A Complete Guide to the 96th Oscars® on ABC, Airing March 10 at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT

By Zach Johnson

Before the 96th Oscars® airs live coast to coast on ABC, get all the details on this year’s ceremony, from the host and the nominees to the presenters and the performers—plus pre- and post-awards coverage featuring all the stars, the fashions, and, of course, the films.

How and when can I watch the Oscars pre-shows?

Leading up to Hollywood’s biggest night, the Good Morning America team will interview Jimmy Kimmel, who will host the show, and Wolfgang Puck, who is crafting the menu for the Governors Ball, the official post-Oscars celebration. GMA‘s Lara Spencer will report from the red carpet on Thursday, March 7, and Friday, March 8, and Whit Johnson will co-anchor the Saturday and Sunday broadcasts of Good Morning America live from Hollywood.

On Friday, March 8, and Monday, March 11, ABC News’ DeMarco Morgan and Eva Pilgrim and chief health and medical correspondent Dr. Jennifer Ashton will originate special editions of GMA3: What You Need to Know from the red carpet and live from the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, respectively. In addition to interviews with Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences CEO Bill Kramer, Jimmy Kimmel Live!‘s Guillermo Rodriguez, and Academy social media ambassador and red carpet correspondent Amelia Dimoldenberg, there will be segments highlighting the Best Costume Design nominees; a tour of the Academy’s museum, library, and archive; and more. In the March 11 broadcast, comedian Roy Wood Jr. will share his takes on all the winners from the big night. Also, on March 8, Linsey Davis will anchor a special edition of ABC News Live Prime live from the red carpet.

ABC News will broadcast Countdown to Oscars: On the Red Carpet Live! on Sunday, March 10, at 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT. The pre-show coverage will begin streaming on ABC News Live at the same time and continue throughout the day until the start of the Oscars ceremony. Davis and Johnson will host live from the red carpet, where they will preview the ceremony and interview nominees and presenters and share an exclusive preview of the Governors Ball. The pre-show will also feature ABC News’ Pilgrim, Morgan, Chris Connelly, Kelley Carter, and Mike Muse, in addition to Variety‘s Clayton Davis and celebrity stylist Joe Zee.

Local red carpet coverage starts Sunday, March 10, at 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT with Countdown to Oscars: On The Red Carpet Live and will continue at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT with On The Red Carpet at the Oscars, hosted by George Pennacchio with Roshumba Williams, Leslie Lopez, and Rachel Brown. Watch all the action from the red carpet live on ABC or stream each show live on OnTheRedCarpet.com or On the Red Carpet’s Facebook and YouTube pages.

At 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT on ABC, Vanessa Hudgens and Julianne Hough will host The Oscars Red Carpet Show, the official lead-in to the 96th Oscars. This will marks Hough’s inaugural year and Hudgens’ third consecutive year hosting the official pre-show. The 30-minute special will highlight Oscar nominees, performers, and presenters, and provide a multi-view experience of the red carpet arrivals, showing viewers every can’t-miss moment from Hollywood’s biggest night. The pre-show is executive produced by David Chamberlin.

Want more Oscars? Tune in to the all-new Oscars On the Red Carpet Encore Unlocked Channel to see memorable moments from years past during the epic celebration that takes place on Hollywood’s biggest night. The fashion, glamour, and star power can currently be streamed for free 24/7—with no sign-in needed—in the ABC app (available on iOS and Android), on ABC.com, or via connected devices using Amazon Fire TV, AppleTV, and Roku.

Jimmy Kimmel is wearing a tuxedo and a bowtie. He is looking at Weird Barbie, played by Kate McKinnon, who is wearing a pink dress with a rainbow splatter print pattern. She is holding a stick and pointing at an Oscarsland board that has posters for the films Anatomy of a Fall, Past Lives, Maestro, Poor Things, Oppenheimer, The Holdovers, Killers of the Flower Moon, and Barbie tacked onto it. The posters are accented by colorful doodles.

When are The Oscars on TV?

Live from the Dolby® Theatre at Ovation Hollywood, the 96th Oscars will take place Sunday, March 10, and air live beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on ABC and in more than 200 territories worldwide. Viewers can also watch on abc.com and the ABC app* by authenticating with their provider. An American Sign Language (ASL) livestream with Deaf Interpreters will accompany the 96th Oscars broadcast, also starting at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.

