By Cecilia Sarantopoulos
With the whirlwind of excitement from this year’s D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event still fresh, there’s no better time to recap 23 standout moments that fans—whether attending in person or watching from afar—will cherish. From unforgettable reunions to moving speeches, this year’s event was a celebration of magic, dreams, and the stories that connect us all.
Iconic Duet: Hayley Mills and Lesley Ann Warren Reunite at “Jolly Holiday: A D23 Musical Celebration of Richard M. Sherman”
At Sunday’s tuneful celebrating of Disney Legend Richard Sherman, his fellow Disney Legend Hayley Mills and iconic actress Lesley Ann Warren stole the spotlight with a surprise duet of “Let’s Get Together.” Their performance was like a time machine straight to Disney’s golden era, and the audience was all in!
Anika Noni Rose Serenades Fans with “Almost There”
Talk about royal treatment! At the “Disney Princess: Creating Tiana’s World” panel on Sunday, hosted by Yvette Nicole Brown, fans were treated to a musical feast as Disney Legend Anika Noni Rose—our beloved Princess Tiana—graced the stage with a soulful rendition of “Almost There.” Rose shared her journey from auditioning to recording, giving fans a behind-the-scenes glimpse into what it took to become Disney’s first Black princess.
Simple Plan and Mickey Mouse Rock D23 with “Can You Feel the Love Tonight?” Performance
On Friday, August 9, Simple Plan set the D23 Spotlight Stage ablaze! With their newest single from the highly anticipated pop-punk Disney cover album A Whole New Sound on the horizon, the band cranked up the nostalgia to 11.
Fans of the early 2000s sensation were up and singing along to their greatest hits, but it was their lively rendition of The Lion King’s “Can You Feel the Love Tonight?” that truly stole the show—celebrating the movie’s 30th anniversary with a punk twist that even Rafiki would’ve danced to.
“So How Do You Direct Animation, Anyway?” Panel on Friday
... Well, how do you? Pete Docter, Jared Bush, Peter Sohn, Jennifer Lee, Ron Clements, and Domee Shi each brought their unique take to the evening’s burning question. Pixar Chief Creative Officer Docter shared his tip on avoiding set-in-stone line readings, while Walt Disney Animation Studios Chief Creative Officer Lee recounted how Olaf was born from a marathon improv session with Disney Legend Josh Gad. The panel made it clear: The road from idea to screen can be bumpy—but it is this very journey that breathes life into the characters and stories we know and love.
Miley Cyrus Becomes the Youngest Disney Legend
From rocking out on stage as herself to dazzling us with her alter ego Hannah Montana (whom she’s still “so proud to be”), Cyrus is now officially a Disney Legend! It’s like she’s living her own "Best of Both Worlds" fantasy—but this time, the spotlight is all hers. So, here’s to Cyrus, proving once again that she’s not just living the dream—she’s making history!
Disney Princesses Unite to Honor Animator Mark Henn at Legends Ceremony
Disney Legends Jodi Benson, Paige O’Hara, Linda Larkin, Ming-Na Wen, and Anika Noni Rose—who voice Ariel, Belle, Jasmine, Mulan, and Tiana, respectively—gathered to honor their masterful animator at Sunday’s Disney Legends Awards Ceremony at the Honda Center. Earlier that day, during the “Disney Legends in Conversation” panel, Disney Legend Don Hahn cheekily revealed that—as the genius behind five of Disney’s unforgettable heroines—Henn is affectionately known as “the ladies’ man” around the studio.
BDX Droids at Imagineering: Behind the Dreams
Occasionally appearing in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland, the BDX Droids took the Imagineering: Behind the Dreams pavilion by storm and melted attendees' mainframes with their adorable movements. Capable of free-roaming, what makes these droids so unique is their extremely expressive motions, something Disney Research and Walt Disney Imagineering Research & Development put great care into.
