See These Doctor Who Stars Throughout the Worlds of Disney

By Courtney Potter

When last we caught up with the Fifteenth Doctor (Ncuti Gatwa) and Ruby Sunday (Millie Gibson) on Doctor Who, now streaming on Disney+, they were working alongside UNIT to investigate Ruby’s past—but horrifying secrets from Christmas Eve were revealed, and the mysterious Triad Technology unleashed the greatest evil of all…

With the latest season of the long-running, fan-favorite series concluding this Friday, June 21, on the streaming service, it seemed the perfect time to take a spin through the worlds of Disney to find some of our favorite Whovian stars! Many have made appearances in other Disney-related projects over the years—and they’re available for your viewing pleasure on Disney+ and Hulu. Take a look, and make it a veritable Who-niverse bonanza this weekend!

In an image from the Doctor Who special “Wild Blue Yonder” on Disney+, David Tennant as the Fourteenth Doctor is seen leaning against a wall of pipes; it’s dark and he’s looking off camera to the left, seriously. He’s wearing a tie and a plaid waistcoat and pants.

 David Tennant (The Fourteenth Doctor, 60th Anniversary Specials: “The Star Beast,” “Wild Blue Yonder,” “The Giggle”)

With a long-running career—spanning all manner of genres—like David Tennant’s, it’s no surprise he’s made multiple appearances in projects from Disney, Lucasfilm, and more. You no doubt recall his dulcet tones as the voice of Scrooge McDuck in the most recent version of DuckTales (streaming now on Disney+)… but you probably also heard his voice as Huyang, a Mark IV architect droid professor on the animated series Star Wars: The Clone Wars and on the recent live-action series Star Wars: Ahsoka. And let’s not forget his star turn as Kevin Thompson/Kilgrave on Marvel Studios’ Jessica Jones.

In an image from the Doctor Who special “The Giggle” on Disney+, Neil Patrick Harris as the Toymaker stands in a colorful toy shop. He is dressed in a brown apron, with pockets full of tools, and plaid waistcoat with a polka-dot bow tie. He’s wearing glasses, and is peering over them with a smirk.

Neil Patrick Harris (The Toymaker, 60th Anniversary Special: “The Giggle”)

Not only is Neil Patrick Harris an unabashed Disney fan (case in point: the numerous holiday seasons he’s gone down to Walt Disney World Resort and hosted the Candlelight Processional at EPCOT… or just, y’know, the copious times he’s visited either Walt Disney World or Disneyland Resort with his family)… but he’s also made a number of Disney-related TV and film appearances: guest-starring on How I Met Your Father (Hulu)—as fan-favorite Barney Stinson—and FOX’s Glee (Disney+); providing his voice for Star Wars: Visions (Disney+); even staffing the telethon phonelines in 2011’s The Muppets (Disney+).

In an image from the Doctor Who episode “The Devil’s Chord” on Disney+, Jinkx Monsoon as Maestro is seen crawling out of an upright piano, menacingly. She has a shock of red hair as is wearing a sparkly black gown with piano keys around the neckline.

Jinkx Monsoon (Maestro, “The Devil’s Chord”)

Jinkx Monsoon first came to pop-culture prominence as the season five winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race, and then as the winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars Season 7… but in the years since, the multi-talented performer has proven herself on increasingly big stages and screens—including a recent star turn off-Broadway as Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors (opposite none other than High School Musical’s Corbin Bleu!). But before she took on a truly memorable Doctor Who villain in “The Devil’s Chord,” Monsoon was seen as Em K. Ultra in the Hulu holiday-themed romantic comedy Happiest Season, starring Kristen Stewart, Mackenzie Davis, Alison Brie, and Dan Levy, and directed by Clea Duvall.

In an image from the Doctor Who episode “Boom” on Disney+, Varada Sethu as Mundy Flynn is seen wearing futuristic army-style fatigues and holding a communication tablet of some kind. Her head is bandaged, there’s a weapon slung around her toros, and she’s looking off to the right. Her surroundings look dark and post-apocalyptic.