How else can I get real-time Oscars updates?

GoodMorningAmerica.com, the Good Morning America social media accounts, and ABCNews.com will have live coverage of the red carpet and awards show beginning at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT on March 10. Additionally, ABC Audio will have full coverage of Oscars night. Live reports will be heard throughout the evening on ABC News Radio affiliates across the U.S., along with full audio, video, and written recaps of big moments on March 11.

On the left, Helena Shaw, played by Phoebe Waller-Bridge in Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, climbs inside a fighter jet. In the center, Bella Baxter, played by Emma Stone in Poor Things, wears an ornate costume and reclines on a sofa. On the right, Sergeant Joshua Taylor, played by John David Washington in The Creator, sits in a chair.

Who are this year’s Oscar nominees?

The Walt Disney Company received a combined 20 nominations across its Walt Disney Studios, content brands, and platforms, including 20th Century Studios, Disney+, Hulu, Lucasfilm Ltd., Marvel Studios, National Geographic Documentary Films, Pixar Animation Studios, and Searchlight Pictures. Poor Things leads with 11, followed by The Creator with two. Bobi Wine: The People’s President, Elemental, Flamin’ Hot, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, The Last Repair Shop, Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, and Nǎi Nai and Wài Pó each received one. (See the full breakdown of The Walt Disney Company’s nominations here.) ABC offers a printable ballot so fans can play along and predict who will go home a winner!

Stream select Oscar-nominated films now on Disney+ and Hulu.

How do I play Oscars Pick ‘Em?

Visit abc.com and make at least one pick to get started. Winning picks are worth 10 points, and each pick will lock at the time indicated on the matchup. The grand prize winner will receive an Oscars All-Star Winner prize package: a three-day/two-night trip for two to Los Angeles and tickets to the 2025 Oscars Watch Party at the Academy Museum, plus $5,000. Also, there are 10 first prize packs that each include an official Oscars water bottle, a shirt, a notebook, playing cards, and an embroidered cap. Click here for the official rules.

Who is the hosting the 2024 Oscars?

Emmy® Award-winning late-night talk show host Jimmy Kimmel will once again do the honors, marking his fourth time since 2017. “After his triumphant return to the Oscars stage last year, we are honored to have Jimmy back to guide us through one of the most beloved celebrations in entertainment,” says Craig Erwich, president of ABC Entertainment, Hulu, and Disney Branded Television Streaming Originals. “He is such a valuable member of our Disney family, and we could not be more appreciative of him and his entire team.”

Quips Kimmel, “I always dreamed of hosting the Oscars exactly four times.”

“What sets the Oscars apart from other live events?” Kimmel asks. “Well, it’s not as sweaty as the Super Bowl. It’s classier than any of the other award shows. This is the big one. It’s the granddaddy of them all, and everybody is aware of that and pretty excited to be there.”

Who is presenting at the Oscars?

Mahershala Ali, Emily Blunt, Bad Bunny, Nicolas, Cage, Jamie Lee Curtis, Cynthia Erivo, America Ferrera, Sally Field, Brendan Fraser, Ryan Gosling, Ariana Grande, Chris Hemsworth, Dwayne Johnson, Michael Keaton, Regina King, Ben Kingsley, Jessica Lange, Jennifer Lawrence, Melissa McCarthy, Matthew McConaughey, Kate McKinnon, Rita Moreno, John Mulaney, Lupita Nyong’o, Catherine O’Hara, Al Pacino, Michelle Pfeiffer, Ke Huy Quan, Issa Rae, Tim Robbins, Sam Rockwell, Octavia Spencer, Steven Spielberg, Mary Steenburgen, Anya Taylor-Joy, Charlize Theron, Christoph Waltz, Forest Whitaker, Michelle Yeoh, Ramy Youssef, and Zendaya are all confirmed to present at the Academy Awards®.

Who is performing at the Oscars?

This year’s Best Original Song nominees and performers are as follows:

  • “The Fire Inside” from Flamin’ Hot – Performed by Becky G
  • “I’m Just Ken” from Barbie – Performed by Ryan Gosling and Mark Ronson
  • “It Never Went Away” from American Symphony – Performed by Jon Batiste
  • “Wahzhazhe (A Song for My People)” from Killers of the Flower Moon – Performed by Scott George and the Osage Singers
  • “What Was I Made For?” from Barbie – Performed by Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell

Who is on the Oscars’ creative team?