Sweet Victory: Sugar Rush Racers Group Cosplay Takes D23 by Storm
From intricate gumdrop accents to sophisticated lollipop motifs, these fans’ sugary ensembles almost gave us a cavity... and we liked it! They took “group cosplay” to a whole new level, turning a cosplay meet-up at Grand Plaza Fountain into a visual candy land. Delicious!
D23 Mousequerade: Meet the Showstopping Cosplay Winners
When Disney magic meets high fashion, the results are nothing short of enchanting. From meticulously sewn crystals to hand-painted details, the craftmanship at this year’s D23 Mousequerade was truly exceptional. But it wasn’t just about looking good—these cosplayers knew how to work the runway, too. Take a gander at 2024’s three categories and their winners:
- “Fantastic Worlds” – Diva of EPCOT: Tangledfett
- “Epic Adventures” – The Rumor, The Legend, The Mystery! Grand Duchess Anastasia: Maryna Matlock
- “Cast of Characters” – Golden Afternoon: Cassie Wanda and Friends
- “Audience Choice” – Disney’s Magic Beginning: Jessica Martin and Friend
Daniel Diemer Surprises Fans at Percy Jackson and the Olympians Panel
The crowd erupted in cheers at Daniel Diemer’s unexpected arrival at the Percy Jackson and the Olympians panel on Saturday—a clear testament to fans’ heightened anticipation for the new season! Diemer, who will be joining Season 2 of the series as a cyclops and Percy’s (Walker Scobell) half-brother, shared his thrill about diving into the world of demigods and monsters.
Phineas and Ferb Creators Share Behind-the-Scenes Secrets at D23
Have you ever wanted to draw Perry the Platypus? Well, you’re in luck! Masterminds Dan Povenmire and Jeff “Swampy” Marsh took fans behind the curtain during Friday’s “Shenanigans with Phineas and Ferb” panel, sharing secrets about the creation of everyone's favorite teal spy. From the show’s origins to the wackiest inventions they’ve dreamt up, the duo dished out all the deets on how they turned a simple summer into a legendary series.
And yes, they even gave a step-by-step guide on how to sketch out that iconic platypus grin. Fans left with a new appreciation for the show's humor—and a few doodles of their own!
David Blaine’s Do Not Attempt Nat Geo Series Premieres First Look
This isn’t your average magic show; it’s a high-stakes extravaganza where the line between illusion and reality blurs, and you’ll find yourself questioning everything you thought you knew about magic (and maybe even gravity). “I’ve always loved things that look like magic but are real,” says Blaine in the show’s trailer.
As part of the announcement, Blaine did a card trick on the Honda Center stage during Friday’s Entertainment Showcase. David Blaine: Do Not Attempt will premiere on National Geographic in 2025—remember, do not attempt!
Jodi Benson, Paige O’Hara, and Coco Jones Dazzle in “Disney Princess: The Concert”
Disney Legends Jodi Benson and Paige O’Hara and special guest Coco Jones graced the Premiere Stage on Friday for a magical evening at “Disney Princess: The Concert.” Dressed in their royal best, fans of all ages were transported to a fairytale world where dreams truly do come true.
Star-Studded Surprises at “World’s Fair” Panel: Jon Favreau, Kevin Feige, and More
The “A Beautiful Tomorrow—Just a Dream Away: Disney at the 1964–65 New York World’s Fair” panel on Saturday turned into a full-on star fest: Hosted by Leonard Maltin, the panel featured Walt Disney Archives’ Becky Cline, Pixar Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter, Imagineer Tom Fitzgerald, and Tomorrowland production designer Ramsey Avery, who took fans on a trip back to the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair and the debut of the Ford Mustang. Surprise guests Jon Favreau, Kevin Feige, and Michael Giacchino crashed the party, dropping insider gems and leaving attendees buzzing with excitement.