Varada Sethu (Mundy Flynn, “Boom”)

Viewers may recognize Varada Sethu from her role as Cinta Kaz on the Disney+ series Andor. But her entry into the Doctor Whouniverse has already been quite noteworthy; Sethu appeared as a character named Mundy Flynn in the episode “Boom,” but the actress will also return next season as The Doctor’s companion. Is she returning as Mundy? Is it a whole new character? Guess we’ll have to tune in to find out!

In an image from the Doctor Who episode “Rogue” on Disney+, Disney Legend Jonathan Groff as Rogue is standing behind a console. There appears to be a weapon of some kind in front of him. The light from the console illuminates his face from below. He’s wearing a blue coat and tie.

Jonathan Groff (Rogue, “Rogue”)

It’s not every day that a Disney Legend guest stars on Doctor Who! But that’s just what happened when Jonathan Groff appeared in the recent episode “Rogue.” You can find Groff all across the worlds of Disney, from guest-starring on FOX’s Glee to his Tony®Award-nominated turn as King George in Hamilton… and there’s no way we can forget his portrayal of Kristoff in the Frozenfranchise! All of which are available to stream on Disney+.

In an image from the Doctor Who episode “Rogue” on Disney+, Indira Varma as the Duchess of Pemberton is peering at someone to her right from behind a large display of pink flowers and stems. She is wearing an 1800s-style dress, gloves, and headpiece.

Indira Varma (Duchess of Pemberton, “Rogue”)

One of Groff’s costars in the episode “Rogue” is Indira Varma, whom audiences may recognize as Tala Durith from the Disney+ series Obi-Wan Kenobi, starring Ewan McGregor. Tala was a disillusioned Imperial officer on the planet Mapuzo, who helped Jedi escape the Empire with help from The Path network. And Varma is no stranger to the Doctor Who universe, as she previously played Suzie Costello in its spin-off series Torchwood. 

8 Disney+ Movies to Inspire Your Summer Fun

By Cecilia Sarantopoulos

Every year, summer brings the possibilities of endless days, road trips, and seaside adventures. For those who have a soft spot for the warmest season, we’ve compiled a playlist of titles that perfectly capture its essence.

You know them, you love them. Here are eight must-watch films on Disney+ that will keep you cool, entertained, and nostalgic:

In a scene from Lilo & Stitch, Stitch (voiced by Chris Sanders), an extraterrestrial life-form resembling a blue koala, and Lilo (voiced by Daveigh Chase) are dancing in an outdoor market. Stitch is wearing a green Hawaiian leaf hula skirt, while Lilo is wearing a yellow tunic with green leaf patterns and brown sandals. In the background, there are barrels of fresh produce, such as cherry tomatoes. Two signs read “Cherry tomatoes two dollars a pound.” and “Fresh Produce.”

Lilo & Stitch (2002)
Experience a heartwarming tropical adventure with a quirky alien twist. The Hawaiian setting and heartfelt story make Lilo & Stitch a summer must-watch.

In a scene from Finding Nemo, Marlin (voiced by Albert Brooks), a clownfish, and Dory (voiced by Ellen DeGeneres), a blue tang, are speaking to each other in the ocean. They are surrounded by purple and pink corals, with crystal blue waters in the background.

Finding Nemo (2003)
This Oscar®-winning classic follows Marlin (voiced by Albert Brooks) and Dory (voiced by Ellen DeGeneres) as they brave the ocean’s many dangers to rescue Marlin’s son, Nemo (voiced by Alexander Gould). The underwater visuals of the Great Barrier Reef and thrilling ocean adventures make Finding Nemo an essential addition to this summer watchlist!

