Celebrate Hispanic Latinx Heritage Month with the Ultimate Watchlist

Hispanic Latinx heritage month is in full swing, and we have the perfect list of movies and TV shows for Disney fans of all ages to enjoy. From TV fan favorites to Oscar®-winning animated films celebrating the diverse cultures within the Hispanic and Latinx communities, we’ve got you covered!

A sketch of Luz in a purple and white hoodie giving a tight hug to King, her demon dog with horns and bright yellow eyes.

The Owl House (2020-)
If Luz (Sarah Nicole Robles) could have anything in the world, it would be to become a witch. The self-assured Dominican American teenager finds herself in the Boiling Isles—an otherworldly realm—where she works to make her supernatural dreams a reality with the help of a few interesting companions including a rebellious witch and an adorable tiny warrior.

Miguel wears a red hoodie and light wash denim while playing an acoustic guitar. He is dancing with a skeleton wearing torn clothing and a straw hat. They are standing on a stage in front of an audience.

Coco (2017)
When Miguel (Anthony Gonzalez), a 12-year-old boy from Mexico, dreams of being a world-renowned musician like his idol Ernesto de la Cruz (Benjamin Bratt), he ends up finding music is closer to home than he thought in this Oscar-winning classic from Disney and Pixar. He goes on a fantastical adventure in the land of his ancestors during Día de Los Muertos, where he connects with his Mexican heritage more than ever before.

Mirabel holds a large basket filled with several types of toys, instruments, and decorations. Children are gathered around either side of her. Mirabel is wearing round glasses and a dark teal skirt.

Encanto (2021)
This Oscar-winning animated feature tells the tale of an extraordinary family, the Madrigals, who live hidden in the mountains of Colombia… in a magical house, in a vibrant town and a wonderful, charmed place called an Encanto. The magic of the Encanto has blessed every member of the Madrigal family except  Mirabel (Stephanie Beatriz). When the house begins to fall apart, Mirabel must band together with her family to prove that love overcomes even the most challenging circumstances.

While she may not harness powers like family, including her sisters Isabella (Diane Guerro) and Luisa (Jessica Darrow), Mirabel proves that you don’t need supernatural powers to change the world. Sometimes all you need is perseverance and bravery.

The cast is standing on concrete steps holding red pom poms in their hands with their arms next to their heads.

Gotta Kick It Up! (2002)
When Yolanda (America Ferrera) and her friends join a struggling dance team in middle school, their biology teacher Ms. Bartlett (Susan Egan) must bring the girls together to create a championship team. The girls learn to overcome their differences, bring their cultures together, and have some fun.

Tess Romero wears denim overalls over a white collared shirt. She stands behind a light wooden podium in a classroom.

Diary of a Future President (2020-2021)
Becoming president is no easy feat. It takes years of rejection, perseverance, and important life lessons. The series tells the origin story of Cuban American and future leader Elena Canero-Reed (Gina Rodriguez) as she enters the seventh grade. In Diary of a Future President, Elena (Tess Romero) is just a normal 12-year-old girl—well, for the most part. Thanks to her daily diary, the show takes us through her journey from middle-schooler to world leader.

(From left to right) Jake T. Austin wears a red t-shirt. David Henrie wears a white graphic t-shirt with a blue zip-up hoodie with his hands on his hips and a surprised expression on his face. Selena Gomez stands with her right shoulder leading in a blush-colored t-shirt with a lace vest and layered necklaces.

Wizards of Waverly Place (2007-2012)
Being a teen is hard enough—but try throwing in being a wizard! Alex Russo (Selena Gomez) leads this Disney Channel original show about a New York family jam-packed with wizards and the teenage blues. Between boys, vampires, and wizardry lessons, life can be very confusing.

Three members of the cast of This Fool stand next to each other. The man on the left is wearing a pink apron that reads “Hug Me,” while the man in the middle (Frankie Quinones) and the man on the right (Chris Estrada) wear T-shirts reading “Hugs Not Thugs.”

This Fool (2022)
This Hulu series is a must-watch given its hilarious storyline about ex-gang members including Luis (Frankie Quinones) and Julias (Chris Estrada) attempting to chart new lives through the rehabilitation program Hugs Not Thugs. Despite their rough upbringing in South Central Los Angeles, they all just want a better life for themselves and their families.

For more viewing options, check out our comprehensive list of representative films and series on Disney+.

 

School Is Back in Session for Abbott Elementary

By Zach Johnson

It’s safe to say Quinta Brunson understood the assignment.

Just a few weeks after Abbott Elementary won three Primetime Emmy® Awards, the best-in-class comedy will return for its highly anticipated second season on Wednesday, September 21, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on ABC. In the hit workplace comedy, a group of dedicated, passionate teachers—and a slightly tone-deaf principal—work together in a Philadelphia public school where, despite the odds stacked against them, they are determined to help their students succeed in life. Though these committed educators may be outnumbered and underfunded, they love what they do… even if they don’t love the school district’s less-than-stellar attitude toward educating children.

Unlike its first season, the new episodes will showcase more of the teachers’ personal lives, giving viewers an intimate look at who each of them are outside the classroom. “Home is a great place to learn more about a character,” says creator and executive producer Brunson, who plays Janine Teagues. “We think it’s a really fun experience for the audience and for [the actors] to learn more about where these people come from.”

Lisa Ann Walter, in character as Melissa Schemmenti, wears a pink top and layered necklaces. To her left is Sheryl Lee Ralph, in character as Barbara Howard, who is wearing a floral printed top and double strands of pearls. They are talking to Quinta Brunson, in character as Janine Teagues, whose back is to the camera.

