From a Relaxing Float to a Refreshing Soak—9 Water Rides Perfect for a Summer Day

July 26, 2019

By Savannah Salazar

Summer is still in full swing, which makes the warm days perfect for exploring the various water rides of Disney parks! We’ve rounded up some great attractions to help guide your summer day at the parks, whether you desire to get totally soaked, somewhat splashed, or just enjoy a leisurely cruise down a river. Oh, and while we did our best in gauging how wet you may get: All experiences may vary!

You May Get Soaked
For the hottest of days, these water attractions are available for immediate cool-downs.

Splash Mountain at Disneyland
The most hare-raising, splash-inducing attraction at Disneyland Park, you will surely get wet. The popular mountain ride invites guests to hop inside a log and float along while following Br’er Rabbit on his way to his laughing place. The colorful journey featuring fun Audio-Animatronics® characters and memorable songs leads to an exhilarating five-story drop finale. Everyone is sure to get at least a little wet but opt for sitting in the front if you really want to get soaked.

Kali River Rapids at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
This attraction at Disney’s Animal Kingdom sweeps you away on an exciting adventure through the jungles of Asia. From rapids to waterfalls to raging currents and a 20-foot plummet, the rotating 12-seat vehicle guides guests through the choppy Chakrandi River. When it comes to this ride, expect to get pretty wet.

Casey Jr. Splash ‘N’ Soak Station at Magic Kingdom
True to its name, this water play area is great for a good soak—and it’s a perfect way for kids of all ages to beat the heat. The tops of circus trains blow out streams of water along with the monkeys, elephants and camels (oh my…) may spray water onto visiting guests. It’s up to you how wet you get in this play area.

You May Get Wet

From a light mist to some splashes here or there, here are a few attractions that can hopefully make you forget about the July heat.

Pirates of the Caribbean at Disneyland Paris
The beloved attraction immerses you in a pirate’s life—from sailing into the crosshairs of cannon fire, a fiery port full of scalawags and buccaneers to a ghoulish encounter with a skeletal foe. As with any swashbuckling adventure ’cross the sea, brace yourselves for the unpredictable waters, which could mean sailing down small waterfalls that may or may not splash your boat…

Aquatopia at Tokyo DisneySea
At Port Discovery in Tokyo DisneySea, you can glide across the waters in a three-person watercraft. Twirling, swirling, and spinning, your hydro-glider vehicle dodges a maze of fountains and whirlpools. You likely won’t get fully soaked, but look out for the dancing spouts of water and fountains around you. The wet version of Aquatopia is available all summer long, from now through September 30.

Frozen Ever After at Epcot
Imagine how much cooler you’ll be while enjoying Frozen Ever After, a journey across Arendelle! Once aboard, you’ll sail along through the story of Anna and Elsa, voyaging from a frozen willow forest to Troll Valley to Elsa’s dazzling ice palace before plunging down a small waterfall. You may get a little wet but a little water never bothered us anyway.

Just Around the River Boat Ride

Maybe getting wet isn’t totally your thing, but floating on a leisurely boat ride might do the trick on a hot summer’s day.

Na’vi River Journey at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Animal Kingdom’s land, Pandora – The World of Avatar, features one of the most impressive Audio-Animatronics® in Walt Disney Imagineering history. The Na’vi Shaman of Songs is a centerpiece of the astonishing visual wonder of the Na’vi River Journey attraction. Explore the bioluminescent forests and exotic plants and animals of Pandora while you float on this mystical boat ride.

Voyage to the Crystal Grotto at Shanghai Disneyland
This enchanting display of music, light, and wonder is Shanghai Disneyland’s celebration of classic Disney stories. The whimsical boat ride takes guests on a journey past sculpture gardens and amazing water displays featuring Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Fantasia, Tangled, Mulan, and The Little Mermaid.

Jungle River Cruise at Hong Kong Disneyland
Only on this daring attraction will you be whisked away to the remote Rivers of Adventure, encountering roaming wildlife and wise-cracking skippers in just around eight minutes! During your voyage, you probably won’t get wet but watch out for playful elephants, poison darts ricocheting on the water and the treacherous trek through the legendary Canyon of the Gods.

5 Times Tom Hanks was Part of an Iconic Disney Duo

July 26, 2019

By Beth Deitchman

Thirty years ago today, officer Scott Turner found himself paired with an unlikely new partner—a strong and silent type, with a tendency to drool—in Turner and Hooch, Touchstone’s 1989 action-comedy about an affable detective and a massive, messy, ill-mannered dog. Tom Hanks starred as the human member of this mismatched pair; he shared the screen with the charismatic Beasley, a Dogue de Bordeaux—a breed regarded by the American Kennel Club as “of considerable courage,” not to mention “famously loyal, affectionate, and protective.” We were immediately smitten with the slobbery pooch, but it took a little longer for Scott to overlook some of Hooch’s quirks, which included chewing on furniture and barking all night. And did we mention the drool?

As Hooch proved himself to be both crack crimefighter and man’s best friend in every sense of the word, he won his way into Scott’s heart. Their bumpy road to friendship was a ride that still delights us 30 years later—and Turner and Hooch are just one of several beloved Disney duos to feature beloved actor Tom Hanks. Here are some of our other favorites:

Splash (1984)—Allen and Madison
Five years before Turner and Hooch, Touchstone released its first feature, Splash, which starred Hanks as Allen, a purveyor of produce in New York City, and Daryl Hannah as Madison, a woman unlike anyone Allen has ever encountered—in no small part because she’s a mermaid. The couple has a fin-tastic connection: They meet briefly as children and reconnect as adults when the mermaid saves Allen from nearly drowning in Cape Cod. Madison, whose tail gives way to legs when she’s on land, follows Allen back to New York where they fall in love over “six fun-filled days” and where the mermaid famously takes inspiration from a street sign when it comes to choosing a human name for herself. Their wildly different backgrounds aren’t the only obstacles that threaten to keep Allen and Madison apart. They also have to contend with scientists who are determined to study the mermaid. “All my life, I’ve been waiting for someone, and when I find her, she’s a fish,” says Allen, of this star-crossed romance.