In a scene from Aquamarine, Hailey Rogers (JoJo), Aquamarine (Sara Paxton), and Claire Brown (Emma Roberts) are standing next to each other. Hailey is wearing an orange tank top with green butterflies and dark-tinted sunglasses. Aquamarine is wearing a purple tank top and pink sunglasses. Claire is wearing a pink top with ruffles and flowers patterns and gray sunglasses.

Aquamarine (2006)
A gem of early 2000s nostalgia, Aquamarine is a splashy tale of friendship and mermaids. Two best friends discover a mermaid named Aquamarine (Sara Paxton) in their beach club’s pool, leading to a story filled with humor and heart.

In a scene from High School Musical 2, Troy Bolton (Zac Efron), Gabriella Montez (Vanessa Hudgens), and Chad Danforth (Corbin Bleu) are dancing in a kitchen. Troy (left) and Chad (right) are wearing blue button-up shirts, beige khaki pants, and black-and-white sneakers as they high-five. Gabriella (center), smiling at Troy, wears a white zip-up jacket, red and white shorts, and white ballet flats. Surrounding them, other cast members join the musical number “Work This Out,” striking poses for the camera.

High School Musical 2 (2007)
“We’re gonna have fun in the sun/ Now that all the hard work, work is done.” Need we say more? Join Troy (Zac Efron), Gabriella (Vanessa Hudgens), and the Wildcats as they navigate the balance of work and fun at the Lava Springs Country Club.

In a scene from The Last Song, Ronnie (Miley Cyrus) and Will (Liam Hemsworth), are inside a red car. Will is driving, while Ronnie sits in the passenger seat, smiling and looking ahead. Will gazes at her from the driver’s seat. Trees are in the background of the scene.

The Last Song (2010)
Prepare to be swept away by a mix of excitement and tears. The Last Song captures an unforgettable summer romance between Veronica “Ronnie” Miller (Miley Cyrus) and Will Blakelee (Liam Hemsworth), adapted from the novel by Nicholas Sparks.

In a scene from Teen Beach Movie, Brady (Ross Lynch) and McKenzie (Maia Mitchell) dance with other actors on a sandy beach. Brady wears a short-sleeve yellow top and blue bathing suit shorts with orange stripes. McKenzie sports a black zip-up top with pink accents, paired with patterned bathing shorts. Palm trees and an orange building with a white rood create a backdrop.

Teen Beach Movie (2013)
Brady (Ross Lynch) and McKenzie (Maia Mitchell) are transported into a 1960s beach movie, where they must blend in and find their way back home—all while encountering surfers, bikers, and catchy musical numbers.

In a scene from Luca, Alberto (voiced by Jack Dylan Grazer) and Luca (voiced by Jacob Tremblay), two young sea monsters, swim in the ocean. Alberto, with light and dark blue scales and purple hair, wears brown shorts and a yellow tank top. Luca, who has teal and dark blue scales, wears blue shorts and a checkered green shirt. In the background, there is a rocky wall.

Luca (2021)
Luca (voiced by Jacob Tremblay) and Alberto (voiced by Jack Dylan Grazer), two young sea monsters, venture on land, where they appear as human boys, creating memories filled with gelato, pasta, and endless scooter rides on the Italian Riviera. Luca is basically summer itself, transformed into a movie.

Members of the Beach Boys pose for a portrait against a yellow backdrop. From left to right are Al Jardine, Mike Love, Dennis Wilson, Brian Wilson, and Carl Wilson. They are all wearing short sleeve plaid shirts, pants and white loafers. Love and Carl Wilson are sitting on two red mopeds.

The Beach Boys (2024)
The Beach Boys documentary chronicles the rise of the legendary band, capturing their highs and lows and dripping with songs fueled by the sun-soaked California energy that defines summer.

D23 Gold Member Offer: 10% Off at Wine Bar George, Disney Springs, FL

Wine Bar George
Where: Wine Bar George, Disney Springs
What: 10% Off During Lunch
Expires: April 15, 2025

Led by Master Sommelier George Miliotes, Wine Bar George offers more than 200 wines available by the glass, the bottle, and the ounce. Enjoy wines from acclaimed and well-known wineries as well as growing regions that are up-and-coming!