“Peelverine” Cosplay Steals the Show: Epic Games/Marvel Mashup
As Fortnite gears up for its Marvel-centric Chapter 5, Season 4: Absolute Doom, the excitement has sparked some truly inventive cosplay... including this standout “Peelverines” (Peely x Wolverine) ensemble. Fans at D23 embraced the superhero twist, and the spectacle was as creative as it was hilarious!
Toy Story 5: Toys vs. Electronics—New Adventure Revealed
In an exciting twist for the beloved franchise, Toy Story 5 is set to pit our favorite toys against the new wave of high-tech gadgets. The latest installment—announced at Friday’s Entertainment Showcase—promises a showdown between timeless playthings and the sleek, shiny electronics of today, as Woody, Buzz, and their crew navigate the challenges of an increasingly digital world. Expect plenty of nostalgic charm, high-stakes adventure, and, of course, the heartfelt moments that have always defined the Toy Story series.
Disney Channel Star Reunite at D23 for Nostalgic Celebration
Thirteen Disney Channel stars turned Saturday’s panel into a nostalgic fiesta, with veterans like Raven-Symoné, Monique Coleman, Corbin Blue, and David Henrie dropping wisdom bombs for the rising stars of Descendants: Rise of Red, ZOMBIES 4, Wizards Beyond Waverly Place, and Disney Jr.’s Ariel. Tears were shed, laughter echoed, and the event was a heartwarming celebration of Disney Channel’s enduring legacy and of what’s to come.
Jim Cummings Surprises Fans with Intro for “Magic After Dark: The Story of Disney’s Nighttime Spectaculars”
Fans were absolutely buzzing over Jim Cummings’ surprise intro at the “Magic After Dark: The Story of Nighttime Spectaculars” panel on Sunday. The renowned voice actor, known for his iconic roles including Winnie the Pooh and Darkwing Duck, introduced the presentation with a goosebump-inducing live performance of the famous opening to “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth.”
Oogie Boogie Voice Actor Ken Page Takes the Stage with Spooky “Poor Unfortunate Souls” Performance
Iconic voice actor (and Broadway vet) Ken Page emerged from the shadows during Sunday’s “Disney Character Voices: Inside the Studio” panel, giving everyone a frightfully delightful surprise by performing “Poor Unfortunate Souls.” As his hauntingly perfect rendition filled the room, one thing became clear: Halloween came early, and it came with a bang!
Father-Son Duet: Bill and Austin Farmer Sing “Nobody Else But You”
Gawrsh—some Kleenex, anyone? Disney Legend Bill Farmer and his son Austin took to the stage of the “Making A Goofy Movie: The Road to Lake Destiny” panel on Friday to perform “Nobody Else But You” from the film, and their duet was the ultimate feel-good moment. With every note, they proved that the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.
Deadpool Cosplay Frenzy
Deadpool cosplays were out in full force, with fans clearly still buzzing from the recent Deadpool x Wolverine movie smashing the $1 billion box office mark. The Merc with a Mouth was everywhere—cracking jokes, striking poses, and proving that he’s just as unstoppable in cosplay form as he is on the big screen. It was hard to tell where the movie magic ended and the con-floor antics began.
ZOMBIES 4 and Descendants: Rise of Red Cast Shine at Talent Central
At Talent Central, the atmosphere was charged with heartfelt moments as the casts of ZOMBIES 4 and Descendants: Rise of Red came together with fans for some truly memorable interactions. Guests had the chance to chat, laugh, and pose for photos with their favorite stars—an unforgettable opportunity for many!
Sherman Brothers Tribute: Heartfelt Home Videos and Touching Memories
The “Magic Journeys: Memories of the Sherman Brothers” panel on Saturday wasn’t just a stroll down memory lane—it was a full-on feels fest. With home videos from their Disneyland visits and stories about the brothers’ weddings days, the panel gave fans a peek into the lives of Disney’s most iconic songwriting duo.
From the earworm magic of “It's a Small World” to the tongue-twisting fun of “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious,” this tribute reminded everyone that the Sherman Brothers didn’t just write songs—they penned the anthems of our childhoods.