Toy Story (1995)—Woody and Buzz
“This town ain’t big enough for the two of us.” It’s one of the catchphrases heard throughout the Toy Story movies from everyone’s favorite cowboy, Woody (voiced by Hanks), and lucky for us, Andy’s room was more than big enough for a toyful twosome. Woody and Buzz Lightyear (voiced by Tim Allen) couldn’t have been more opposite when they met: Woody was a soft, huggable pull-string toy, a sheriff out to stop varmints from poisoning the water hole and other nefarious deeds, with a trusty horse that was ready to be summoned at a second’s notice. In the beginning, Buzz couldn’t conceive of himself as a toy. Rather, he was a space ranger on a mission to protect the galaxy from the evil Emperor Zurg, armed with a blaster, the ability to fly, and super-cool sound effects. But nothing brings together playthings like a shared love for their kid. Woody and Buzz’s rivalry evolved into a close friendship that will endure “to infinity and beyond.”

Saving Mr. Banks (2013)—Walt Disney and P.L. Travers
There’s so much Disney magic to be found on screen in the 1964 film Mary Poppins that it’s surprising to think that Walt Disney and P.L. Travers didn’t see eye to eye on the film from the outset. Walt Disney, as played by Tom Hanks in Saving Mr. Banks, spent years pursuing the rights to P.L. Travers’ book. The curmudgeonly author was just as determined to avoid seeing her beloved nanny co-opted by a Hollywood production. The stunning 2013 film goes behind the scenes on the Burbank Studio lot—and also features a pivotal trip to Disneyland for Walt and Travers—as the two talented creators come to discover that they may have more in common than they realize. “George Banks and all he stands for will be saved,” says Walt, in his effort to persuade Travers to entrust him with Mary Poppins. “Maybe not in life, but in imagination. Because that’s what we storytellers do. We restore order with imagination. We instill hope again and again and again.”

Toy Story 4 (2019)—Woody and Bo Peep
The newest Toy Story adventure has given us one of our new favorite pairings: Woody and “the toy that got away,” Bo Peep. For years, Bo was right down the hall in Andy’s house, in charge of the toys in Molly’s room and part of a treasured lamp that provided comfort and reassurance to Andy’s sister at bedtime… until Molly outgrew her fear of the dark, and the lamp and Bo were cast aside. When chance brings Bo back into Woody’s life, both toys are struck to realize how much they’ve missed each other while their journeys have taken them on divergent paths. Bo has embraced life as “a lost toy” and has taken control of her own destiny, while Woody has stayed faithful to what he believes to be a toy’s true purpose: loving and supporting a kid. “You can’t teach this old toy new tricks,” says Woody to Bo in Toy Story 4. See the film, in theaters now, to find out for yourself whether that’s truly the case.

Disney Junior Delivers More Muppet Babies—Plus More in News Briefs

July 26, 2019

By Courtney Potter

Go back to the playroom with another season of the Emmy® Award-winning animated series, and make sure you’re up to date on all things Marvel and Comic-Con… Read more, along with other news from around Disney, in this week’s news briefs!

Disney Junior’s Muppet Babies Renewed for Third Season

They’re Muppet Babies and—as the theme song says—they make their dreams come true. Now, they’re making our dreams come true by coming back for a third season on Disney Junior!

Ahead of its official second-season debut on Friday, August 9, at 8:30 a.m. (with a special preview on DisneyNOW on Friday, August 2), the good folks at Disney Junior announced that the Emmy® Award-winning series will be returning for a third season. The show—which chronicles the hilarious playroom antics of a young Kermit the Frog, Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Gonzo, Animal, and new-to-the-Muppets-gang Summer Penguin—currently ranks as Disney Channel’s No. 1 series among kids ages 2 to 8.

Season Two of Muppet Babies will see even more beloved Muppets make their way to the playroom for all-new adventures… including brother and sister duo Scooter and Skeeter; fuzzy, funny Sweetums; and the legendary Swedish Chef, to name but a few. Other special guest appearances include Rizzo the Rat’s popstar brother, Vinny, and Mr. Manny—who comes to fill in for Miss Nanny when she goes out for the day.

Wanna see these adorable Muppet kidlets in person this winter? Muppet Babies will be featured in the all-new Disney Junior Holiday Party! On Tour, debuting Friday, November 1, with several stops at venues across the country. Visit DisneyJuniorTour.com for more info.

Save the Date!
Be sure to mark these upcoming Disney events on your calendar:

D23 and Walt Disney Archives
July 26, 2019
D23 Member Mixer—Seattle
August 23-25, 2019
D23 Expo 2019
September 9, 2019
The Official Walt Disney Studios Tour—Presented by D23
January 17, 2020
Get VIP Tickets to Disney’s Frozen The Hit Broadway Musical
Parks
August 16, 20, 23, 27, 30; September 2, 6, 8, 10, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 27, 29; October 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24, 25, 27, 29, 31, 2019
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom park
August 29, 2019
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Opening at and Walt Disney World Resort
August 29—November 23, 2019, 2019
November 8, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21, 22, 24; December 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22, 2019
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom park
2019 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
September 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 29, 2019; October 1, 3, 6, 8, 10, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 27, 29, 31, 2019
Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party at Disney California Adventure park
2019 Epcot International Festival of the Holidays
November 8, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21, 22, 24, 2019; December 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22, 2019
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom park
November 29—December 30, 2019, 2019
2019 Epcot International Festival of the Holidays