Whether you are looking for a glass of wine on tap or an ounce of some of the finest wine in the world, we have something for everyone to enjoy. Enjoy alongside a full menu of small plates, cheese and charcuterie, entrees, family style plates, and sweets. The design for Wine Bar George is similar to a winemaker’s home estate with a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere. 

Awarded Best Wine Bar List in the World in 2023 by The World of Fine Wine. 

D23 Gold Members can “sip” back, relax, and enjoy a 10% discount during lunch from opening through 3:00 p.m. daily (excluding tax, gratuity, and alcoholic beverages) at Wine Bar George in Disney Springs.

To redeem your offer in-person, please present a valid D23 Gold Membership card at time of purchase to receive the discount at checkout.

NOTE
Receive 10% off your purchase with valid D23 Gold Membership. Not valid with prior purchases or the purchase of gift cards. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Void where prohibited. Subject to change without notice, You must present a valid D23 Gold Membership card at time of purchase to receive the discount at checkout. Ten percent discount during lunch from opening through 3 p.m. daily (excluding tax, gratuity, and alcoholic beverages). Discount not valid on holidays or merchandise. Valid with D23 Gold Membership Card and photo ID.
Discount not valid on holidays or merchandise.

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Festive Fun Coming to Disneyland Resort This Fall!

By Cecilia Sarantopoulos

As summer officially begins, Disneyland Resort is already casting a spell and turning its gaze toward the fall! The resort has just released exciting details about its upcoming fall celebrations—ensuring guests can look forward to a magical Halloween Time, running from August 23 through October 31, 2024. The festivities of Plaza de la Familia will extend through November 2, 2024, providing ample opportunities to revel in the autumnal enchantment.

Guests will be delighted by the return of the Haunted Mansion Holiday, which will be accessible via a virtual queue system upon its reopening. Inspired by Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas, the attraction features a Jack Skellington takeover with spirited surprises and thrilling twists.

From left to right: Donald Duck, Mickey Mouse, a cast member dressed as a scientist, Minnie Mouse, and Pluto are performing on stage during the Mickey’s Trick and Treat daytime show. Donald is wearing a hairy brown headpiece and a cropped plaid top; Mickey is wearing a tuxedo with a bat-shaped bowtie; Minnie is wearing a blue wizard hat and dress; and Pluto is dressed as a mummy. The stage is filled with neon lights and Halloween decorations, such as candy corn.

A new highlight this year is the debut of Mickey’s Trick and Treat, a daily daytime offering in Disney California Adventure Park, perfect for younger guests and families. This interactive show features Mickey Mouse and friends celebrating a not-so-scary Halloween, complete with spooky tales and the creation of a magical potion.

In an image from Halloween Time at Disneyland Resort, on the left is a tree decorated with purple Christmas lights. On the right, a castle displays Halloween-themed blue, green, and pink projections—including a skeleton and the words “Mister Oogie Boogie.” Lit signs at the bottom of the castle indicate: “All Hallows’ Eve Celebration” and “Carthay Circle Restaurant.”

Mark your calendars and prepare to visit Disneyland.com on June 25 to secure your tickets for the highly-anticipated Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party. At this fun-filled event, guests are invited to wear their Halloween costumes!

A life-size statue of Miguel from Disney and Pixar’s Coco holds a white guitar adorned with blue patterns in his left hand, while extending his right hand toward the camera. He wears a red zip-up jacket with white stripes and blue jeans. Behind him, decorations feature memorabilia of items from the film, such as a photo of Miguel with his grandmother and Aztec marigolds in yellow, orange, and red.

A beloved fall tradition, Plaza de la Familia returns to celebrate Día de los Muertos with refreshed entertainment offerings, Mexican cuisine, and more—all in the spirit of Disney and Pixar’s Coco. Guests can participate in activities such as the Árbol de la Vida (Tree of Life) photo location and the memory wall, honoring the rich cultural heritage of the holiday.