Showrunner Raj Kapoor is executive producing the ceremony with Molly McNearney and Katy Mullan, with Hamish Hamilton returning to direct for the fourth time. Kenny Gravillis is the creative director; Misty Buckley and Alana Billingsley are the production designers; David Chamberlin is the red carpet show executive producer; and Lisa Love and Raúl Àvila are the red carpet creative consultants. Also returning are co-executive producer Rob Paine; talent producer Taryn Hurd; producers Sarah Levine Hall, Erin Irwin, and Jennifer Sharron; music director Rickey Minor; and lighting designers Bob Dickinson and Noah Mitz.

“Having worked with Raj, Katy, and Hamish on many special and memorable projects over the years, we have full confidence in their vision for the 96th Oscars,” says Rob Mills, Executive Vice President, Unscripted and Alternative Entertainment, Walt Disney Television. “Their creativity, infectious energy, and sincere love for the movies will be the ticket to making this year’s ceremony a night to remember.”

Writers include Jamie Abrahams, Rory Albanese, Amberia Allen, Tony Barbieri, Jonathan Bines, Joelle Boucai, Bryan Cook, Blaire Erskine, Devin Field, Gary Greenberg, Josh Halloway, Eric Immerman, Jesse Joyce, Kimmel, Carol Leifer, Jon Macks, Mitch Marchand, Greg Martin, Jesse McLaren, McNearney, Keaton Patti, Danny Ricker, Louis Virtel, and Troy Walker. “This was an exceptional year for movies,” says McNearney, who returns to executive produce for the second consecutive year. “I’ve watched every single one of them, and I can’t wait to see all of the [nominees] in one room. It’s really exciting to connect with an audience at home, who I believe also felt really joyful watching all of these movies.”

In a scene from the Abbott Elementary episode "Willard R. Abbott," Gregory Eddie, played by Tyler James Williams, sits at a desk and looks at a computer screen. Jacob Hill, played by Chris Perfetti, and Janine Teagues, played by Quinta Brunson, are seated across from him. Jacob is scrolling on his laptop, and Janine is looking at Jacob and smiling.

What’s airing on ABC after the Oscars?

Immediately following the ceremony, ABC will broadcast a new episode of the Emmy-, Golden Globe®-, and Peabody Award-winning comedy Abbott Elementary. In “Willard R. Abbott,” Abbott Elementary is deemed a Philadelphia historical landmark, much to the delight of Ava Coleman (Janelle James) and Janine Teagues (Quinta Brunson) and the chagrin of Barbara Howard (Sheryl Lee Ralph) and Melissa Schemmenti (Lisa Ann Walter). The school plans a celebration honoring its namesake, but not everything goes as planned.

Good Morning America will air its signature “Oscars After Party” on March 11, live from Times Square. It will include post-show updates, as well as Spencer’s backstage interviews.

Meanwhile, Kelly Ripa, Mark Consuelos, and the Live team will work through the Oscars Sunday in preparation for TV’s biggest morning of the year! The fan-favorite After the Oscars special will air live from the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood at 9 a.m. ET/PT on Monday, March 11, and feature unforgettable moments with the winners—captured the moment they walk offstage! Live’s highest-rated show of the year will take place in front of a supersized audience and include musical performances, fashion panels—and much more!

*Livestream on abc.com and the ABC app is available with a participating TV provider account in select markets only. Visit abc.com/faq for details.

Test Your Knowledge to See If You’re an Ultimate D23 Fan

By the D23 Team

This year marks our 15 year anniversary of being the official Disney fan club, and to celebrate, we wanted to test you on your D23 trivia knowledge. Take our quiz to find out where you rank.

What does D23 stand for?

Correct! Wrong!

When was D23 founded?

Correct! Wrong!

How many D23 Expos have occurred in Anaheim, California?

Correct! Wrong!

Which one of these has not been a D23 Event?

Correct! Wrong!

What is Mousequerade?

Correct! Wrong!

How often does the Disney twenty-three publication go out?

Correct! Wrong!

Which country, other than the United States, has hosted three D23 Expos of its own?

Correct! Wrong!

Who was on the very first cover of Disney twenty-three?

Correct! Wrong!

After his announcement of D23’s inception at the Shareholders Meeting on March 10, 2009, Bob Iger appeared on what TV show to share his excitement?