Studios
October 18, 2019
Maleficent: Mistress of Evil opens in U.S. theaters
November 22, 2019
Frozen 2 opens in U.S. theaters
December 20, 2019
Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker opens in U.S. theaters
Television
August 2, 2019
Descendants 3 premieres on Disney Channel and DisneyNOW (8 p.m. EDT/PDT).
August 9, 2019
Muppet Babies kicks off season two on Disney Channel (8:30 a.m. EDT/PDT)

All the Marvel News You’ve Just Gotta Know from San Diego Comic-Con

Even if you were vacationing in a tropical, far-flung locale these last few weeks (and if you were, we’re jealous!), you probably heard that A) San Diego Comic-Con just thrilled hundreds of thousands of pop culture fans for three full days, and B) Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige announced a veritable plethora of earth-shattering Marvel Cinematic Universe news. Read up on all things MCU right here at D23.com!

Disney Channel Announces The Curse of Molly McGee

Disneyland park may have “999 happy haunts,” but Disney Channel will soon have a haunt of their own… only this time, he’s on the grumpy side. Just this week, the channel announced The Curse of Molly McGee—a brand-new animated series from Emmy® Award-winners Bill Motz and Bob Roth (LEGO Star Wars: The Freemaker Adventures) and fellow Emmy winner Steve Loter (Kim Possible). This sure-to-be-hilarious “buddy comedy” follows Molly, a bubbly tween who lives to make the world a better place, and Scratch, whose joy comes from, well, spreading misery… When one of Scratch’s spells backfires, he finds himself forever cursed in Molly’s presence. Look for more info on this new series soon!

But that’s not the only news out of Disney Television Animation this week: The studio also just added a slew of world-class talent—including animation creators and artists Bruce Smith (The Proud Family), Kate Kondell (The Pirate Fairy), Stevie Wermers and Kevin Deters (Prep & Landing), Amy Higgins (Star vs. The Forces of Evil), Steve Marmel (The Fairly OddParents), and many more—to its already fabulous roster. We can’t wait to hear about all the new animated content to come.

Soaring: Fantastic Flight Now Open at Tokyo DisneySea

There’s a brand-new attraction at Tokyo DisneySea, and it’s sure to put some air under your proverbial wings! Based on the popular attraction Soarin’ Around the World, Soaring: Fantastic Flight features all-new scenes and visuals for an incredible experience exclusive to Tokyo Disney Resort… Guests on Soaring: Fantastic Flight embark on a journey over famous landscapes around the world, with the breezes and scents to match each scene. Rika Kihira, a Japanese professional figure skater who knows what it’s like to “soar” in real life, was on hand to help Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse open the new attraction.

Soaring: Fantastic Flight also features the breathtaking Museum of Fantastic Flight, nestled in the hills of Mediterranean Harbor (one of the beautiful ports at Tokyo DisneySea), amidst the backdrop of an old-world Italian village. Dedicated to humankind’s enduring dream of flying, the museum celebrates Camellia Falco—a visionary innovator in the fledgling field of aviation—with a special retrospective of her life.

Also now open at the Hangar Stage in Lost River Delta is the brand-new Song of Mirage show, which features Mickey Mouse and his pals on an adventure to discover the Rio Dorado (that’s Spanish for “golden river”) and its legendary city of gold.

Should you be lucky enough to be traveling to the Tokyo Disneyland Resort soon, don’t miss these amazing new additions!

The Rocketeer Animated Series—Big Casting News!

We’re huge fans of The Rocketeer ’round these parts… so when we heard that Disney Junior would be premiering an animated series based on the 1991 film, we were happily gobsmacked! And just last week—at the Disney Television Animation panel on the first day of San Diego Comic-Con—some very special members of the show’s voice cast were announced. See the cool folks we’re alluding to by clicking here.

Sofia Carson Roars into the Pride Lands with Spanish-Language “Circle of Life”

If you’re up on all things The Lion King—and if you read D23.com with any regularity, we know you are!—you’ll remember that one of the film’s stars, multi-hyphenate Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, curated a very cool album inspired by the film called The Lion King: The Gift. And that’s on top of the film’s official soundtrack, which features tunes including “Hakuna Matata” sung by Seth Rogen as Pumbaa, Billy Eichner as Timon, and Donald Glover as Simba.

Well, this embarrassment of musical riches continues: For the film’s original soundtrack for Latin America, there’s a brand-new track sung by none other than Descendants star Sofia Carson—and it was just released to the public today! Take a look and listen to “El Ciclo Sin Fin” (yes, it’s a Spanish-language version of “Circle of Life”) by checking out the clip, above. And congrats to Sofia for joining the Lion King “familia”!

Kick It Up with DescenDANCE Party at Disney Springs

Speaking of Descendants, the “trequel” of the popular Disney Channel Original Movie series debuts in just a few days… and our pals at Walt Disney World Resort have announced a special event to celebrate all things VK (that’s “villain kids,” dontcha know). The Disney DescenDANCE Party will begin rocking the Marketplace Stage at Disney Springs this Friday, July 26—and it’ll make you feel “Rotten to the Core” (in a good way!) through August 11.

Guests at the Disney DescenDANCE Party can boogie down to some wickedly good beats; snap and share pics at several cool photo ops; and even catch some on-screen shout-outs from stars of the movie! And guess what? In case you can’t make it to Disney Springs before August 11, you have even more time to rock out with the VKs when the dance party takes over the stage at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, beginning August 16.

And don’t forget: Descendants 3 premieres on Friday, August 2, at 8 p.m.—only on Disney Channel!