To make the most of the season, guests can take advantage of the limited-time 2024 summer ticket offer, valid for visits through September 26, 2024. This offer allows visitors to enjoy not only the start of fall festivities but also the remaining summer events, including Pixar Fest (through August 4, 2024) and D32 Day at Disneyland Resort on August 8.  

“Beyond Bliss”: The Princess and the Frog Cast Reacts to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

By Zach Johnson

We’re almost there!

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opens Friday, June 28, in Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort and later this year in Disneyland Park at Disneyland Resort, continuing the stories of Princess Tiana, Prince Naveen, Mama Odie, Louis, and more characters from the Walt Disney Animation Studios film The Princess and the Frog.

The voice cast was among the first to experience the thrill ride—and we were among the first to get their reactions.

Here’s what The Princess and the Frog cast had to say about their “wonderful” sneak preview:

The Princess and the Frog cast members Bruno Campos, Keith David, Jennifer Cody, Anika Noni Rose, Jenifer Lewis, Michael-Leon Wooley, and Jim Cummings stand in front of Tiana's Bayou Adventure inside Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort.

Disney Legend Anika Noni Rose (Voice of Princess Tiana)
“It is an amazing thing to have a ride based on something you created. For people to have felt that, ‘Oh, yes, we want this in perpetuity,’ it’s mind-blowing, really.”

 Jenifer Lewis (Voice of Mama Odie)
“I got off and I had to lean on the photographer for strength because I’d held my breath through the whole ride. Two words: beyond bliss. They captured the culture—the food, the music, the rhythm, the levels. Everything was just perfect, and I am honored to be a part of it.” 

Michael-Leon Wooley (Voice of Louis)
“No other ride in this park has Louis the alligator—not only Louis the alligator, but Louis the alligator five or six times. And he’s singing at the end! Like, come on! Take that, TRON!”

The Princess and the Frog cast members Bruno Campos, Keith David, Jennifer Cody, Anika Noni Rose, Jenifer Lewis, Michael-Leon Wooley, and Jim Cummings ride a log flume in Tiana's Bayou Adventure inside Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort.
Jennifer Cody (Voice of Charlotte “Lottie” La Bouff)
“I was blown away. It’s so joyful and full of color. It’s bright and cheery, and [I love] the beautiful flowers and plants. And the music—oh, my gosh! There’s a new song, and the new song is as great as the other songs. It was great going on it with my cast; that was an added bonus, and I wasn’t really aware of how important that was going to be. We had the best time. It’s been 15 years, but when we were all in that log together, someone would start singing one of the songs, and then we’d all come in and sing. We’d hear Jenifer’s character and be like, ‘Everyone look! Don’t miss that!’ We were pointing all the things out together.”

Keith David (Voice of Dr. Facilier)
“It was so fun. We had such a wonderful time [making the film], so why wouldn’t I want to come to this? There’s nothing not to like. It’s a beautiful thing. It’s a really wonderful thing.”

Tap Into Your Emotions with Products from Inside Out 2!

By Summer Fishman

Who’s ready to make a new core memory? It’s time to feel all the feels and look stylish while doing so! Whether you’re cuddling up with Joy, reading with Disgust, or playing with all your emotions with Disney Emoji Blitz, tap into your emotions with your friends from Disney and Pixar’s Inside Out 2!

Dig into your emotions with these awesome products from Disney Store and beyond. And be sure to see the film in theaters on June 14!

  1. Cuddle Up with Your Favorite Emotions!

Whether you need to bring a little Joy into your life, or give Anxiety a reassuring hug,  these soft and cuddly plush inspired by Inside Out 2 will bring you happiness as they go from inside Riley’s head to your heart.

Disney Store Inside Out 2 Plush include:

  1. Inside Out 2 Crossbody Bag

Express your emotions any way you want with this petite crossbody bag from Disney Store featuring a clear front pocket with self-stick fabric patches inside that can be arranged to fit your mood. This cool zip case comes with an adjustable, detachable strap to show your feelings wherever you go!