Correct! Wrong!

At D23 Expo 2022, the Walt Disney Archives presented a special exhibition of what Disney artifacts?

Correct! Wrong!

D23 15 Year Trivia Quiz
Ouch. Okay, okay, maybe a couple of the questions were kind of hard. (But, we weren’t trying to make it easy!) How about giving it another go and seeing where you land?
So, slightly below 50%. Okay, we can work with this! Maybe you accidentally clicked on the wrong one, and you’re kicking yourself now. Well, go ahead and give it another go! (We certainly won’t tell anyone.)
You’re right in the middle! This is definitely a good place to land. We’re proud of you! Really! You’ve proven yourself to be a worthy contender for top prize! (But, do you really want to settle for bronze? No? We didn’t think so.)
You might feel like you’re Sharpay (or Ryan) and you’ve bop, bop, bopped your way to the top, but you’re more like Tiana because you’re almost there. She made it, and so can you!
Just like Hercules, you can go the distance, because you just did! Well done! You’ve proven to be the top of the top and a true D23 fan. We salute you!

Splash: Making Waves for 40 Years!

By Christina Pappous and Francesca Scrimgeour, Walt Disney Archives

This week marks the 40th anniversary of the release of Splash on March 9, 1984, when audiences first dove into the adventure-filled story of Madison (played by Daryl Hannah) and Allen Bauer (played by Tom Hanks). As the first film to be released by The Walt Disney Company’s new Touchstone Pictures, Splash was not the typical Disney release, as the film banner would introduce more mature themes than the standard film put out under the Walt Disney banner. The tagline for Splash perfectly captures the tone of the film and its newly formed film label, declaring: “She was the woman of Allen’s dreams. She had large dark eyes, a beautiful smile, and a great pair of fins.”

Speaking of fins, what better way to celebrate this fin-tastic milestone than by showcasing some behind-the-scenes sunken treasure: a mermaid in her natural environment!

An underwater cinematographer, on the left, operating a waterproof camera, films the mermaid Madison (Daryl Hannah), on the right, swimming by a barnacle-encrusted shipwreck on the sandy bottom of the ocean, where corals are growing.
An underwater cinematographer captures Madison (Daryl Hannah) swimming by a shipwreck.

It took more than a little movie magic to show the inquisitive mermaid Madison frolicking around in the reefs and swimming through shipwrecks. Producer Brian Grazer knew that creating a believable underwater world for Madison on film would be a challenge, but he and director Ron Howard decided the most realistic-looking option would be to shoot underwater in The Bahamas. Underwater cinematographer Jordan Klein meticulously mapped out every scene through storyboards to ensure that not a single moment was wasted during the 16 days of filming in the Caribbean waters. The actors underwent a great deal of preparatory training, as they would be diving down some 50 feet below turbulent ocean waves. Additionally, they had to adapt to not using standard diving equipment while in costume.

As the mermaid “who has legs on land, fins underwater, and makes waves wherever she goes,” Daryl Hannah particularly impressed both Howard and Grazer with her natural swimming skills when pre-testing her mermaid tail underwater. Hannah’s natural swimming abilities and aquatic endurance surpassed those of her stunt double. She ultimately agreed to perform all underwater stunts herself, which added more credibility to the film.

Daryl Hannah, in costume as the mermaid Madison, swim though a colorful Bahamian coral reef alongside schools of fish. The surface of the ocean shimmers above her.
Madison (Daryl Hannah) swims though a Bahamian coral reef alongside schools of fish.

While Daryl Hannah found the underwater mermaid sequences to be “magical,” an incredible amount of work had to be done behind the scenes to make it look effortless. Donning Madison’s mermaid tail took around five hours, and during the six-hour stretches of underwater shooting, Hannah had to hold her breath as well as manage her limited movement and vision in the ocean.

Despite those challenges, Hannah proved that she could go the nautical distance, gracefully swimming as far as 120 feet with her mermaid tail. The film’s renowned stunt swimmer, Mike Nomad, recognized that she was at home in the water, even without a mask. Toward the end of filming in the water, Nomad recalled that Hannah “turned to me and said, ‘I don’t know how people can swim with just feet. I’ve gotten so used to the tail that I’ve forgotten how to swim without it.’”