Bust a Move, Because ABC’s Hit Shows Are Coming to D23 Expo 2019

July 25, 2019March 31, 2020

By D23 Team

Are you ready to get your feet tapping and your legs moving at D23 Expo 2019? Well, we certainly hope you are, because ABC is bringing their biggest stars of comedy, action, and dance competition to Anaheim this August.

You can be among the first to learn the secrets of what lies ahead on ABC’s hit series Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., take a peek behind the curtain of Dancing with the Stars’ Disney Night, and travel to the “ish” universe with black-ish.

Take a look at all the exciting panels and presentations ABC is bringing to D23 Expo, and who you have a chance of meeting!

Dancing with the Stars and Disney!
Friday, August 23, 10 a.m., D23 Expo Arena
Good Morning America’s Ginger Zee hosts a behind-the-scenes peek into the most magical night in the ballroom: Disney Night! Join Zee, show host Tom Bergeron, Mirrorball champions Rashad Jennings and Jordan Fisher, and Dancing with the Stars executive producer Andrew Llinares for a celebration of the Dancing with the Stars and Disney connection. There may even be a hint at what’s to come on Dancing with the Stars 2019 this fall on ABC.

Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.
Friday, August 23, 3 p.m., D23 Expo Arena
Stars and executive producers from ABC’s Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. come together to honor the past six seasons of the show while looking forward to the forthcoming thrilling conclusion of the series in summer 2020. Executive producer and head of Marvel Television, Jeph Loeb, will host the presentation with cast members Clark Gregg and Jeff Ward as well as executive producers Jed Whedon, Maurissa Tancharoen, and Jeff Bell.

The “ish” Universe: black-ish, grown-ish and mixed-ish
Saturday, August 24, 3 p.m., D23 Expo Arena
Headlined by Anthony Anderson, Tracee Ellis Ross, Yara Shahidi, and Tika Sumpter, the stars from ABC’s black-ish, Freeform’s grown-ish, and ABC’s newest spinoff mixed-ish come together to highlight the expanding “ish” universe. Fans won’t want to miss this star-studded panel where anything could happen!

Following is the full schedule* of stars making special appearances in the Walt Disney Television booth throughout the weekend:

Friday, August 23
2–3 p.m.
Dancing with the Stars stars past and present Ginger Zee, Carrie Ann Inaba, Tom Bergeron, Rashad Jennings, and Jordan Fisher

5–6 p.m.
Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. stars Clark Gregg, Ming-Na Wen, Chloe Bennet, Elizabeth Henstridge, and Jeff Ward, and executive producers Jed Whedon, Maurissa Tancharoen, Jeff Bell, and Jeph Loeb

Saturday, August 24
1–2:30 p.m.
black-ish, grown-ish, and mixed-ish stars to be announced.

*Schedule and participants subject to change.

Single-day tickets for Friday and Sunday of D23 Expo 2019 are available for $89 for one-day adult admission and $69 for children 3-9. Gold Members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club can purchase tickets for $79 for a one-day adult admission and $59 for children 3-9. Single-day Saturday tickets and three-day passes are sold out. For more information on tickets and D23 Expo 2019, visit www.D23Expo.com.

Be a Part of the First-Ever Official D23 Expo Cosplay Photo Shoots

July 24, 2019

by Karina Schink

Cosplayers assemble!

Did we get your attention?

Whether you’re Disneybounding, or going head-to-toe as your favorite Disney, Star Wars, Marvel, or Pixar character (or dare we suggest a crossover?), we want to see your looks! And, better yet, we know you want to show them off.

This year at D23 Expo 2019, we’re excited to announce that D23 will host four Cosplay Photo Shoots* over the Expo weekend! All you need is your best look, and a ticket to D23 Expo 2019. Check out the full schedule below, join us at the fountain outside the Anaheim Convention Center, and make sure you’re dressed to the nines because all Expo attendees are welcome to participate!

Friday, August 23
1 p.m.—Marvel Cosplay Photo Shoot

5:15 p.m.—Star Wars Cosplay Photo Shoot

Saturday, August 24
1:30 p.m.—Disney Heroes & Villains Cosplay Photo Shoot

Sunday, August 25
1:30 p.m.—Disney Parks & Princesses Cosplay Photo Shoot

*D23 Expo 2019 admission required

The Most Memorable Moments from San Diego Comic-Con 2019

July 23, 2019July 23, 2019

By Jim Frye

San Diego Comic-Con celebrated its 50th year this past weekend, drawing fans from across the world with panels and events spotlighting TV, movies, comic books, and all aspects of pop culture. The brands of Disney—Marvel, Lucasfilm, ABC, FX, Fox, Disney Channel, and National Geographic—showed up in force, producing some of the biggest and most exciting moments of the convention. There’s no way to feature everything, but here’s just a sample of the excitement.

Walt Disney Television

ABC kicked off the action on Thursday, the first day of Comic-Con, with the all-star Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. panel, taking place in the 6,500-seat Hall H. Jeph Loeb, executive producer and Marvel’s head of Television, moderated the panel that included actors Clark Gregg, Ming-Na Wen, Chloe Bennet, Elizabeth Henstridge, Iain De Caestecker, Henry Simmons, Natalia Cordova-Buckley, and Jeff Ward, along with executive producers Maurissa Tancharoen, Jed Whedon, and Jeff Bell. The panel was a look back and a celebration of the show, featuring video clips showcasing some of the biggest and most memorable moments of the series. And even though the long-running series—Marvel’s longest, actually—is ending its run after the upcoming seventh season, the cast and producers promised an exciting ride and epic conclusion that fans will love.