  1. Inside Out 2 Marble Game

Riley’s ever-changing moods are on a roll with this Marble Run play set inspired by the film. Joy, Disgust, Fear, Sadness, and Anger figurines are among the 93 pieces in this fun set that is assembled to create a colorful course for the marbles. With additional scenic panels and light-up features, it’ll provide an emotional uplift while the marbles travel down. You can find this game at Disney Store as well!

IO2 Loungefly sits on a plain white background. The bag has purple straps, a black base covered with circular images of all nine emotions, and a colorful wheel that features the same characters.

  1. Show Off How You’re Feeling with Loungefly

This simulated leather mini backpack by Loungefly from Disney Store is designed to suit your mood, whatever it happens to be. The novel design features a dial on the front with all the different characters. There’s also an “I feel” arrow at the top, so you can spin the disc around to land on your emotion for the day. It could be Joy, Anger, Sadness, or one of Riley’s new emotions like Embarrassment.

  1. Read About Your New Favorite Feelings from Inside Out 2

 Disney/Pixar Inside Out 2: Go to Sleep, Anxiety! by Luna Chi

Bedtime has never been more fun in this charming picture book inspired by the film.

Disney/Pixar Inside Out 2: All in the Mind by Meredith Rusu

Also based on the film, this humorous and charming middle grade novel retells and expands upon its events!

  1. Play Online with New Emotions!!

We have ALL THE FEELS in Disney Emoji Blitz! The Inside Out 2 Limited Time Clear Event is running now through June 17! Featuring emojis like Joy, Sadness, Anger, Disgust, Fear, and more. Plus, don’t miss out on two brand-new emojis from Inside Out 2: Anxiety and Embarrassment! Download on the App Store here.

Happy racing! Disney Speedstorm’s season 8 is now live, featuring all-new Racers from Disney and Pixar’s Inside Out. Play now!

You can find all these products and more at DisneyStore.com, Disney Books, DisneySpeedstorm.com, and the App Store.

Links to products here*

D23 Preview: Marvel’s Uncle $crooge and the Infinity Dime — “I’ve Got Some Mutt Skulls to Crack!”

By Sohrab Osati

Two months ago, we exclusively revealed three new variant covers for Uncle $crooge and the Infinity Dime #1, helmed by prolific Marvel writer Jason Aaron. Available on comic stands starting on Wednesday, June 19, with covers created by artists Pepe Larraz, Skottie Young, and Frank Miller, Uncle $crooge and the Infinity Dime #1 sees Scrooge embark on a time-honored Marvel adventure as he explores the Multiverse to stop a twisted alternate Scrooge from becoming the all-powerful and incomprehensibly rich Scrooge-Above-All!

So, what kind of adventure can you expect from this "story of the century?" Our friends at Marvel shared this amazing preview with D23 that airdrops you in middle of the action—literally!

Marvel’s Uncle $crooge and the Infinity Dime - page 1 & 2

Uncle $crooge and the Infinity Dime #1 is now available at your local comic book shop. See you there, true believers!

COMIC SHOP LOCATOR

Auli’i Cravalho, the Voice of Moana, Makes Waves (Literally) at Journey of Water

By Zach Johnson

Auli’i Cravalho—who voices Moana in both the Walt Disney Animation Studios’ original 2016 film and its sequel, Moana 2, opening in theaters November 27—recently ventured beyond the reef to Walt Disney World Resort to experience Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana.

“I really, really loved getting to experience this, and I especially love that Moana has found a special home at EPCOT,” Cravalho said. “As someone who works in clean oceans and ka wai ola, or living water, I really appreciate that this experience is also about advocacy and stewardship—and I enjoyed that I could [make water move] for a little bit. Thatwas really cool.”

Auli'i Cravalho poses in front of Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana, at EPCOT.