Madison (Daryl Hannah) and Allen Bauer (Tom Hanks) swim side by side far underwater, in the shadow of a tower of Bahamian coral.
Madison (Daryl Hannah) and Allen Bauer (Tom Hanks) swim side by side through Bahamian coral reefs.

By collecting important props, costumes, and documentation from the production of Splash, the Walt Disney Archives plays a significant role in preserving the film’s legacy for future generations to enjoy. After a film wraps production, the Walt Disney Archives typically has the opportunity to acquire iconic objects and materials for reference, preservation, and potential future display.

One such prop that found a home in our collection is Madison’s necklace, pictured in the photograph below and at the top of this story. The necklace is adorned with colorful beads, seahorse charms, and ancient coins along with its focal point: a bronze-colored medallion with a lion’s head.

The necklace worn by Madison (Daryl Hannah), pictured around her neck in the image at the top of this story, is seen here displayed against a white background. The beaded necklace, now in the care of the Walt Disney Archives. is adorned with seahorse charms, and ancient coins, along with a bronze-colored medallion depicting a lion’s head.
The necklace worn by Madison (Daryl Hannah) is now in the care of the Walt Disney Archives.

Happy anniversary to this romantic catch of a film, with its splashes of humor that still give audiences waves of joy to this day—hook, line, and sinker!

Splash (1984) is now available to watch on Disney+ and other streaming and home entertainment platforms.

D23 Gold Member Offer: 20% Off In-Store and Online Purchases at Joffrey’s!

Promotional image for the Disney Specialty Coffee Collection featuring "Sorcerer's Apprentice Mickey Blend" by Joffrey's Coffee & Tea Company. The image showcases the product packaging, which includes a bag of ground coffee and a K-Cup pod, both featuring an illustration of Mickey Mouse dressed as the Sorcerer's Apprentice. The text highlights the medium roast coffee with sweet citrusy notes and a smooth finish.
Where: Disney Springs, Walt Disney World, & Online
What: 20% off In-Store & Online Orders
Expires: December 31, 2024

D23 Gold Members are welcome to brew up some fun and discover the Disney Specialty Coffee Collection at Joffrey’s—in-store and online at Joffreys.com—while enjoying 20% off your order!

Joffrey's Coffee & Tea Co. is the Official Specialty Coffee of Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, and Disney Vacation Club. 

To redeem your offer online, please follow the instructions below:

To redeem your offer in-person, Proof of D23 Gold Membership must be presented at checkout.

NOTE
Valid in-store at Joffrey’s Disney Springs and Walt Disney World locations, and online at Joffreys.com. Not redeemable on gift certificates or previous purchases. D23 Gold Member discount cannot be combined with any other offer or sale items. Enter code at Checkout. Joffrey’s offers free shipping on orders of $60 or more (after discounts) in Continental U.S. Restrictions apply on international shipping. Joffrey’s is not responsible for additional shipping and handling fees including taxes, customs fees, and tariffs. Offer cannot be used on subscription service.

A promotional image for the Disney D23 app. The background is blue with the D23 logo and text that reads "THE OFFICIAL Disney FAN CLUB." The main text says, "TAKE THE MAGIC ON THE GO WITH THE DISNEY D23 APP," written in a casual, playful font. To the right, there is an illustration of a smartphone displaying a D23 Gold Member digital card featuring Mickey Mouse.

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Ahsoka, Andor, and The Mandalorian Headed to Star Tours – The Adventures Continue

By The D23 Team

Attention space travelers! If you’re looking to explore the further reaches of the Star Wars galaxy, we have an exciting transmission for you. Our friends at Disney Parks Blog just announced that Star Tours – The Adventures Continue will be taking us on all-new adventures starting April 5, 2024.  At Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, and Disneyland Paris, guests will soon experience new additions to Star Tours – The Adventures Continue featuring characters and locations from three Disney+ series: Ahsoka, Andor, and The Mandalorian.

Thanks to these additions, there will be a whopping 250 (!!) storyline variations to be experienced during your flights with Star Tours – The Adventures Continue. While you’re en route to your intergalactic destination, you might just get an urgent transmission from Ahsoka Tano herself—or from Cassian Andor... or Din Djarin and Grogu!

See your favorite characters yourself starting April 5 when Disneyland celebrates Season of the Force through June 2, 2024. Besides exploring new Star Tours adventures, you can also enjoy the return of Hyperspace Mountain, feast on Star Wars-inspired food, and enjoy more limited-time intergalactic fun. Debuting during the celebration, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will provide a fresh perspective on the fireworks above Disneyland Park on select nights, with galactic music sweeping through the spires.