ABC’s soon-to-premiere new drama Stumptown, staring Cobie Smulders, (who also portrays agent Maria Hill of S.H.I.E.L.D. for Marvel Studios) and based on a graphic novel about a bold private investigator in Portland, Oregon, also hosted a panel on Thursday, including cast members Smulders, Jake Johnson, Michael Ealy, Camryn Manheim, Tantoo Cardinal, Cole Sibus, and Adrian Martinez, with executive producer Jason Richman and Stumptown graphic novel author Greg Rucka.

But ABC wasn’t done! It also brought the cast and producers from shows The Rookie—with perennial fan-favorite Nathan Fillion and showrunner Alexi Hawley—and brand-new series Emergence, with stars Allison Tolman, Alexa Swinton, Owain Yeoman, Ashley Aufderheide, Robert Bailey Jr., Zabryna Guevara, Donald Faison and Clancy Brown, as well as executive producers Michele Fazekas and Tara Butters.

Thursday morning also saw the return of the DuckTales panel, its theme song woo-ooing loud-and-clear above the commotion of the convention! But in addition to cast members Paget Brewster (Della Duck), Bobby Moynihan (Louie Duck), Ben Schwartz (Dewey Duck), and Kate Micucci (Webby Vanderquack), fans were treated to a huge surprise appearance by Lin-Manuel Miranda, the multi-talented Broadway sensation (and star of Mary Poppins Returns) who voices Gizmoduck/Fenton Crackshell. It caused enough of a ruckus to ruffle the most dignified duck’s feathers.

Fox and FX delivered laughs and chills in droves in San Diego with their panels and off-site activation events. The nearly impossible-to-get-into Bob’s Burgers panel (the line of wannabe-attendees stretched all the way down the waterfront behind the Convention Center!) shoveled out laughs by the barrel, with creator/executive producer Loren Bouchard and executive producer Nora Smith previewing the upcoming season, along with actors H. Jon Benjamin, Dan Mintz, John Roberts, Kristen Schaal, Larry Murphy, and Megan Mullaly.

After the Bob’s Burgers panel concluded, H. Jon Benjamin returned to the stage as the star-voice actor for the immediate next panel, Archer, FXX’s award-winning animated comedy series, now in its 10th season. After a sneak peek of a season 10 episode, fans were treated to a hilarious Q&A with the voice cast, including Benjamin, Aisha Tyler, Jessica Walter, Chris Parnell, Judy Greer, Amber Nash, and Lucky Yates, plus executive producers Matt Thompson and Casey Willis.

Other popular shows spotlighted at Comic-Con, included Fox’s Family Guy and The Orville, both with executive producer Seth MacFarlane and cast. And the intriguing documentary-style comedy series about vampires called What We Do in the Shadows on FX showed up for its first appearance.

In addition to the panels, major off-site activation experiences were created to promote these series. The Orville Experience offsite museum had props, costumes, models, and more. The Fox Fan Fair featured free carnival games, super-sized lawn games, an ice cream truck, and a hulking 70-foot ferris wheel, all themed to The Simpsons, Bob’s Burgers, and Family Guy. The massive FX Fearless Forum installation featured activations for It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Archer, and What We Do in the Shadows at a space adjacent to the Convention Center.

MARVEL

Heading into the weekend, all eyes were on Marvel, and the House of Ideas didn’t disappoint! The Saturday night unveiling of Marvel Studios’ next two years of films was the undisputed king of the con. Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige presided over the 90-minute extravaganza with special guests that included Angelina Jolie, Benedict Cumberbatch, Jeremy Renner, Chris Hemsworth, and Mahershala Ali. From films Thor: Love and Thunder and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, to Disney+ series WandaVision and The Falcon and The Winter Soldier—not to mention the surprise announcement of the film Blade!—Marvel Studios’ panel completely dominated Saturday night.

Immediately following the panel, Feige discussed one of the marquee announcements of the night—the new film Black Widow! “It’s a remarkably unique story,” he said. “People think they know everything there is to know about the Black Widow, but I promise you they do not.” The Black Widow herself, Scarlett Johansson, added, “Even when times are impossible and they [the Avengers] are facing the unface-able, she [Black Widow] has a certain sense of her own mortality and how fragile that is, and she’s accepted it. So she kind of laughs it off and takes it with a grain of salt—which grounds her.”

Elsewhere during the convention, Marvel publishing unveiled details about its Issue No. 1000, one of the biggest Marvel Comics projects ever assembled. Additionally, editors and writers from Marvel’s storied “bullpen,” including Marvel editor-in-chief C. B. Cebulski, also delivered panels on Spider-Man, what comes next for the X-Men after the senses-shattering revelations of the House of X and Powers of X, and a behind-the-scenes look at how a Marvel comic book is made.

Of course, this being the 80th anniversary of Marvel, a few celebrations marked the occasion (including D23’s Gold and Gold Family Member Mixer). In the world of Marvel Animation, Cort Lane (senior vice president, Animation and Family Entertainment), Kalia Ramirez (director, Family Entertainment, Development and Partnerships), writers Mark Hoffmeier (Spider-Man: The Animated Series) and Marty Isenberg (X-Men: The Animated Series), and voice actors Josh Keaton (Spectacular Spider-Man, Marvel’s Avengers Assemble) and Jennifer Hale (Wolverine and the X-Men, Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy) celebrated five decades of Marvel cartoons.

Mickey Mouse and D23

Speaking of D23, the Official Disney Fan Club boogied the night away at a party in honor of the 40th anniversary of the multiplatinum Mickey Mouse Disco album. Earlier that day, the grooves were flowing at the panel, “Mickey on Vinyl: D23 Celebrates the Mouse, the Music, and the Movement,” which took attendees on a funky trip through Mickey Mouse’s influence on pop culture.