Located in World Nature at EPCOT, Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana invites guests at Walt Disney World Resort to explore the wonders of water along a lush, self-guided path. The beautifully landscaped walking trail is filled with surprises around every turn, so guests can engage with water in magical ways—just like the wayfinder Moana did with the ocean.

Cravalho didn’t know what to expect from Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana. “I knew Te Fiti would be around there somewhere,” Cravalho said of the island goddess whose heart was stolen by Maui in the original film. “Seeing her come up around the bend brought some tears to my eyes. To see her in real life and not only in animation—to be able to reallysee her glisten in the sun—that was a really special experience for me.”

According to Cravalho, getting to control the water like Moana was surreal.

“I voiced Moana; I didn’t play Moana,” she explained. “This felt different. To be able to make music while ‘playing’ harp strings made out of water, to manipulate the water and make it rise? That’s pretty powerful stuff.”

Cravalho—who lists pickles and turkey legs as her favorite Disney Parks snacks—added she is thrilled to see Moana’s story continue in films, theme park attractions, and beyond. “I’m so grateful for the people who have connected with Moana,” she said. “She’s for everyone who wants to grow, who wants to learn, who wants to journey beyond the reef.”

How Country Bear Musical Jamboree Is Adding a Country Twist to Classic Disney Songs

By Zach Johnson

Guests will be in for a knee-slappin’ good time when the reimagined Country Bear Musical Jamboree opens Wednesday, July 17, at Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort. Inside the rustic Grizzly Hall, Audio-Animatronic®hillbilly bears will perform a medley of original and classic songs that, for the first time, includes a trio of countryfied Disney tunes.

The transformation of Country Bear Jamboree—one of the last attractions Walt Disney personally helped develop—was announced at Destination D23 in September 2023, and Disney Imagineers have been hard at work ever since to revitalize the attraction for guests.

“It was an honor to work on a show with such a legacy. It’s a show that means a lot to a lot of people, including myself,” said Jake Ellis, Principal Audio Media Designer, Walt Disney Imagineering. “One of the first memories I have at Walt Disney World was sitting on my mom’s lap in the back row at Grizzly Hall and watching the Country Bears perform.”

Big Al and Wendell debut costumes for Country Bear Musical Jamboree: an stitched vest and a handkerchief. They are standing on a red carpet in front of a red curtain.

In approaching the refresh, Ellis went on, “We knew that we wanted to keep the ethos of the bears, but we also wanted to rethink the songs in a way that was more diverse and had multigenerational appeal. Where better to look than the Disney catalog for those songs?”

With that in mind, Disney Imagineers turned to a few country music stars, including Mac McAnally for “The Bare Necessities” from The Jungle Book, Emily Ann Roberts for “Try Everything” from Zootopia, and Allison Russel and Chris Thile for “A Whole New World” from Aladdin. The show will feature twangin’ interpretations of Disney songs in various genres of country music, including Americana, bluegrass, pop-country, rockabilly, and more.

Brett Swain, Director of Music Production, The Walt Disney Company, worked with each artist to reinterpret the songs. “He spun them up in this really fun way,” Ellis said. “I’m excited for my 3-year-old son and 4-year-old daughter to sit on my lap so I can introduce them to the Bears in their new form, and we’re excited for guests to experience the show.”

Emily Ann Roberts records "Try Everything" for Country Bears Musical Jamboree.

Roberts, who lends her vocals to Trixie St. Claire, shares his excitement.

“It’s so crazy seeing Trixie singing with my voice coming out,” Roberts said. “It’s something that I never, ever dreamed would be a reality in my life. And she just looks so cute! I could not be more thrilled with how everything turned out, and I’m so honored to be a part of it.”