For example, for first time this season, viewers will see Melissa Schemmenti (Lisa Ann Walter) interacting with her family. “This family is very much like my family,” Walter says. “They’re loud. They fight. They love each other. They say their feelings. They overdo it. It’s exactly what you might expect from Melissa’s family. I’m just concerned that my actual sister might think this has to do with her. It does not, Laura! It does not!”

The cast is excited to be back in the classroom—and to be working with the adorable kids who play their students. “One of the kids asked me today, ‘Are you going to be my teacher?’” Tyler James Williams, who plays Gregory Eddie, says with a laugh. “I was like, ‘More or less… sure.” Working with real kids, as opposed to child actors, he says, “adds a certain something to this show that you just can’t get anywhere else, because they’re not hyper-professional. They do a very good job, but they’re not trying to chart out their careers immediately. We get a lot of really fun energy here. They’re just as responsive in the scenes as we are, and as an actor, that stops it from getting stale.”

Tyler James Williams, in character as Gregory Eddie, stands with both arms at his side outside of Abbott Elementary. He is wearing a long-sleeved khaki shirt, which is tucked into his jeans. To his left is Janelle James, in character as Ava Coleman, who is holding her iPhone in both hands. She is wearing a Philadelphia Eagles V-beck and a black leather skirt.

It’s not just the scene-stealing kids who are keeping the actors engaged, as Brunson and her team of writers will be producing nearly double the amount of episodes they did in Season 1. “The first season was much easier to do, because we got to film, edit, and write the majority of the season before it even went to air,” Brunson says. “This year, we’ll be in a different situation. We’ll still be filming and still be writing when the show starts airing… I want to make sure we have things for people to tune into and be excited about each week. That’s just harder to do with 22 [episodes]. With 13, I knew I could put something in there that would make people show up in this ever-changing, binge-worthy climate. This is not something people will be able to binge immediately, so I just want to make sure they will be back with us every week that we’re on the air.”

New episodes of Abbott Elementary stream next day on Hulu.

Celebrate National Hispanic-Latinx Heritage Month at Downtown Disney and Disney Springs

Celebrate National Hispanic-Latinx Heritage Month all month long through music, art, and special offerings at Downtown Disney and Disney Springs! Until October 15, join the fiesta magica with these exclusive offers:

Downtown Disney 

Chocolate cake with a flan custard baked top and caramel sauce, served on a brown plate.

Ballast Point Brewing Co.

  • Chicken Mole Fries: Marinated thigh meat smothered with house-made mole, topped with Mexican crema, avocado salsa, and micro greens.
  • Elote Ribs: Deep-fried corn riblet tossed in butter, with a spicy cilantro lime aioli, queso fresco, and garnished with micro greens.
  • Chile Relleno Burrito: Braised pork, stuffed peppers with cheese deep-fried in egg batter, Spanish rice, refried pinto beans.
  • Choco-Flan Cake: Chocolate cake with a flan custard-baked top and caramel sauce.

Spicy Hot Link Sausage, dipped in corn meal batter, fried, topped with garlic mayo, corn kernels, cotija cheese, and cilantro laying in front of a bright yellow background.

Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs

  • Mexican Street Corn Dog: Spicy Hot Link Sausage, dipped in corn meal batter, fried, and topped with garlic mayo, corn kernels, cotija cheese, and cilantro. Garnished with a lime wedge and served with a bag of chips.

Catal Restaurant

  • Pork Belly Al Pastor Paella: Green sofrito bomba rice, Bilboa chorizo, charred green onions, salsa verde, pickled onions and cilantro salad.
  • Aqua de Valencia: Cava Brut, vodka, gin, and orange juice.

Pina Mezcal Mule topped with a lime placed in front of a plate of beans and rice on a table.

Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen®

  • The Piña Mezcal Mule: Mezcal, pineapple juice, and ginger beer

Stop by Tuesday nights*--September 20 and 27 and October 4 and 11—for “Latin Jazz Nights’ in the Flambeaux Room, featuring live Latin jazz music from various artists, 6 ‘til 10 p.m.

*Dining reservations are recommended through the Disneyland app but are not required. Walk-ups are accepted all night and subject to a wait. Bar seating is available for full dining on first come first served bases.

Full table of three plates containing different food offerings (left to right): Mahi Mahi filet with aji Amarillo, red onion, cherry tomato, fresh cilantro, boiled sweet potato, and corn nuts; three rolled crispy chicken tacos served with mole Verde, sheered lettuce, pico de gallo, and queso fresco; seared rib eye served with crispy potatoes a la Mexicana, sautéed Poblano peppers, tomato, onions, and cilantro with pico de gallo, guacamole, refried beans, and Chile Toreado.

Tortilla Jo’s

  • Tacos Ahogados: Rolled crispy chicken tacos served with mole Verde, sheered lettuce, pico de gallo, and queso fresco.
  • Carne asada tampiquena: Seared rib eye served with crispy potatoes a la Mexicana, sautéed Poblano peppers, tomato, onions, and cilantro with pico de gallo, guacamole, refried beans, and Chile Toreado.
  • Peruvian Ceviche: Mahi-mahi filet with fresh lime juice, aji Amarillo, red onion, cherry tomato, fresh cilantro, boiled sweet potato, and corn nuts.