Can You Find These 23s In Disney Movies and Series?

By Jocelyn Buhlman

You probably don’t need to guess what our favorite number is here at D23. Named for the year 1923, when Walt Disney founded The Walt Disney Company, D23 has been celebrating Disney fandom since 2009. As we celebrate our anniversary, we thought we’d celebrate by pointing out where you can find our favorite number in these Disney films and series. Good luck—we’re counting on you to ace this search!

1. Monsters, Inc.
This 23 is part of a memorable moment where George Sanderson is decontaminated after entering the Scare Floor with a sock attached to his back. The code for this kind of situation is “2319,” and Pixar fans really scared up some fun with that number, celebrating 2/3/19 as “2319” day.


2. Soul
If there’s one thing Pixar is extremely good at, it’s hiding all kinds of fun shout-outs in the small details. Because of that habit, we see the return of 2319 in 2020’s Soul. When Joe and 22 are in the New York subway, you can spot the number 2319 along the side of a train, referencing the beloved moment from Monster’s Inc. (And our favorite number!)


3. Captain America: Civil War
While many 23s in Disney films are just coincidences we like to spot, this one is an actual shout-out to D23! Kevin Feige revealed this Easter Egg back at D23 Expo 2015, where a “D23” is featured on the cell holding The Winter Solider while being interrogated. We even had a chance to see this Easter egg in person at the Avengers: Infinity War world premiere!


4. The Prestige
This is another “D23” Easter egg, but unlike the one in Captain America: Civil War, this appearance was a happy coincidence. The D23 was part of a prison outfit worn by Christian Bale in Touchstone’s The Prestige! What a magical coincidence that this D23 detail appeared!


5. WandaVision
The very first episode in the Disney+ original series WandaVision features the titular characters puzzling over a marked date on the calendar: August 23! It takes them a long time to figure out what it means, and fans are still puzzling over the larger significance: Is it a comics reference? A shout-out to the 23 Marvel movies released before this series? Personally, we like to think it was a reminder to Wanda and Vision to attend the Disney+ panel at the 2019 D23 Expo, but regardless of what it actually means, we’re just excited to see another 23 in the MCU!


6. Wreck-It Ralph
The Game Central Station sequences in Wreck-It Ralph are chock full of video game Easter eggs and details that fans love to find—but there’s also a hidden 23! Keep an eye out for a group of athletes passing through the station—a baseball player is wearing a number 23 on his jersey!


7.  Star Wars Resistance
This little BB-series astromech droid has a big personality—and a name we’re especially fond of! CB-23 worked with Commander Poe Dameron during the events of the animated series Star Wars Resistance. You can spot her in both seasons of the show helping out Poe, Kaz, and the rest of the ragtag team of rebels on the Colossus.

Herbie—a white love bug painted with red, white, and blue stripes and the number 53—is parked for a pit stop along a chain link fence. Tennessee, in a white jump suit, is running towards the car to service it before it resumes racing.

8. The Love Bug
While Herbie, the zany love bug with a mind of its own, is known for being number 53, that’s not the only significant number in the film. Our speedy hero, Jim Douglas, purchases Herbie from cranky car salesman Peter Thorndyke, but he’s set to pay in installments. After showing off Herbie’s speed and winning the race, Thorndyke offers to buy Herbie back, noting that he practically still owns the car. Douglas has “twenty-three payments to go,” after all. Luckily for Herbie—and us!—Douglas chooses to keep the lively love bug and continue racing to victory.

Christine Palmer, Doctor Strange, and America Chavez stand in a door, cast in purple-hued light. They all are staring in surprise at something just off camera.

9. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness
We were already over the moon seeing the bonafide D23 Easter egg in Captain America: Civil War, but we entered a multiverse of excitement when we watched Doctor Strange’s latest adventure. On the run from Wanda Maximoff, Doctor Strange and America Chavez accidentally teleport to Earth-838, where an alternate universe version of Christine Palmer—Doctor Strange’s former fiancée—apprehends them. As they are visitors from another universe, Palmer holds Doctor Strange and Chavez in custody to be tested before they can walk free in Earth-838. When comparing Doctor Strange’s hand injuries to his 838-counterpart, Palmer shows the injuries on her screen—it’s a quick shot, but pay attention! In the side-by-side of the two Stranges’ injuries, the text for “616 Steven Strange” features a familiar designation beside it… D23!

