History of Chris Appelhans in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: March 16, 2026

Chris Appelhans is an American artist known for his work as a film director, writer, illustrator, and designer. While his specific projects and contributions are not detailed, his multifaceted skillset positions him within the entertainment and artistic fields, suggesting involvement in visual storytelling and creative design across various media.

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Full Timeline

1998: Studied illustration at the ArtCenter College of Design

In 1998, Chris Appelhans studied illustration at the ArtCenter College of Design.

2006: Character designer and concept artist on Monster House

In 2006, Chris Appelhans began his film career as a character designer and concept artist on Monster House after being referred by Doug Chiang.

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2012: Concept for Disney's The Magic Catalogue

In 2012, Appelhans' concept was announced to be the basis of Disney's The Magic Catalogue, a sci-fi adventure film.

2012: Married Maurene Goo

In 2012, Chris Appelhans married author Maurene Goo.

2014: Met Michael Wu during a visit to China

In 2014, Chris Appelhans met Michael Wu, a cousin of his colleague, during a visit to China. His friendship with Wu served as the basis for Wish Dragon.

2015: Children's Choice Book Award for Sparky!

In 2015, Chris Appelhans' book, Sparky!, won the Children's Choice Book Award.

2015: Sparky! won the Children's Choice Book Award

In 2015, Sparky! by Jenny Offill, illustrated by Chris Appelhans, won the Children's Choice Book Award.

2017: Illustrated A Greyhound, a Groundhog

In 2017, Chris Appelhans illustrated A Greyhound, a Groundhog by Emily Jenkins.

2018: Director and writer of Wish Dragon

In 2018, Chris Appelhans was announced as the director and writer of the animated film Wish Dragon for Sony Pictures Animation.

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January 15, 2021: Wish Dragon released theatrically in China

On January 15, 2021, Wish Dragon was released theatrically in China.

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April 2021: KPop Demon Hunters officially announced

In April 2021, KPop Demon Hunters was officially announced by Sony Pictures Animation, with Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans as co-directors and writers.

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June 11, 2021: Wish Dragon released on Netflix internationally

On June 11, 2021, Wish Dragon was released on Netflix internationally.

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2021: Writer and director of Wish Dragon

In 2021, Chris Appelhans was the writer and director of Wish Dragon.

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June 20, 2025: KPop Demon Hunters released on Netflix

On June 20, 2025, KPop Demon Hunters was released on Netflix.

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2025: Co-directed and wrote KPop Demon Hunters

In 2025, Chris Appelhans co-directed and wrote KPop Demon Hunters with Maggie Kang. The film earned them two Annie Awards, a Golden Globe Award, and a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

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March 2026: KPop Demon Hunters sequel announced

In March 2026, Netflix and Sony Pictures Animation announced that Chris Appelhans and Maggie Kang will return to direct and write a sequel for KPop Demon Hunters.

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