Latina-Owned Food Trucks Every Night
Starting daily at 3 p.m. near the Downtown Disney LIVE! Stage

  • Kiki’s Cuban Food: The Kiki’s Cuban Food’s journey began in Orange County, California. Kiki started sharing her family’s pork recipe at farmer’s markets alongside her family and boyfriend. The tasty pork sandwich won everyone’s hearts, and they started to have a following every week. Kiki’s Cuban Food Truck was established in 2021. Kiki is still serving the same delicious pork that was lovingly served in her home and shared with family and friends her whole life. This recipe has been passed down through many generations. “It’s still us, serving great authentic food prepared with love for all of you.”
  • Vchos: “If you live in Los Angeles, chances are you’ve seen a pupuseria or two (a restaurant that serves traditional Salvadoran food and pupusas). Well, we took that concept to the next level by combining the traditional authentic pupusa with a modern Latin twist!”

California Sole
Havaianas has been spreading Brazilian spirit around the world since 1962 with its iconic rubber sole and bright, colorful, and summer-infused designs. Every pair of Havaianas flip-flops is still designed and made in its birthplace, Brazil. Pick up a pair or two today at California Sole!

Offer: Buy one get one 50% off Havaiana Sandals during the trunk show

Dates: September 15-October 16*
*While supplies last

Man poses wearing a bright green soccer jersey and white shorts.

Pelé Soccer
Represent your nation for the 2022 World Cup with a selection of official South & Central American jerseys!

Family Craft Activity
Open daily from 12-6 p.m.

Create memories together... Craft station located near the Downtown Disney LIVE! Stage.

Entertainment
September 15 to September 31, 2022
6:30 PM, 7:30 PM, 8:30 PM, 9:40 PM

September 30 to Oct 31, 2022
Monday-Thursday 6:30PM, 7:30PM, 8:30PM, 9:40PM
Friday – Sunday 6:00PM, 7:00PM, 8:40PM, 9:30PM

Hispanic Heritage Bands
El Sabor Bueno – Sept 15, 22, 26, 29; Oct 5, 6, 13, 15
Julian Torres y Mariachi Cenzontle – Sept 16, 19, 21, 23, 30; Oct 12, 14
Estilo Tumbao Band – Sept 17, 20, 28; Oct 1, 3, 7, 8, 10
Tina Aldana Band – Sept 18, 24, 25, 27; Oct 2, 4, 9, 11

Art scene depicting Disneyland’s Main Street U.S.A with the following characters parading in the street (left to right): Chip, Dale, and the Cheshire Cat are seen hanging out in a tree. Below them, Lady, Jacque, and Tramp are seen next to Tony and Joe holding a plate of spaghetti. The sorcerer’s mops are caring buckets of water by the Beast, Mrs. Potts, Chip, Cogsworth, Belle, and Philippe. Behind them, Roger and Pongo are driving the Fire Department truck with the whole dalmatian family. Pinocchio, The Fox, and The Cat are walking with Jiminy Cricket floating above them. Aladdin and Jasmine are soaring above the Penny Arcade on the magic carpet, next to Dumbo, the Fairy Godmother, Peter Pan, Tinker Bell, Wendy, and John. In the center of Main Street U.S.A, Prince Eric, Ariel, Flounder, Scuttle, Alice, The Mad Hatter, and the Seven Dwarfs are riding the Disneyland Trolly. Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, Simba, Timon, Mickey Mouse, Goofy, Donald Duck, Cinderella, Bambi, Thumper, Flower, and the Aristocats are dancing and playing music. Winnie the Pooh, Eeyore, Tigger, Rabbit, Piglet, Roo, Captain Hook, Magic Mirror, Tweedle Dee, Tweedle Dum, Queen of Hearts, the Queen’s Knights, and Sleeping Beauty are seen behind them.

Artist Showcase with Manuel Hernandez
Celebrate Hispanic and Latin-American cultures with Manuel Hernandez at Downtown Disney District—featuring pieces from Disney Fine Art by Collectors Editions.

Guests who purchase artwork by Hernandez on the event day at the event location may have the opportunity to meet the artist and have select merchandise signed.​

  • Dates: September 24 and 25, 2022
  • Times: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., daily
  • Location: WonderGround Gallery, Downtown Disney District

About the Artist

Brilliantly composed and filled with vibrant color, the paintings of Southern California native Manuel Hernandez are a feast for the eyes. Reflecting the mastery and energy of some of the finest artists to fill the pages of Disney history, Hernandez’s work captures the magic and essence of this timeless artistic tradition and moves it reverently into the 21st century.

Hernandez’s meticulous attention to detail is a hallmark of his paintings. Traditionally trained, he was originally inspired and influenced by the contemporary illustrative works of J.C. Leyendecker, Dean Cornwell, and Norman Rockwell. Having studied and apprenticed as an illustrator, he developed his skills with pen and brush to a level of mastery that would come to satisfy even the most discerning eye of some Disney art traditionalists.​

When asked to contribute his artistic interpretation of Disney stories and characters, Hernandez set about to create a fresh perspective—utilizing a modern Americana theme made famous by his early illustrative influences. Armed with many years of study and an equally demanding drive for perfectionism, Hernandez incorporated the powerful style of muralist Diego Rivera. Blended with his illustrative technique, this powerful combination gave rise to the unique and passionate artwork he would become famous for.

 Disney Springs 

Hands holding white cake decorated with purple and red flowers and butterflies, wrapped in a teal ribbon at the bottom.

Amorette’s Patisserie

  • Flancocho: Chef Yoly’s version of this dessert from Puerto Rico. Caramel flan and rich chocolate cake, garnished with an Amorette’s Patisserie chocolate disk, dried strawberry, meringue and macaron.
  • Encanto Petit Cake: Vanilla chiffon cake, mango mousse, raspberry mousse, and white chocolate crisp pearls.