All hail…the Queens!

By Cecilia Sarantopoulos

We don’t call her Mother Nature for nothing. Premiering on March 4 on National Geographic and March 5 on Disney+ and Hulu, the new documentary series Queens showcases matriarchies and female leaders across the animal kingdom, telling stories of sacrifice, resilience, friendship, and love.

Narrated by the award-winning Angela Bassett, who also serves as an executive producer, this seven-part series utilizes cutting-edge technology to unveil unexpected insights into the ascent of females in the natural world. Often, they rely on strategy and teamwork rather than brute strength to reach the pinnacle of power.

In a scene from Queens, The Team Lioness unit, consisting of five women, are seen walking on the African plain in their traditional garb.

Queens took four years to create and was spearheaded by a production team led by women from around the globe. The final episode of the series, “Behind the Queens,” honors the women who have gone to the ends of the Earth and dedicated their lives to documenting and safeguarding the queens of the animal kingdom.

With meticulous attention to detail, the production team embarked on a journey to showcase the innate drama and intrigue present in the lives of creatures—big and small. “We wanted to give every animal their Hollywood moment and dramatic storylines—from the tiniest ant to the largest elephant,” said showrunner and writer Chloe Sarosh during a panel at the 2024 Winter Television Critics Association press event.

Though immensely fulfilling, filming the wildlife presented its share of obstacles. “We were filming in Ethiopia and war broke out,” recalled director of photography Sophie Darlington. “Another [challenge] was when Faith and I were together in Kenya. We experienced a drought.” Producer and director Faith Musembi emphasized the constant battle against climate and environmental factors. “When you’re dealing with drought or too much rain, that’s a massive challenge,” she said.

Musembi, one of the few Kenyan women in this field, highlighted the lack of opportunities prior to Queens. “Up until Queens, there were no inroads for me to work in this industry because everything is staffed out of English[-speaking] or other Western countries,” she noted, stressing the importance of mentorship and creating opportunities for the next generation of female professionals in Kenya. “[Queens] feels like something that is growing and spreading, and we’re hoping to pass it on,” added executive producer Vanessa Berlowitz.

Documenting wildlife can be not only physically challenging but also emotionally taxing. Queens often explores the pivotal role of motherhood and how, in the animal kingdom, mothers are frequently abandoned by their mates. Though this behavior is not uncommon, it still obliges mothers to fulfill a variety of roles: nurturer, hunter, provider, and protector.

In a scene from Queens, a female brown bear is followed by her three cubs across the mudflats at low tide. A flat, blue ocean stretches out behind them.

In an episode of Queens, a mother bear is injured, significantly reducing her ability to hunt for her cubs and protect them. “The moms are their [cubs’] only protection and source of life,” said cinematographer Erin Ranny. At times, the weight of motherhood became overwhelming for the animals, and the Queens crew witnessed moments when the mothers couldn’t fulfill their role as protectors. “There’s a lot of emotion and stress in telling those life-or-death situations, especially if you get attached to the animals,” Ranny said.

Queens also emphasizes the importance of storytelling in fostering empathy for often-misunderstood creatures, such as hyenas. By humanizing their experiences and highlighting their struggles and triumphs, the show sought the bridge the gap between the natural world and the human experience, sparking wonder and appreciation for the diversity of life on Earth.

In a scene from Queens, the gelada sisterhood of primates sits together, looking at the camera.

Queens aims to inspire action and encourage viewers to become stewards of the planet, ensuring a future where all queens, both animal and human, can thrive.

Downloadable: Show Off Your D23 Pride With These FAN-tastic Phone Wallpapers

By the D23 Team

This month and all year long, we are celebrating 15 fan-tastic years of the most magical part of Disney: YOU! As a D23 Member, you are the Ultimate Disney, Pixar, Star Wars, and Marvel fan… and as such, you deserve the most magical phone wallpapers possible!

Show off your fandom with these brand-new wallpapers and flaunt your membership status or your favorite character from this year’s Gold Member Collector Set, the Magic & Mystery Box!

15% Off for D23 Gold Members at Stance

Stance
Where: Stance, Disney Springs
What: 15% Off
Expires: April 15, 2025

Step into Stance at Disney Springs and receive 15% off full price items when proof of D23 Gold Membership is presented.