The list goes on and on, with too many presentations and panels and events to mention, but we’ll end with this one. On Saturday, Marvel’s Avengers: Endgame directors Joe and Anthony Russo climbed aboard the IMDB boat, docked just behind the convention center, and kicked off the Marvel We Love You 3000 tour, celebrating the home release of Avengers: Endgame (now the BIGGEST box-office champion of all time!). The tour, featuring special guests, will hit several cities and culminate at D23 Expo 2019 in Anaheim—which means all D23 fans will get a chance to celebrate this amazing film, along with all the other worlds of Disney. It’s the largest gathering of Disney fans on the planet—we’ll see you there!

D23 Expo Marvel News You’ll Love 3,000

July 23, 2019March 31, 2020

by D23 Expo Team

Today marks one month until D23 Expo 2019. That’s right, there’s just ONE month to go! Can you tell we can hardly wait?

Well, we’re excited (x 3000) to announce all of the awesome things Marvel is assembling at D23 Expo 2019!

Inside the Marvel Studios Pavilion on the show floor, you can step inside the action of the record-breaking Avengers: Endgame at a D23 Expo-exclusive video experience, and tour the costume gallery to see costumes worn by characters from the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Throughout the weekend, Marvel Studios will host panels with filmmakers and artists, as well as special talent signings inside the Pavilion. You can even test your knowledge of the Marvel Cinematic Universe with daily trivia games for prizes, proving you’ll do whatever it takes.

Showcasing brand-new experiences for guests around the world to enjoy for years to come, the Disney Parks’ “Imagining Tomorrow, Today” Pavilion will give you a unique look at Tony Stark’s latest plans to recruit guest to join the Avengers in a fully immersive areas filled with action and adventure in Hong Kong, Paris, and California.

The weekend is also filled with exciting Marvel film, television, animation, and comic book panels and stage events you can’t miss:

How to Draw the Marvel Way
Friday, August 23, 3:30 p.m. PT, and Saturday, August 24, 3 p.m. PT, Center Stage
Brian Crosby, Creative Director of Themed Entertainment for Marvel, takes you step by step through a creative tutorial on how to draw your favorite Marvel characters!

Marvel Animation’s Venom Invasion and a World Premiere!
Friday, August 23, 6 – 7 p.m. PT, Stage 28
Join Marvel Animation for an exciting panel full of sneak peeks, special guests, and big announcements, including scoop on fan-favorite series Marvel’s Spider-Man and the world premiere of the new Marvel Rising special Battle of the Bands!

The Walt Disney Studios Hall D23 Presentation
Saturday, August 24, 10 a.m. – noon, Hall D23
The Walt Disney Studios will present a behind-the-scenes look at its blockbuster collection of upcoming films, including a peek at exciting projects from Marvel Studios. As always, attendees will be treated to exclusive footage, special guest appearances, and more!

MARVEL COMICS: Marvel 80th Anniversary
Saturday, August 24, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. PT, Stage 28
Marvel Editor-in-Chief C.B. Cebulski and Executive Editor Tom Brevoort take you through the amazing, incredible, and uncanny history of Marvel Comics! Get the inside scoop on the House of Ideas—from Captain America to Captain Marvel! As part of Marvel’s 80th anniversary celebration this year, this commemorative panel looks back at the history of the Marvel Universe, honoring the iconic characters and timeless stories that have inspired fans all around the world. Marvel will continue celebrating this milestone with its characters and fans in exciting ways all year—from comics and games, to digital shows, toys, collectibles, and more.

9 Chilling Twilight Zone Tower of Terror Facts

July 22, 2019September 30, 2024

By Jocelyn Buhlman

October 31, 1939: The date of the fateful night when five passengers from glamorous Hollywood took their one-way trip into the Twilight Zone. July 22, 1994: The date the Hollywood Tower Hotel reopened its doors for us at Disney Hollywood Studios—and reopened the mystery behind the hotel. And now? July 22, 20204 marks 30 years since we first made that thrilling drop on The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™, and we’ve been hooked ever since.

This, as you may recognize, is a list of nine facts about The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. We dive into the secrets of the famed Hollywood Tower Hotel and you might even take our own trip into… The Twilight Zone! Read on, if you dare:

1. Now Entering the Binge-Watching Zone
To accurately create our journey into the Twilight Zone, Disney Imagineers screened each of the 156 episodes of the classic series at least twice! Many episodes were screened three or four times and studied in regard to props, guest stars, settings, and music. To help craft that iconic preshow video, Imagineers observed Rod Serling’s opening and closing comments separately at least 10 times each to determine the most representative quotes and characteristic phrases used by Serling in his role as host of the show.

2. Unlocking the Door into the Fifth Dimension
During their tireless marathon of The Twilight Zone episodes, one thing stood out to the team—every week, Rod Serling told viewers that, with the key of imagination, one unlocks the door to another dimension–to the Fifth Dimension. The creative team behind the attraction decided it was time to go there! While Rod Serling could show us the fifth dimension on the television series, only this attraction could take us there.

3. Influential Episodes
While The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is not inspired by one specific episode from the series, certain episodes did have a major impact on the attraction’s plot. For example, the episode “Little Girl Lost” inspired Imagineers to include the Fifth Dimension in the attraction—and maybe some more Easter eggs, if you listen closely in the Boiler Room. You can also physically watch part of a Twilight Zone episode during Rod Serling’s introduction of the attraction. The original footage of Serling was taken from the episode “It’s a Good Life,” but has now been transformed into the introduction for a new episode—one where you are the main character.