Roberts’ rendition of “Try Everything” may sound different than the original recording, but its message remains the same. “Y’all can tell by the way I talk that I don’t sound anything like Shakira,” she said with a laugh. “When I was approached to record the song for Country Bear Musical Jamboree, I thought, ‘OK, we’re going to really have to put our East Tennessee into this.’ When I heard the new [country arrangement], it was so easy for me to get in the zone. I was so excited when I got into the studio and everybody told me to just sing it the way I would. I got to lean into my Appalachian and country music roots and just let her fly.”

“It’s been so neat being able to work with all these other incredible folks who are lending their voices and their talents to the Country Bear Musical Jamboree,” Roberts continued. “Everybody brings something different to the table, and that’s what makes it so cool. We have our own influences, and we’re all coming together to make something really special.”

QUIZ: Tell Us Your Favorite Pixar Core Memories, and We’ll Tell You Which Movie to Watch Next

By Cecilia Sarantopoulos

From their unforgettable score to their meaningful insights on life, love, and friendship, Pixar movies have left an indelible mark on our hearts and minds. Each film brims with wisdom and memorable characters that resonate deeply with both the young and the young at heart.

With Inside Out 2 premiering on June 14 and continuing this cherished legacy, what better time than now to discover which Pixar movie perfectly aligns with your favorite core memories of these beloved franchises?

Take our quiz to find out which film you should watch next, based on the Pixar moments that have touched you the most!

You reach for the Kleenex box when this song plays:

You have a soft spot for this parent:

You can’t get enough of this iconic duo:

You dream of one day visiting:

Your partner in crime, without a doubt, is:

This made you hungry:

These two made your standards soar:

The Pixar villain that gave you chills

The character arc that left a mark on you:

This sequel couldn’t have come sooner:

QUIZ: Tell Us Your Favorite Pixar Core Memories, and We’ll Tell You Which Movie to Watch Next
Turning Red

In a scene from Turning Red, Meilin “Mei” Lee, (voiced by Rosalie Chiang) transformed into a red panda, clings desperately to a railing attached to a brick building that is detaching and about to plummet to the ground. Behind the frightened red panda are similar brick buildings and a blue sky with some clouds.

You appreciate the heartfelt and nostalgic moments in Pixar films. Turning Red will resonate with your love for strong emotional connections and coming-of-age stories!
Inside Out 2

In a scene from Inside Out 2, from left to right, Joy (voiced by Amy Poehler), Embarrassment (voiced by Paul Walter), Envy (voiced by Ayo Edebiri), Anxiety (voiced by Maya Hawke), Disgust (voiced by Liza Lapira), Anger (voiced by Lewis Black), Fear (voiced by Tony Hale), and Sadness (voiced by Phyllis Smith) are standing behind the cream Headquarters console. Anxiety stands at the center of the group, nervously glancing toward Disgust, Anger, Fear, and Sadness, who are observing Anxiety with curiosity.

You are drawn to the complexities of emotions and the beauty of personal growth. Inside Out 2 will captivate you with its exploration of the heart and mind. Catch it in theaters on June 14!
Luca

In a scene from the movie Luca, Italian boys Alberto (Jack Dylan Grazer), left, and Luca (voiced by Jacob Tremblay), right, are sitting on wooden planks built in a tree. Both gaze up at the stars, their expressions filled with wonder. Alberto sports a yellow tunic top paired with brown cargo pants, while Luca wears a white checkered flannel top with blue streaks and blue Bermuda shorts. String lights gracefully drape across branches, casting a soft glow. The backdrop showcases a starry night sky overlooking the sea.

You have a love for friendships, adventure, and charming, picturesque settings. Luca will delight you with its story of an unforgettable summer and Luca and Alberto’s friendship!
Soul

In a scene from Soul, Joe Gardner (voiced by Jamie Foxx) stands in front of The Half Note, a jazz club with a green exterior and a red awning. A marquee above the club’s window announces, “Now appearing: The Dorothea Williams Quartet.” Joe is holding a briefcase and pointing up at a neon sign for the club.

You are fascinated by life’s big questions and the journey of self-discovery. Soul will inspire you with its profound exploration of purpose and passion!