To redeem your offer in-person, please follow the instructions below:

Show proof of D23 Gold Membership at checkout. Please note that sale items are excluded. 

NOTE
Proof of D23 Gold Membership is required. Stance is not responsible for redeeming discounts if customer does not show proof of membership at checkout. Stance will not do returns of discount amount after transactions have been completed. This promotion is only valid at Stance Disney Springs, Florida location. Sale items are excluded. Other exclusions apply. 

 

A promotional image for the Disney D23 app. The background is blue with the D23 logo and text that reads "THE OFFICIAL Disney FAN CLUB." The main text says, "TAKE THE MAGIC ON THE GO WITH THE DISNEY D23 APP," written in a casual, playful font. To the right, there is an illustration of a smartphone displaying a D23 Gold Member digital card featuring Mickey Mouse.

Access Your D23 Benefits Anytime, Anywhere
With the Disney D23 app, your membership card is just a few taps away.
Access your benefits from your phone!

2024 Collector Set

Get More Disney With D23 Gold Membership
Enjoy exclusive discounts and access to special events and merch.
Also includes our quarterly publication and annual Collector Set.

BECOME A GOLD MEMBER

D23 Gold Member Offer at The Viv Hotel, Anaheim: Enjoy Room and Restaurant Discounts, Along With a Special Gift!

The Viv Hotel
Where: The Viv Hotel
What: Room & Restaurant Discounts
Expires: December 31, 2024

We are excited to share a D23 Gold Member Offer at one of the Disneyland® Resort Good Neighbor Hotels: The Viv Hotel, Anaheim, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel—a short distance from Disneyland Resort where the magic is within reach! 

D23 Gold Members are eligible for an 18% discount on their reservations and will receive a D23 Gold Member Pin at check-in.                                                                                                                                                                                                           

D23 Gold Members will also receive a year-round 10% discount off food items at Valencia’s at The Viv, and Top of The V restaurants.

“From the spark of social cocktails at The Top of The V to settling in for a day at the Oasis Pool, The Viv Hotel Anaheim is a buzzing atmosphere for people that seek more from spontaneous and scheduled experiences alike.”

This amazing VIP Experience will include:

  • 18% off room reservations*
  • 10% discount off food items at Valencia’s at The Viv, and Top of The V restaurants
  • D23 Gold Member Pin at check-in
  • Self-Parking reduced to $28.00 plus tax per day, regularly $38.00

To redeem your offer, please follow the instructions below:

When making online reservations, select “Corp/Promo Code” under special rates and enter your D23 Gold Member Code to receive your discounted rate.

NOTE
Reservations must be made prior to December 31, 2024. Must complete stay by December 31, 2024.
Destination Fee can be waived at check in if the D23 Member would like to opt out. Regularly $25.00 plus tax per night.
The Destination Fee includes:

  • Daily Enhanced High-Speed Internet Access per room per night.
  • A daily $25 food and beverage credit.
  • 2 Hour bicycle rentals for up to 2 people per room per day.
  • 2 Cocktails or mocktails offered daily from 4:00pm–6:00pm at Valencia’s bar located on the lobby floor.
  • Destination Disney® Amenity per stay: 2 Disney® labeled and branded refillable water bottles, 1 travel-sized sunscreen, 2 Disney® key chains, and 2 Disney drawstring bags.
  • Bonvoy Elite Members Gold and above receive specialty coffee for up to 2 guests per room in the Melody’s Marketplace daily.

*Blackout Dates as Follows:

  • March 12–17, 2024
  • August 4–11, 2024
  • September 9–12, 2024
A promotional image for the Disney D23 app. The background is blue with the D23 logo and text that reads "THE OFFICIAL Disney FAN CLUB." The main text says, "TAKE THE MAGIC ON THE GO WITH THE DISNEY D23 APP," written in a casual, playful font. To the right, there is an illustration of a smartphone displaying a D23 Gold Member digital card featuring Mickey Mouse.

Access Your D23 Benefits Anytime, Anywhere
With the Disney D23 app, your membership card is just a few taps away.
Access your benefits from your phone!

2024 Collector Set

Get More Disney With D23 Gold Membership
Enjoy exclusive discounts and access to special events and merch.
Also includes our quarterly publication and annual Collector Set.

BECOME A GOLD MEMBER