4. This is a “Lost” Twilight Zone Episode Where YOU Are the Star
If you’re trying to remember an episode involving lightning striking a hotel, don’t worry—there wasn’t one! The goal wasn’t to recreate a famous episode, but to make a brand-new experience for guests at Disney Hollywood Studios. Now, we have the chance to be stars in a “lost” episode of The Twilight Zone, where we get to experience the story for ourselves.

5. Giving Props to Classic Episodes
What’s a classic Disney attraction without Easter eggs? Sharp-eyed visitors should pay attention in the hotel’s Library—especially if you’re a Twilight Zone fan. While the hotel is full of intriguing pieces—apparently collected by its globetrotting owner—some of the artifacts look strangely familiar, from a small metal spaceman suit and a nickel fortune-telling machine to a pair of cracked reading glasses and a cookbook ominously titled “To Serve Man.”

6. What Kind of Party, Indeed…
Hollywood’s most famous hotel naturally features its brightest star. Mickey Mouse makes cameo appearances, his most famous being the Mickey Mouse doll held by the child star in imagery throughout the attraction. The Library already has a wealth of Twilight Zone Easter eggs as well, but Disney fans should search for sheet music for the song that asks the age-old question, “What! No Mickey Mouse? (What Kind of Party is This?)”

7. Classic Californian Architecture
Disney’s Hollywood Studios is inspired by the “Hollywood that never was—and always will be,” but The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror takes particular inspiration from certain key landmarks that lend an air of authenticity to the once-glittering hotel in the heart of Tinseltown. Taking visual cues from the revival styles that swept California in the early 20th century, The Hollywood Tower Hotel echoes famous buildings such as the Mission Inn and the Biltmore Hotel. Emotionally, it recalls the legend and lore of the historic Chateau Marmont. Its landscaping—now abandoned and overgrown, but once an extravagant masterpiece—was inspired by the chaparral-covered hills of L.A.’s Griffith Park and Elysian Park.

8. Disney’s Hollywood
Besides references to classic The Twilight Zone episodes, there’s another special shout-out to a certain famous American. “Four Pages of Hilarious Star Caricatures by Walt Disney” is featured in the Photoplay magazine on the Concierge Desk.

9. Terror-ific Towers all Over the World
Traveling to a Disney park in France or Tokyo? Make sure to “drop in” on the unique version of Tower of Terror that each park features. Walt Disney Studios Park at Disneyland Paris features a similar adventure to that of Disney’s Hollywood Studios, but over in Tokyo, you can stop by the Hightower Hotel for a very different story. Tokyo DisneySea features a unique spin on the Tower of Terror attraction, where you can investigate Harrison Hightower III’s disappearance thanks to a mysterious idol. Will you follow his fate? Whichever version of the experience is your favorite, one thing’s for sure—you’re going down for a great time!

Breaking News from San Diego Comic-Con—Everything New That’s Coming to the Marvel Cinematic Universe

July 20, 2019July 22, 2019

By Beth Deitchman

As we learned from Marvel Studios’ Avengers: Endgame, part of the journey is the end… And as we discovered this evening in Hall H at San Diego Comic-Con, after the end comes a new beginning. Tonight, Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige thrilled the packed house—with the help of special guests that included Angelina Jolie, Benedict Cumberbatch, Jeremy Renner, Chris Hemsworth, and Mahershala Ali—as he unveiled eagerly anticipated details about the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

In the coming months and years, we can look forward to new big-screen adventures for Black Widow, Doctor Strange, and Thor, as well as series for Hawkeye, Scarlet Witch, and The Falcon and The Winter Soldier on Disney+, the streaming service that launches in the U.S. on November 12. Here is everything we know about the unbelievable lineup Marvel Studios is bringing to a screen near you:

COMING TO THEATERS:

Marvel Comic-Con 2019 — (L-R) President of Marvel Studios Kevin Feige, director Chloe Zhao, Richard Madden, Kumail Nanjiani, Lauren Ridloff, Brian Tyree Henry, Salma Hayek, Lia McHugh, Don Lee and Angelina Jolie

The Eternals—November 6, 2020
Get ready to meet an exciting new team of Super Heroes in The Eternals, to be directed by Chloé Zhao. The film stars Richard Madden as Ikaris, Kumail Nanjiani as Kingo, Lauren Ridloff as Makkari, Brian Tyree Henry as Phastos, Salma Hayek as Ajak, Lia McHugh as Sprite, Don Lee as Gilgamesh, and Angelina Jolie as Thena.

Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings—February 12, 2021
Fans who have been following the Marvel Cinematic Universe closely know that there have been hints about this legend since the very first Iron Man. Tonight, Feige brought actor Simu Liu to the Hall H stage, along with the film’s director, Destin Daniel Cretton, and he revealed some other exciting casting news. Legendary Chinese actor Tony Leung has been cast as the real Mandarin, while we can also look forward to Awkwafina in a mysterious role that has yet to be revealed…

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness—May 7, 2021
As excited as we are for a second film centered around Doctor Strange, we’re even more thrilled by the news that he will be joined in the new film by Wanda Maximoff/Scarlet Witch. Elizabeth Olsen revealed that Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness will have a direct connection to the Disney+ series WandaVision, in which she’ll also star, and you can color us intrigued. Benedict Cumberbatch stars once again as Doctor Stephen Strange and Scott Derrickson returns to direct.

Thor: Love and Thunder—November 5, 2021
There’s a new God of Thunder and she’s more than worthy—she’s also a Goddess. Natalie Portman joined director Taika Waititi, Chris Hemsworth, and Tessa Thompson on stage, wielding Thor’s hammer as it was revealed that her character, Jane Foster, will become the Mighty Thor in the next installment in the Thor franchise.