Large Burger stacked with ham, pork belly, and fried potato sticks resting on a brown plate.

D-Luxe Burger

  • Tripleta Burger: Deluxe patty, ham, pork Belly, fried potato sticks, lettuce, tomato, and ketchup aioli.

Fries topped with sofrito ground beef, fried sweet plantain, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic mayo, and chives held on a brown paper tray.

The Daily Poutine

  • Pastelón Poutine: Sofrito ground beef, fried sweet plantain, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic mayo, fries, and chives.

Clear glass holding a yellow drink topped with a lime.

Jock Lindsay’s Hangar Bar

  • Bitter Barkeep: Barsol Quebranta Pisco, simple syrup, fresh lime juice.

Vivoli il Gelato

  • Chamoyada: Mango sorbetto, beer, tajin, and chamoy.
  • Guava Cannoli: A sweet cream made with ricotta, sugar, and guava in a crispy pastry shell.

UNOde50
Discover and shop UNOde50’s newest collection, Radiant, featuring handcrafted pieces by Spanish artists. 10% off during “Together we are Magia”!

Arribas Brothers
Immersed in the rich culture of their Spanish hometown of La Coruña, Spain, brothers Tomas and Alfnso Arribas mastered the 100-year-old family business in the ancient techniques of Glass Blowing and Cutting.

Representing Spain in the World’s Fair in 1964, the brothers met Walt Disney and impressed him with their finely handcrafted works of art. In 1967, the Arribas Brothers began creating magic in a tiny shop inside the Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland. These humble beginnings molded and shaped into 19 Disney Park locations around the world.

Splitsville Luxury Lanes

  • Prickly Pear Paloma and Fiesta Roll: Blanco tequila, prickly pear, lime juice, and grapefruit soda.
  • Fiesta Roll: Seared tuna, cream cheese, and our spicy volcano crab mix rolled in nori paper and sushi rice. Topped off with freshly sliced avocado, Masago, scallions, and micro cilantro. Drizzled with eel sauce and our house made Fiesta sauce. Accompanied with wasabi and ginger.

Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew

  • Dulce De Chocolate donut and Dulce De Leche Cold Brew: a cinnamon-sugar coated confection filled with dulce de leche cream and iced with Mexican chocolate. Pair the donut special with our new Dulce De Leche Cold Brew.

Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’

  • Tajin-Rimmed Paloma and Cuban Sandwich: Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ Florida Kitchen & Southern Shine Bar raises a toast to Hispanic and Latin American Heritage Month with their Tajin-Rimmed Paloma. It’s a great match for our Cuban Sandwich made with house-smoked pork, shaved country ham, HFK signature pickles, yellow mustard, and Swiss cheese pressed between slices of fresh Cuban bread.

Cilantro Food Truck (all-new menu)

  • THE SANDWICH CUBANO: Mojo roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on pressed Cuban bread with plantain chips and cilantro’s crema.
  • AREPA ENCANTADA (2) (GF): South American gluten-free white corn meal cakes, stuffed with mozzarella cheese and cilantro’s crema dip.
  • PABELLON CRIOLLO (ROPA VIEJA) (GF): A traditional Venezuelan dish. Shredded flank steak braised in tomato juices, onions, and red peppers, with white rice, black beans, and sweet plantains.
  • TOSTONES CON POLLO (2) (GF): Latin American classic fried green plantains, topped with sofrito chicken, cabbage slaw, queso fresco, cilantro’s crema, and chipotle mayo.
  • PORK PIBIL TOSTADAS (2) (GF): Yucatán-México achiote roasted pork, black bean refritos, queso fresco, habanero pickled red onions, and fresh cilantro over crispy corn tortillas.
  • PALETAS (Mexican-style fruit popsicles): Mango (dairy-free), Coconut, or Passion fruit (filled with sweet condensed milk)

Paradiso 37

  • Puerto Rico Rum Punch
  • San Juan Style Beef Artisan Pastries: filled with savory beef, served with aji Amarillo.

La Calle

“Taking it to the Street! Delivering the quintessential Latin street party—a seamless blend of music and dance. La Calle is a Latin/Pop band performing a high-energy, danceable, and interactive-style live show. Our repertoire is designed for a broad demographic, including English-, Spanish-, and Portuguese-speaking audiences alike. We perform a great variety of genres and rhythms with masterful song covers and dance numbers.”

Backdrops

Visit the new Marketplace site to explore virtual backdrops, access viewing stations, and discover innovative products.

If you love spotting Disney PhotoPass photographers at the theme parks, you won’t want to miss the chance to add digital portraits to your growing collection. For the “Together We Are Magia” celebration, pose behind Mirabel’s Casita and beside Miguel’s guitar with special backdrops from Coco and Encanto!

  • How It Works: No reservation needed—simply stop by the studio during your visit to Disney Springs and a photographer will be on hand to help you select the perfect backdrop. Choose from a variety of styles ranging from standard to virtual Disney scenes shot using a green-screen technique. All photos taken can easily link to your My Disney Experience account and are also included in an active Memory Maker package. While you’re here, you can also preview, purchase, or print out vacation memories linked to your account by using one of the handy PhotoPass viewing stations.

 

Meet the Characters of Andor

By Jocelyn Buhlman

Calling all Rebels: Your next mission is key to the success of the Rebel Alliance. Andor is just days away from debuting on Disney+, and it will showcase the story of not just Cassian Andor, but the entire Rebel Alliance—a group of individuals who believe in a cause so much that they are willing to go against the might and power of the Galactic Empire. But who are these brave rebels? And who are the baddies they fight against? We’re here to deliver the important intel you need to know before you dive into the new series, streaming on September 21 exclusively on Disney+, beginning with the first three episodes.

