Disney Character from Viral Lizard Meme Makes First Character Appearance

At the end of Pixar’s Elio, we got a first look at the upcoming new film, Hoppers. Since then, a supporting character in the film, Tom Lizard, has become a viral meme.

Keep reading to learn more about Hoppers, and Tom Lizard’s first character appearance. At Mickey Visit, we report on all the latest Disney news, like Disneyland Rise of the Resistance ride closure updates and a review of Disneyland’s fanciest restaurant that is reopening.

READ MORE – Secret Things to Do at Disney World Only the Theme Park Pros Know Exist 

Viral Hoppers Character Makes First Official Appearance

Photo via the Laughing Place

Tom Lizard was spotted by the Laughing Place walking around in San Francisco during ESPN’s First Take broadcast. He was seen holding signs that said “My name is Tom Lizard.” and “Has anyone seen Jon Hamm?” He stopped to take photos with fans and was caught in the back of ESPN’s broadcast for what we assume was planned marketing for the new film, Hoppers.

Photo via the Laughing Place

Tom Lizard’s clip during the post-credit scene of Elio, where he is seen repeatedly hitting a lizard emoji to which an automated voice says “lizard” each time, became a viral meme used mostly on TikTok and Instagram Reels. Tom’s blank-faced, grin was most used in content where the creator referenced repeatedly hitting something, such as a refresh button.

Disney Ride Closure ALERTS, Major Changes, Secrets Revealed

Get alerts on closures, park changes, exclusive discounts, and free printables. Trusted by 100,000+ Disney fans & planners.

While we do not have any word on whether Tom Lizard will become a character guest can meet at the parks, it was fun to see him out and about just over a month until the film’s release.

This information was first reported in an article by the Laughing Place.

Pixar’s Hoppers Amasses Interest Following Elio Box Office Fail

Hoppers Movie Poster
Photo via Disney

Hoppers was first teased in a post-credit scene of Elio, for which Tom Lizard is now popular for. Tom Lizards’ internet stardom may be just what Pixar needs to gross much more success in theaters than its failed predecessor film, Elio. 

Jon Hamm, Meryl Streep, Dave Franco and more have lent their voices to the project. Disney Channel alum Piper Curda voices the film’s main character, Mabel, a 19-year-old animal lover who puts her consciousness into a robotic beaver to learn about the animal world. According to the film’s IMDb page, Tom Lizard is voiced by Tom Law, who did voice work on Disney+’s Win or Lose mini series.

Hoppers will release in theaters on March 6, 2026.

READ MORE – SECRET Targets to Get High Score On Toy Story Midway Mania

You can watch the clip of the viral meme moment below:

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Pixar (@pixar)

Don’t Miss the Latest Disney News

Don’t miss the latest Disneyland and Disney World news from Mickey Visit. Join the FREE Mickey Visit newsletter that over 100k readers receive every single week. Mickey Visit is here to help you save money and experience more during your Disney and Universal vacation. See the Mickey Visit guide to Disneyland and the Mickey Visit guide to Disney World for tips.

Disney Ride Closure ALERTS, Major Changes, Secrets Revealed

Get alerts on closures, park changes, exclusive discounts, and free printables. Trusted by 100,000+ Disney fans & planners.

Disclosure: We have used all the products recommended on Mickey Visit. We may receive compensation when you click on links to some products featured.

About Peyton Ann Hodge

Peyton Ann is a News Writer for Mickey Visit and is currently in her last semester of college at Ohio University. She has worked as a freelance reporter for the Associated Press and completed a Disney College Program in merchandising. Her favorite ride is Rise of the Resistance!

Leave a Comment

MickeyVisit - Ultimate Disneyland Guide

Get Latest Mickey Visit Stories When You Search on Google

Get the latest Disney news and planning tips every day, live from the parks. Add us as a Google preferred source to see our stories when you search. Unlike mainstream media chasing clicks, Mickey Visit delivers fan-first Disney coverage. We do this because we love Disney too.

MickeyVisit - Ultimate Disneyland Guide

Disney Ride Closure ALERTS, Major Park Changes, Secrets Revealed + DISCOUNTS

Join 100,000+ Disney fans and vacation planners on our free newsletter. Get essential trip dates, ride closing alerts, new ride details, and exclusive limited-time discounts on tickets, hotels, and gift cards.
“Essential for planning your trip!” – Helen, Portland, Oregon