Black Widow—May 1, 2020
We have less than a year to wait for the first film of Phase Four to hit the nearest multiplex. Black Widow is in production now, with Scarlett Johansson reprising her role of Natasha Romanoff. Cate Shortland directs the film, which also features David Harbour as Alexei, aka The Red Guardian; Florence Pugh as Yelena; O-T Fagbenle as Mason; and Rachel Weisz as Melina.

Blade
Details were scant about the film, but two-time Oscar® winner Mahershala Ali was announced to star as the title character, who in Marvel comics is a half-human/half-vampire who has made it his mission to protect mortals from the undead. We’re already on the edge of our seats!

COMING TO DISNEY+:

The Falcon and The Winter Soldier—Fall 2020
We last saw this pair of Super Heroes in the final moments of Avengers: Endgame, and in the fall of next year, Sam Wilson (aka The Falcon) and Bucky Barnes (aka The Winter Soldier) will embark on a new chapter. Anthony Mackie (The Falcon) and Sebastian Stan (The Winter Soldier) will be joined by Daniel Brühl as villain Baron Zemo.

WandaVision—Spring 2021
We already knew that this series would feature two fan-favorite characters—Wanda Maximoff/Scarlet Witch and Vision, played by Elizabeth Olsen and Paul Bettany, respectively—but it was revealed in Hall H that we’ll be seeing a third when WandaVision premieres on Disney+. An adult Monica Rambeau—the adorable daughter of Maria Rambeau from Captain Marvel—will be played by MCU newcomer Teyonah Parris.

Loki—Spring 2021
The God of Mischief is coming to Disney+. Will we discover what happened after Loki took off with the Space Stone in Avengers: Endgame? We hope to find out, come spring 2021.

What If…?—Summer 2021
As fans, it’s fun to speculate on alternate realities within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but we can’t wait to see what the talented minds at Marvel come up with. Jeffrey Wright will voice The Watcher in the new series, and Marvel Studios is assembling a stellar voice cast from across the Marvel Cinematic Universe to reprise their roles as voice talent.

Hawkeye—Fall 2021
Jeremy Renner was on hand to reveal the series’ title, and to announce that a popular Marvel comics character will be an integral part of the series. Stay tuned for more details about Hawkeye—and Kate Bishop, who will be joining the Super Hero—as they’re announced.

This is just the beginning. Stay tuned to D23.com for all of the details about Phase Four of the MCU.

What You Need to Know From the DuckTales Comic-Con Adventure

July 20, 2019July 22, 2019

By Jim Frye

Let’s hear it for Huey, Dewey, Louie, Webby, and the whole gang from Duckburg, as they take off on brand-new adventures in DuckTales, the fresh new take on the fan-favorite 1987 animated series. DuckTales follows the adventures of Huey, Dewey, Louie, Webby Vanderquack, Donald Duck, Della Duck, Launchpad McQuack, and Scrooge McDuck. Executive produer Matt Youngberg and co-producer/story editor Frank Angones gave attendees at the DuckTales San Diego Comic-Con panel an exclusive peek behind the feathers at the rest of Season 2 and the upcoming third season, including a mid-season trailer:

Perhaps the biggest surprise of the day came when Lin-Manuel Miranda—who voices Gizmoduck/Fenton Crackshell—showed up and joined stars Paget Brewster (Della Duck), Bobby Moynihan (Louie Duck), Ben Schwartz (Dewey Duck), and Kate Micucci (Webby Vanderquack) on the panel. Sitting with his fellow voice cast, he said, “All of the Disney Afternoon theme songs are perfect,” before singing a few lines himself.

But Miranda wasn’t the only surprise, as the producers showed off a parade of characters who would be making their way to Duckburg this next go-round. They included beloved characters Daisy (yay!), Goofy, Gadget, Chip, Dale, and Monterey Jack from Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers; a grown-up Kit and Molly from TaleSpin; Gosalyn Mallard from Darkwing Duck; and more.

A new poster for the upcoming season 2 of DuckTales was also revealed.

The “woo-oo” that so embodies the show was altered in unforgettable ways as Scrooge’s arch nemesis, Flintheart Glomgold, took over the iconic DuckTales theme song with his own unique rendition. It’s part of Disney Channel’s “Disney Theme Song Takeover” short-form series, which spotlights animated characters doing their own unique take on series theme songs.

New episodes of DuckTales will premiere in September on Disney Channel and in DisneyNOW.

Fans also got a special exclusive first look at two upcoming new series: First up was The Rocketeer, based on the live-action film favorite, which tells the story of Kit, a young girl who receives a jetpack for her birthday and becomes the namesake Rocketeer to protect the citizens of Hughesville, along with the help of her best friend, Tesh, bulldog sidekick, Butch, and airplane mechanic grandfather, Ambrose Secord. It will air on Disney Junior later this year.

Next up was The Owl House, which premieres early in 2020 on Disney Channel. Created and executive produced by Dana Terrace (Gravity Falls), the series is an animated fantasy-comedy that follows Luz, a teenage human girl who accidently stumbles upon a portal to a magical new world where she befriends a rebellious witch, Eda, and an adorably tiny warrior, King.

Disney Junior’s Muppet Babies Renewed for Third Season

Save the Date! Be sure to mark these upcoming Disney events on your calendar:

All the Marvel News You’ve Just Gotta Know from San Diego Comic-Con

Disney Channel Announces The Curse of Molly McGee

Soaring: Fantastic Flight Now Open at Tokyo DisneySea

The Rocketeer Animated Series—Big Casting News!

Sofia Carson Roars into the Pride Lands with Spanish-Language “Circle of Life”

Kick It Up with DescenDANCE Party at Disney Springs

Save the Date!
Be sure to mark these upcoming Disney events on your calendar: