Sandy Cheeks Movie, available on Netflix starting August 2, 2024. The clip featured a hilarious high-speed car chase with Sandy and SpongeBob.
• New Content Alert: Nickelodeon also premiered a first look at the one-hour special SpongeBob SquarePants: Kreepaway Kamp, set to air this fall on Nickelodeon and Paramount+. In the special, SpongeBob and his friends attend a reunion at Kamp Koral, only to be stalked by a mysterious figure lurking in the shadows.

Mark Hamill’s Villainous Role: A Nostalgic Callback

Mark Hamill’s casting as The Flying Dutchman isn’t just exciting—it’s nostalgic. Fans will remember Hamill’s cameo as the voice of the Moth in a past episode. His new role brings him back to the SpongeBob universe, this time on a much grander scale. The Flying Dutchman’s character promises to bring both depth and humor, creating an unforgettable showdown with SpongeBob.

What to Expect from “The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants”

This movie continues the franchise’s legacy of delivering heartwarming, comedic, and action-packed adventures. With the iconic voice cast returning and new additions like Mark Hamill, fans can look forward to:

• An epic undersea journey.
• Hilarious antics from SpongeBob and his friends.
• A gripping showdown with The Flying Dutchman.
• Nostalgic callbacks for long-time fans of the show.

Release Date and Where to Watch

“The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants” will premiere exclusively in theaters on December 19, 2025, distributed by Paramount Pictures. Make sure to grab your tickets for this underwater cinematic event!