Cassian Andor stands in a green field, facing left but looking at the camera. He wears a warm jacket and a serious expression.

Cassian Andor (Diego Luna)

The title character himself is someone most fans have already met. Who didn’t shed a tear for the brave rebel when he gave his life in Rogue One to help deliver the Death Star plans to Princess Leia? We know the man who gave his all in the name of fighting the Empire, but how did he become this man? Diego Luna told fans at D23 Expo that “You’re going to wonder if he’s capable of what he did in Rogue One.” At the start of the series, Cassian is alone and lost, unsure of where he stands in the galaxy. With the galaxy torn apart by war, he is challenged to decide what he believes—and more importantly, what he’s going do about it.

Mon Mothma, in all white against a white background, looks to the right at something offscreen

Mon Mothma (Genevieve O’Reilly)

Actress Genevieve O’Reilly returns to portray the iconic rebel. As she told fans at D23 Expo, “We’ve seen her as a bit of a pillar in the Rebellion, but this time we get to meet her and explore her as a woman trying to navigate the dark side of imperial politics while trying to build a rebellion.”

Fans of Star Wars know Mon Mothma as one of the founders of the Alliance to Restore the Republic, but in Andor she’s still a politician trying to figure out what to do in a galaxy controlled by the dark side. She told D23, “She is still that very dignified senator. But for the first time, we get to see the woman behind the role. We get to see a private face of Mon Mothma.”

Bix Caleen climbs a ladder in a dark tunnel, look ahead of her as she ascends.

Bix Caleen (Adria Arjona)

The first of our new characters is Bix Caleen, the manager of a salyard whom Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy describes as having an “on-again, off-again relationship with Cassian.”

Actress Adria Arjona explains that Bix is someone driven by stability, while Cassian is “everything but stable. He’s always on the go, but she wants to stay in one place and live a normal life.”

While Bix doesn’t want to be thrown into the chaos of Cassian, she can’t help but… well, help!

“She’s incredibly loyal and compassionate and cares a little too much for the people around her,” Arjona says, adding that it isher compassion that leads to her helping Cassian, despite her desire for stability: “It’s complicated.”

Syril Carn stands in darkness, his face lit by a rounded screen he is pointing at with a serious expression.

Syril Karn (Kyle Soller)

At D23 Expo, Kennedy described Syril as “the character that everyone loves to hate.” Kyle Soller sees Syril as more gray than fully dark side, however. Yes, Syril works for the Empire, but not because he’s evil. “He came from a place of such lack and such a pain in his home life that he’s trying to fill this void within himself through the fascist, corporate, bureaucratic structure, where he finds order,” Soller explains. “[Showrunner Tony Gilroy] created a character that was really three-dimensional and had a big question mark over him as tohe could kind of go either way. He could go into the Empire. He could go into the Rebel Alliance.” We’ll have to see for ourselves which side—if any!—Syril decides to take.

Dedra Meero stands in a white room, wearing a light-colored Imperial Officer uniform. She is frowning at something offscreen while a an officer stands behind her to the left, out of focus.

Supervisor Dedra Meero (Denise Gough)

Speaking of baddies… Dedra is an officer in the Empire on “the low end of the ladder,” Denise Gough tells us. “She’s incredibly ambitious and meticulous.” Dedra and Syril work together, but the difference between them is that Dedra doesn’t have a gray area. Gough describes her as “clawing her way up the ladder.” Both Dedra and Syril are outsiders compared with their peers in the Empire, but Dedra has power and is determined to use it. “I love portraying the effect that power has on a person, like the danger of that pursuit of power and control, regardless of gender,” Gough says.

Ahoy, Matey! Can You Match the Quote to the Disney Pirate?

We hope you are putting your best peg-leg forward, because Monday, September 19, is International Talk Like a Pirate Day! Take a break from looking for buried treasure to see if you can match the quote to the pirate. Take heed—or you might have to walk the plank!

“That cursed beast liked the taste of me so well he’s followed me ever since, licking chops for the rest of me.”

Correct! Wrong!

“Thanks for being the greatest mateys a matey every had!”

Correct! Wrong!

“How is it we can never meet without you pointing something at me?”

Correct! Wrong!

“If I could maneuver a skiff like that when I was your age, they'd be bowing in the streets when I walked by today.”

Correct! Wrong!

“The problem is not the problem. The problem is your attitude about the problem.”

Correct! Wrong!

“Of all the back-water, no-class piles of sand in the ocean, you had to wash up on mine?”

Correct! Wrong!

How did you do? Are you ready to set sail on the open seas or do you need to brush up on your pirate trivia before boarding the ship? Either way, celebrate the day with our favorite Disney mates, all available on Disney+.

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Week

By Andie Hagemann

From a family trip to Disneyland Resort to celebrities doing the cha-cha, don’t miss all the exciting content coming to your TV (and assorted streaming devices) this week! On Monday, savory new series Best in Dough, launches on Hulu with its first three episodes; followed by the live premiere of Dancing with the Stars Season 31 exclusively on Disney+. Plus, ABC hit comedies Abbott Elementary and Home Economics return Wednesday night. Airing Thursday, Norman Lear: 100 Years of Music and Laughter, honors TV legend Norman Lear in celebration of his 100th birthday, also on ABC.

Bryan Ford, Wells Adams, and Daniele Uditi sit around a round wood table placed within a black leather booth. Ford and Uditi talk to each other from across the table. Adams is biting the pizza. On the table are plates and dishes with different slices of pizza.

Best in Dough—Monday, September 19, on Hulu

Fire up the oven because the first-ever pizza competition debuts this week with three episodes! Pizza obsessed competitors gather to showcase their skills and battle it out for a cash prize. The series is hosted by Wells Adams with head judge chef Daniele Uditi of Pizzana, and includes chef Millie Peartree, comedian and food influencer Eunji Ki, and baker Bryan Ford. Entering the kitchen first are three feisty Italian nonnas with mouthwatering recipes from the old country.

Supermodel and businesswoman Tyra Banks stands next to actor and television personality Alfonso Ribeiro. Behind them is a bold screen showing dark purple and dark blue lights shaped in a circle with lines radiating out.

Dancing with the Stars—Monday, September 19, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on Disney+

Season 31 premieres with an all-new cast of celebrities eager to strut their moves on the dance floor while competing for the coveted Mirrorball Trophy. Supermodel and businesswoman Tyra Banks returns to the ballroom with new co-host, actor Alfonso Ribeiro as the show debuts live on the streaming service. This season’s competitors include Selma Blair, Wayne Brady, Sam Champion, Charli D’Amelio, Gabby Windey, Cheryl Ladd, and Shangela, to name a few.

Actor Sheryl Lee Ralph pumps her arms with excitement looking at a table with new school supplies. Behind her young students are walking into the classroom with backpacks. Ralph wears an orange sweater and blouse with dark slacks.

Abbott Elementary—Wednesday, September 21, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on ABC

School is in session! The teachers are back at Willard R. Abbott Public School for development week, a time to prepare for the upcoming school year before the first day of school. Janine (Quinta Brunson) is determined to start the year off right and leave her personal problems at home. She takes on organizing the faculty mixer and announces a special celebrity surprise that she planned for the kids. Meanwhile, Ava (Janelle James) runs a side hustle out of the school parking lot and Gregory (Tyler James Williams), now a full-time teacher, is overwhelmed with the curriculum.

Actor Karla Souza wears a teal shirt reading “Disneyland Resort” and a gray baseball hat. She smiles with her hand on her hip and the other arm leaning on a stroller. Actor Topher Grace stands to her left and looks at her. He wears a gray hoodie and T-shirt.

Home Economics—Wednesday, September 21, at 9:30 p.m. ET/PT on ABC

Season 3 of the hit comedy series kicks off with the Hayward family bound for the Happiest Place on Earth. However, when Tom (Topher Grace) finds out that his younger brother Connor (Jimmy Tatro) is his new boss, a lightsaber duel and ensuing bickering threatens the perfectly planned day at Disneyland Resort. Don’t miss an appearance by actress and friend of D23 Yvette Nicole Brown.

Actors Octavia Spencer, Jimmy Kimmel, Jennifer Aniston, and Amy Poehler stand behind Norman Lear who sits in a chair with his right hand on a wood table in front of him. Behind them is a black backdrop.

Norman Lear: 100 Years of Music and Laughter—Thursday, September 22, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on ABC

The star-studded celebration, including Jennifer Aniston, Rob Reiner, Amy Poehler, Octavia Spencer, and many more, honors the life and legacy of storyteller, activist, and philanthropist Norman Lear. The special includes intimate conversations, special performances, and surprise reunions that pay homage to the man behind some of television’s greatest stories in celebration of his 100th birthday.

Hulu’s Reboot Puts the Fun in a Dysfunctional Sitcom Family

By Andie Hagemann

Times may change, but onscreen family is forever.

From award-winning creator Steven Levitan, Hulu’s new meta comedy series, Reboot, follows the streamer as it reboots an early 2000s family sitcom, Step Right Up, bringing its madcap cast back together. However, they must now deal with their unresolved issues in today’s ever-changing world.

Starring Keegan-Michael Key as Reed, Judy Greer as Bree, Johnny Knoxville as Clay, Paul Reiser as Gordon, Rachel Bloom as Hannah, Calum Worthy as Zach, and Krista Marie Yu as Elaine, Reboot premieres Tuesday, September 20, on Hulu with three episodes, with a new episode launching weekly thereafter. Levitan also serves as an executive producer alongside Danielle Stokdyk and Jeff Morton.

Creating Reboot required Levitan to formulate not one but two series: Reboot and Step Right Up. “It’s always tricky, because in wanting to bring this cast together, I had to reverse engineer a show that would make sense, but it was very fun to do,” Levitan says. “The fact that [Step Right Up] wasn’t the greatest and isn’t probably the greatest show on Earth makes it a lot easier to write.”

Large tables are placed horizontally in a living room set. Around the table are actors Rachel Bloom, Keegan-Michael Key, Judy Greer, Johnny Knoxville, Callum Worthy, and Paul Reiser. Each have name plates on the table in front of them reading their character names along with scripts. Also on the table are boxes of tissues, bottles of water, and black containers holding dozens of pencils and pens.

The cast boasts industry veterans who have also starred in and worked on television series. In Reboot, the actors embark on a meta journey portraying the character as well as the behind the scenes aspects of creating a show.

“It’s very cool that that a lot of us are creators, and it speaks to Steve and everyone’s urge to collaborate,” Bloom says. “I was basically not playing myself, but a version of myself—that didn’t have to worry about also being on camera.”

Key adds, “There is a universality about the issues, problems, and fears that the people face, and the dreams and hopes that they have. It does reflect quite a lot of the issues that I would deal with on Key and Peele.”

Yu shared that her character is loosely based off Modern Family writer Elaine Ko. In the series, Elaine is the newly appointed vice president of comedy, a punchline that Hulu isn’t afraid to poke fun at with the ever-changing hierarchy of the entertainment industry. “The Hulu executives kept saying that Krista’s character was really the hero of this piece,” Levitan says.

“I remember having a meeting at a major network and being told that someone just became head of comedy, and two months earlier they were head of drama,” Reiser says with a laugh.

Comedy aside, Reboot also serves as a redemption series. “These people are getting a second chance to reboot their lives,” Levitan explains. “One of the themes of the show is when life hands you one of those rare second chances, you try your best not to blow it.

Andor Stars Unite for an Out of This World Launch Event

By Andie Hagemann

We’ve got eyes on the rebel spies! On Thursday, stars from Lucasfilm’s Andor gathered for a galactic launch event at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood. With action, adventure, and suspense filmed against a cinematic landscape, the first three episodes of Season 1 premiere exclusively on Disney+ on Wednesday, September 21.

Stars Diego Luna, Genevieve O’Reilly, Adria Arjona, Kyle Soller, Fiona Shaw, and Ben Bailey Smith were joined by filmmakers and executives Tony Gilroy, Kathleen Kennedy, Sanne Wohlenberg, Michelle Rejwan, Toby Haynes, Benjamin Caron, Dan Gilroy, Beau Willimon, John Gilroy, and Nicholas Britell for a walk down the red carpet.

Andor, a spy thriller from Lucasfilm filmed over two 12-episode seasons, takes place five years before the events of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. The era featured in Andor is filled with danger, deception, and intrigue where Cassian (Luna) will embark on the path that is destined to turn him into a rebel hero. Andorpresents Star Wars from a different perspective, focusing on everyday people whose lives are affected by the Empire. The decisions they make have real consequences, and the stakes for them—and the galaxy—couldn’t be higher.  

Haynes, White, and Caron direct specific episodes, and Luna, Kennedy, Tony Gilroy, Wohlenberg, and Rejwan executive produce. Tony Gilroy is also the creator and showrunner.  

See photos from the launch event by clicking the photo, below:

Celebrating Norman Lear: 100 Years of Music and Laughter—Plus More in News Briefs

By Courtney Potter

Additional Guests Announced for ABC’s Norman Lear: 100 Years of Music and Laughter

It’s not every day you turn 100… and ABC is making sure that iconic TV producer Norman Lear is feeling the milestone-birthday love, thanks to an all-new special airing next week. The one-night-only celebration features intimate conversations, special performances, and surprise reunions that pay homage to the man behind some of television’s greatest stories in celebration of his 100th trip ’round the sun.

Celebrity attendees a-plenty—as well as musical and comedy performers—are set to appear on Norman Lear: 100 Years of Music and Laughter; recent additions to the guest list include Asante Blackk, George Clooney, Laverne Cox, Isabella Gomez, Emily Hampshire, Tom Hanks, Rita Moreno, Ms. Pat, Jay Pharoah, Rob Reiner, Aida Rodriguez, and George Wallace. Special musical performances paying tribute to legendary sitcom theme songs will also be featured throughout the evening and will be performed by Disney Legends Anthony Anderson, Tracee Ellis Ross, and Kristen Bell—as well as Ledisi, Justina Machado, Kelly Rowland, Amber Stevens West, Michelle Williams, and others.

As previously announced, Jennifer Aniston, Jimmy Kimmel, Amy Poehler, and Octavia Spencer are also set to appear in the special.

Look for Norman Lear: 100 Years of Music and Laughter on Thursday, September 22 at 9 p.m. EDT on ABC, and available the next day on Hulu.

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Weekend Presented by State Farm®

Looking to relax a little this weekend with some quality couch time and some amazing content from around the worlds of Disney? Look no further than an all-new episode of Hamster & Gretel on Disney Channel; a presentation of Moana on Freeform; new episodes of Celebrity Family Feud and The $100,000 Pyramid on ABC; and so much more.

In a trio of character posters from 20th Century Studios’ Amsterdam, actors Christian Bale, Margot Robbie, and John David Washington are seen in period clothing—Bale and Washington in tuxedos and Robbie in a sleeveless dress—set against a green and yellow background. Their names are seen at the top of their respective images, and the name of the film—as well as a big-city skyline—is seen at the bottom.

Character Posters Revealed for 20th Century Studios’ Amsterdam

The latest film from acclaimed writer and director David O. Russell, Amsterdam, doesn’t arrive for a few more weeks—but the good folks at 20th Century Studios are tiding us over with some very cool, just-revealed character posters!

The posters feature characters brought to life onscreen by Christian Bale, Margot Robbie, John David Washington, Chris Rock, Anya Taylor-Joy, Zoe Saldaña, Mike Myers, Michael Shannon, Timothy Olyphant, Andrea Riseborough, Taylor Swift, Matthias Schoenaerts, and Alessandro Nivola, with Rami Malek and Robert De Niro.

From 20th Century Studios and New Regency, the film is an original crime epic about three close friends (Bale, Robbie, and Washington) who find themselves at the center of one of the most shocking secret plots in American history. It’s a fascinating and richly intricate tale that brilliantly weaves historical fact with fiction for a timely, cinematic experience.

Look for Amsterdam exclusively in theaters beginning October 7!

All The Expo News That’s Fit to Post… 

D23 Expo 2022 was truly incredible—we still can’t get over all the exciting news that was announced… or all the amazing performances (Electric Mayhem forever!)… or the spectacular exhibits and pavilions and displays (Walt’s Plane was especially cool)… not to mention the Mousequerade costume contest… If you missed any of it, don’t fret: Take a spin through our Expo news landing page and relive the magic!

Coming to PlayStation VR2 in 2023:Star Wars: Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge – Enhanced Edition

News for the gamers amongst us: With the PlayStation VR2 soon to be released, have you ever wondered what it would be like to travel to a galaxy far, far away with that headset? Well, now you can with Star Wars: Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge – Enhanced Edition from ILMxLAB.

In development for PlayStation VR2 and set to launch in 2023, this immersive VR game has been “upgraded in every way to take advantage of what’s possible on PlayStation VR2,” producer Harvey Whitney recently told our pals at the Disney Parks Blog. Eye-tracking cameras in the headset will follow players’ line of sight, and dynamic soundscapes will surround them in rich 3D audio for the ultimate gaming experience. PlayStation VR2’s Sense controllers and headset will also provide real-time haptic feedback to make you feel like you’re actually in the game.

Playing as a droid repair technician, you will be swept into a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with help from new characters and fan favorites such as Jedi Master Yoda (Frank Oz), R2-D2, C-3PO (Anthony Daniels), and Dok-Ondar (Cory Rouse). You might even become a bounty hunter or a Jedi through tales from the Azumel bartender in Seezelslak’s Cantina.

Stay tuned for more info as it gets closer to the headset’s launch…

Premiere Date Announced for First of The Owl House’s Final Three Specials

The good folks at Disney Branded Television just announced the premiere date for the first of three final specials for its Peabody Award-winning series The Owl House. You’ll want to mark your calendar—so click here to get the scoop on all things Boiling Isles, plus news about brand-new apparel available via Amazon and children’s books from Disney Publishing Group.

An image of the Disney Dream cruise ship sailing in open water. It’s set against a blue-sky background, with some whispy clouds. The ship is churning up some water toward the bow, as it’s moving through the ocean.

Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Dream Sailing from Miami

Here’s some news any vacationing fans ’n’ friends can use: The Disney Dream will continue to set sail out of Miami, Florida, this fall and winter. From the AquaDuck water coaster and Star Wars: Millennium Falcon kids’ club, to a Beauty and the Beast stage show, the Disney Dream has something for everyone—and now you can plan a sun-filled holiday vacation when it might be just a tad too cold in your usual neck of the woods…

Every cruise from Miami features a stop at Disney’s private island paradise, Castaway Cay. Additionally, three- and four-night cruises from Miami call on Nassau, Bahamas, while five-night cruises include a stop at either Grand Cayman or Cozumel, Mexico. One special five-night sailing features two stops at Castaway Cay for even more fun in the sun, along with a call on Nassau. For more information, visit DisneyCruiseLine.com.

ICYMI: Congratulations to The Walt Disney Company’s 2022 Primetime Emmy® Award Winners

Just after we got back from D23 Expo, there was another big event to cover—the 2022 Primetime Emmy®Awards! The Walt Disney Company won 26 statuettes across its content brands and studios, including ABC Entertainment, Disney+, Disney Television Studios’ 20th Television and ABC Signature, Hulu Originals, Lucasfilm Ltd., Marvel Studios, Walt Disney Studios, and more. See the full list of amazing winners by clicking here!

The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder Cast Reflects Upon D23 Expo

By Scott Huver

Following their Sunday panel at D23 Expo 2022 presented by Visa®, the voice cast from The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder reconvened backstage to reflect on what it meant to them to experience the appreciation that fans have for the Disney+ animated series in person—especially after months of working on their own, virtually, in the recording booth.

Kyla Pratt (Penny Proud), Paula Jai Parker (Trudy Proud), JoMarie Payton (Suga Mama), Karen Malina White (Dijonay Jones), Alisa Reyes (LaCienega Boulevardez) and Soleil Moon Frye (Zoey Howzer) sat down with D23 and revealed the powerful effect seeing fans in person had on them.

“It was an amazing feeling,” said Pratt. “I think that’s the reason we all do this show and love being a part of this show is getting that energy from the people who watch it. And it's moved them in so many ways for decades. So being here, we enjoy being with each other as our own little Proud Family, but everybody is an extension. So everybody who sees us and loves us and loves the show is a part of the Proud Family in some way, so being able to see them and spend time with them is an amazing feeling.”

Her co-star Payton agreed. “To listen to some of the stories that we’ve heard about how we helped them navigate through issues and life challenges and things like that, it’s just sometimes overwhelming to hear—which makes us even want to be better and better at what we do.”

It was especially gratifying to see a rainbow of ages, races and generations represented in the audience, “all different walks of life,” said Pratt. “That’s what speaks volumes about The Proud Family… we relate to every single person. It doesn’t matter where you're from, or what you look like or how you identify.”

“We really don’t know how we affect and touch people until we come to places like D23,” said Parker. “And we see people wearing our clothing and carrying our bags and telling us these stories. So it’s very important. This is why we do it.”

For Reyes, interacting with fans was especially poignant. “It was emotional, especially with me being a new mom with a 1-year-old,” she shared. “We had a Puerto Rican woman who said that she just resonated with all of us and that her daughter watches [our show] now… I think that for me, it was the full-circle moment, just the fact that we’ve impacted such a beautiful, diverse cultural community with so many topics that we weren’t really talking about before, but now we can. I think for me that’s what’s just life-changing.”

“It was really beautiful to hear these incredible people talking about how they felt represented and connected,” added Frye. “To see they’re such huge fans of The Proud Family and this beautiful community that loves each other so much is incredibly inspiring.”

Here's a gallery from The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder panel at D23 Expo.