Are You a Disney Expert? Try This Week’s Trivia Challenge!

As a member of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, you know your magic! This week we’re putting your D23 Expo knowledge to the test to see if you are the ultimate Disney fan.

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

Correct! Wrong!

Japan is the only country other than the United States that has hosted its own D23 Expo!

Are You a Disney Expert? Try This Week’s Trivia Challenge!
You are the ultimate Disney fan!
Looks like you are a Disney expert! Thank you for participating in this week’s Trivia Challenge. We’ll see you next week for your chance to uphold your title as the ultimate Disney fan!
Just keep swimming! Just keep swimming!
Thank you for participating in this week’s Trivia Challenge! These questions are tricky, so don’t stop swimming yet. We’ll see you next week for your chance to earn the title of the ultimate Disney fan!

Disney+ Day Kicks Off with Surprise Release of BTS PERMISSION TO DANCE ON STAGE – LA and a Sneak Peek at Andor

By Zach Johnson

In celebration of Disney+ Day, BTS PERMISSION TO DANCE ON STAGE – LA—the electrifying concert film from global superstars BTS—and a special sneak peek at Lucasfilm’s upcoming Disney+ Original series Andor are now streaming on Disney+.

BTS: PERMISSION TO DANCE ON STAGE – LA showcases the live performances of the BTS concerts at Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium in late 2021 (November 27–28 and December 1–2). The concert film is stage-focused and includes performances of the Grammy®-nominated music group’s hit songs “Dynamite,” “Butter,” and “Permission to Dance.” BTS, an acronym of Bangtan Sonyeondan or “Beyond the Scene,” is a South Korean boy band that has been capturing the hearts of millions of fans globally since its debut in June 2013. RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook make up group. The film is produced by HYBE and directed by Sam Wrench and Junsoo Park.

Andor, premiering September 21 with three episodes, explores a new perspective from the Star Wars galaxy, focusing on Cassian Andor’s journey to discover the difference he can make. The series brings forward the tale of the burgeoning rebellion against the Empire and how people and planets became involved. It’s an era filled with danger, deception, and intrigue—one in which Cassian will embark on the path that is destined to turn him into a rebel hero. Diego Luna reprises his role as Cassian Andor from Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and is joined by cast members Genevieve O’Reilly, Stellan Skarsgård, Adria Arjona, Denise Gough, Kyle Soller, and Fiona Shaw. The series’ executive producers are Kathleen Kennedy, Tony Gilroy, Sanne Wohlenberg, Diego Luna, and Michelle Rejwan. Tony Gilroy serves as both creator and showrunner.

The Disney+ Day content lineup features exciting global premieres from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, The Simpsons, and more. As previously announced, Marvel Studios’ Thor: Love and Thunder, Pinocchio, a new episode of She-Hulk: Attorney at Law, Cars on the Road, Obi-Wan Kenobi: A Jedi’s Return, Remembering, Growing Up, Epic Adventures with Bertie Gregory, Dancing with the Stars: The Pros’ Most Memorable Dances, Tierra Incógnita, Marvel Studios Assembled: The Making of Thor: Love and Thunder, the Frozen and Frozen 2 Sing-Alongs, and Welcome to the Club, a new short from The Simpsons, are now streaming on Disney+.

This year, Disney+ Day leads into D23 Expo: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa®, running from Friday, September 9, through Sunday, September 11, in Anaheim, California. Hosted by Jordan Fisher and Ashley Eckstein, Disney+ will stream recaps of the previous day’s most exciting Disney+ announcements, show viewers the best moments from the show floor, and go behind the scenes with exclusive content, on the service at 8 a.m. PT on both Saturday, September 10, and Sunday, September 11. Select trailers newly released during D23 Expo will also be available on the streaming service.

As previously announced, new and eligible returning subscribers can get one month of Disney+ for $1.99 by clicking here before Monday, September 19, at 11:59 p.m. PT to enjoy all of the Disney+ Day premieres and receive added value with their subscription with the ultimate Disney+ Day collection of limited-time offers, experiences, and perks.

Fun Things To Do During D23 Expo 2022

By the D23 team

D23 Ultimate Fan Lounge Presented by Amazon

The D23 Ultimate Fan Lounge Presented by Amazon is a free-flowing relaxation area brought to you by D23: The Official Disney Fan Club where D23 Expo attendees can recharge and be transported to the world of Disney. D23 Gold Members, redeem your exclusive D23 Expo gift here! Not a D23 Gold Member? Visit JoinD23.com to sign up!

Mickey Mouse One: Walt’s Plane Presented by Amazon

Experience the ultimate sky-high journey by visiting Walt Disney’s Grumman Gulfstream I airplane, which will be on display at D23 Expo. To accompany the return of this piece of Disney history, which has had its exterior restored and will be available for guests to see in the Arena of the Anaheim Convention Center, the Walt Disney Archives has curated an all-new exhibit featuring specially selected items that represent the history of the aircraft.

Schedule a time to enter the Exhibit with a Virtual Boarding Pass! To request a Virtual Boarding Pass, make your way to the Arena Lobby at the North end of the show floor, where you will find signage with a QR Code. Scan the QR Code using your mobile device and follow the on-screen instructions to book your return time for entrance. QR Code signage is also available in Hall A at the D23 Ultimate Fan Lounge and at the Amazon Booth. A Standby Queue will also be available.

When returning for entry, arrive at the Arena Lobby 15 minutes prior to the start of your time slot.

If you have any trouble booking a Virtual Boarding Pass or any other inquiries, please visit the Guest Services Help Desk located in the North end of the Arena. Virtual Boarding Passes are subject to availability.

D23 Expo Mousequerade

Join host Nina West and guest judges Yvette Nicole Brown, Ashley Eckstein, and Ally Maki for the Ultimate Disney Costume Contest! And new this year, fans watching the show in person and at home will be able to cast their vote for “Fan Favorite” and be entered for a chance to win a D23 Prize Pack!*

*NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. A purchase will not increase your chances of winning. Sweepstakes begins at approximately 6:00 PM PT on 9/9/22 and ends at approximately 7:30 PM PT (depending on when the “Cast of Characters” category winner is announced) on 9/9/22. Open only to legal residents of 50 US/DC who are 18 years or older who are a D23 Member (General or Gold Membership) at the time of entry. Click Here for Official Rules, including how to enter, odds, prize details and restrictions. Void where prohibited. Msg&data rates may apply. Sponsor: Disney Worldwide Services, Inc. dba D23 Worldwide, 500 Buena Vista Street, Burbank, CA 91521.

D23 Expo Cosplay Meetups

Cosplayers, assemble! This year, we are bringing back the official Cosplay Meet-Up** for Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars fans, exclusively at the D23 Expo 2022. All you need is to suit up and grab your D23 Expo ticket—meet us at the Grand Plaza Fountain during the times below to snap a pic and immortalize your cosplay creation. All D23 Expo attendees are welcome to join the jamboree!

Friday, September 9
1:00 – 1:30 p.m.
Heroes & Villains

Saturday, September 10
1:00 – 1:30 p.m.
Marvel

3:00 – 3:30 p.m.
Star Wars

Sunday, September 11
1:00 – 1:30 p.m.
Princesses & Parks

**D23 Expo 2022 admission required

D23 Expo Shopping

Here’s more to know about shopping at D23 Expo 2022, with Virtual Queues at select retail locations. Be sure to download or update the D23 Expo App and Disneyland Resort App.

Step 1: Open the D23 Expo App and navigate to the retail location.

Step 2: Tap “Join Virtual Queue” at your retail location and request to join at 6 a.m. or 1 p.m. PT. You do not need to be at the Anaheim Convention Center to enter the virtual queue.

Step 3: Log in to the Disneyland Resort App, select the number of guests, and tap “Join Virtual Queue.”

Step 4: A confirmation screen will appear with an estimated wait time.

Step 5: You will receive a push notification when your group time is ready. Notifications will begin after 10 a.m. PT, and you will have one hour to arrive back at your selected retail location after you have been notified.

Note: We think you’ll love Virtual Queues because you’ll be able to explore the show floor while you wait, but there may still be a queue outside of your retail location. Joining the Virtual Queue does not grant any or immediate access to the D23 Expo or any experience. Virtual Queues are limited in capacity and subject to availability.

Be the First to Experience DisneyMe

Four cartoon-y, round-headed “DisneyMe” characters, each dressed in a different Disney-themed outfit: Jedi Robes, Belle’s yellow dress, a Mouse Ear hat, and a pirate hat. The characters are smiling and surrounded by sparkles while the text “The Quest starts on September 8. DisneyMe: D23 Expo Quest.”

Guests at the D23 Expo will get first access to DisneyMe, an all-new digital avatar in the Play Disney Parks app. This experience empowers guests to express their Disney style by creating their own unique DisneyMe. To celebrate the launch of DisneyMe, as part of Disney Uncharted Adventure on the Disney Wish, guests at the D23 Expo will be invited to a quest that can only be completed at the Expo! Attendees will uncover specially designed Disney Wish and D23 Expo digital clothing and accessories for their DisneyMe around the show floor.

D23 Expo guests will need to download the latest Play Disney Parks app to be ready to create their DisneyMe and join the DisneyMe D23 Expo Quest during the convention.***

***Message, data, and roaming rates may apply. Availability subject to handset limitations, and features may vary by handset, service provider, or otherwise. Coverage not available everywhere. Guests under age 18 need their parents’ permission first. Some features require separate theme park admission.

Disneyland Resort

Are you the ultimate Disney Halloween fan? Celebrate the Halloween season during your D23 Expo weekend with spellbinding thrills and chills throughout the Disneyland Resort! Be sure to get your tickets and make a theme park reservation today! Visit Disneyland.com for details.

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Celebrate Disney+ Day with Special Offers and Perks

In celebration of Disney+ Day on September 8, fans are invited to join the Disney+ community with a special introductory offer and receive even more value with their subscription with the ultimate collection of limited time offers, experiences, and perks. Starting today at 9 p.m. PT through Monday, September 19, at 11:59 p.m. PT, new and returning subscribers can get one month of Disney+ for $1.99 by clicking here.

The Disney+ Day celebration leads into D23 Expo: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa® in Anaheim, California, on September 9, 10, and 11, where subscribers in attendance can receive access to even more onsite perks—and also be treated to exciting announcements and first-looks at upcoming Disney+ Originals.

Subscriber Perks in Honor of Disney+ Day

Both existing and new subscribers can receive the following perks in celebration of Disney+ Day starting September 8 at 12 a.m. PT/3 a.m. ET:

  • Special Access to shopDisney Merchandise: Disney+ subscribers can receive special access to a curated collection of shopDisney merchandise. This custom selection of designs is inspired by favorite Disney+ Day premieres, Disney+ Originals, and more.
  • Disney Cruise Line Offer: Watch the stories you love come to life on a Disney cruise with a special offer for Disney+ subscribers. Third and fourth guests sail free with two full-fare guests in the same stateroom. Disney+ subscribers can book up to two staterooms with this offer, available starting September 8 on select sailings aboard the Disney Magic, Disney Dream, and Disney Fantasy departing January–April 2023, in select stateroom categories.*
  • Walt Disney World Resort Offer: Experience holiday fun during the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary Celebration! Disney+ subscribers can be on the lookout for a special holiday offer at select Disney Resort hotels. Click here starting September 8 for additional details.
  • National Geographic Digital Subscription Offer: Disney+ subscribers can get a six-month free trial to Nat Geo Digital. Enjoy subscriber-exclusive content, every page of every issue ever published in our digital archive, and access stories anywhere with the ad-free Nat Geo mobile app.
  • Uber One Offer: Extended in celebration of Disney+ Day, Disney+ subscribers get six free months of Uber One membership, plus $25 off their first Uber Eats order.
  • Disney Movie Insiders Bonus Points: When subscribers link their Disney+ account to their Disney Movie Insiders account by September 30, they earn 150 bonus points and continue to earn 50 points per month as long as their active accounts are linked. It's free to join Disney Movie Insiders, and members can redeem points for rewards, experiences, and more.
  • Disney Parks Early Entry: On September 8, Disney+ subscribers and their party with theme park admission and reservations are invited to enter the theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, Disneyland Resort in California, and Disneyland Park at Disneyland Paris 30 minutes before regular park open to extend the celebrations.**
  • Disney+ Fan-Favorite Screenings at AMC Theatres: From September 8-19, select AMC Theatres will celebrate Disney+ Day with screenings of fan-favorite movies including Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Encanto, Lucasfilm’s Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, Marvel Studios’ Thor: Ragnarok, Disney and Pixar’s Cars, and Disney’s Newsies. Tickets are $5 per screening and available to everyone. Attendees will receive a free Disney+ poster, while supplies last. Plus, a special concessions offer will be available for Disney+ subscribers.

Perks for Disney+ Subscribers at D23 Expo

Disney+ subscribers attending D23 Expo can continue the Disney+ Day celebration with special experiences, giveaways, and offers at the convention. To access the following perks, subscribers can pick up their Disney+ Subscriber Pass September 8 through September 11 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at D23 Expo Will Call and the Arena Box Office at the Anaheim Convention Center Arena. To confirm your subscriber pass, guests will need to scan their valid D23 Expo badge.

  • Subscriber Screening: On September 8, subscribers and their families heading to D23 Expo are invited to celebrate Disney+ Day with a special screening under the stars of the Disney+ Day Premiere, Pinocchio, at the Hilton Anaheim located adjacent to the Anaheim Convention Center. This subscriber-only event will jumpstart the celebration through D23 Expo weekend with special content, a live DJ, a volunteer opportunity, refreshments, giveaways, and more. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. and the screening will begin at 7 p.m. To access the screening, subscribers must show their Disney+ Subscriber Pass. Space is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Offer Spots: Throughout the weekend, Disney+ subscribers attending D23 Expo will be able to unlock special giveaways or promotions at Offer Spots on the show floor when they present their Disney+ Subscriber Pass. In the Disney+ Innovation Lounge, Disney+ subscribers and D23 Gold Members will receive a Disney+ Collectible Card pack featuring custom illustrations celebrating some of the most popular current and upcoming Disney+ movies and shows.
  • Early Access to Adidas Ultraboost DNA x Marvel Legacy Black Panther Shoe: Subscribers at D23 Expo can sign up for early access to the new Adidas shoe inspired by Wakandan symbols and the iconic costume of the legendary Marvel character Black Panther. Subscribers can stop by the Disney+ Innovation Lounge for a sneak peek at the new shoe, plus get on the list for a limited drop available soon.
  • Citizen: Citizen invites guests at D23 Expo to celebrate “moments in time,” and in celebration of the D23 Expo and Disney+ Day, will offer select products available just for Disney+ subscribers—including a new watch inspired by the Disney+ Day premiere Marvel Studios’ Thor: Love and Thunder. Attendees can stop by the Disney+ Innovation Lounge or the Citizen booth to learn more.
  • CORKCICLE ®: Experience hero hydration with select CORKCICLE products available at D23 Expo, just for Disney+ subscribers. Subscribers will be able to purchase 24 oz. tumblers inspired by popular Marvel characters Thor and Loki. CORKCICLE will also be offering Disney+ subscribers early access to a new collection inspired by Snow White. Attendees can stop by the Disney+ Innovation Lounge or the CORKCICLE booth to learn more.

Additional Disney+ Day Celebrations from Across the Company

*Excludes taxes, fees and port expenses of approximately $89–$202 per person depending on the itinerary selected (all amounts subject to change). Taxes, Fees and Port Expenses for all guests are not included and are due at time of final payment. Offer excludes suites and categories with restrictions (VGT, OGT and IGT). Offer only available to Disney+ subscribers who are residents of the U.S. and Canada. Disney+ subscriber can book up to two staterooms with this offer; two full-fare guests must stay in each stateroom. The Disney+ subscriber must be the primary guest on the reservation and must sail in one of the staterooms booked with the offer. Proof of Disney+ subscription required. If Disney+ subscription cannot be verified, reservation will be cancelled with applicable cancellation fees. Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotions. Valid on new and existing reservations. Offer is subject to Disney Cruise Line Terms and Conditions. The number of staterooms allocated for this offer is limited. Stateroom accommodations for four or more guests are limited and based on availability at the time of booking. Offer valid through March 1, 2023

**Guests may be required to verify that they are a Disney+ subscriber by displaying their logged-in home screen on the Disney+ app via their phone to enter early and to receive special benefits at the parks. Please be sure to download the Disney+ app and sign in prior to arrival. 

***shopDisney Free Shipping Promotion Restrictions: Valid September 8, 2022 (12:00 am PT) through September 8, 2022 (11:59 p.m. PT) on select, in-stock items purchased via phone orders and orders placed online at shopDisney.com. Not valid on purchases made at Disney Store retail and outlet locations or Disney Parks and Resorts locations. Free Shipping applies to Standard Delivery on orders sent to a single shipment address in the United States. Offer excludes Additional Shipping & Handling charges, D23 Memberships, gift wrap & gift boxes. Additional Shipping & Handling applies for select items or shipments to more than one shipment address. Merchandise subject to availability. Valid packing slip required for returns and exchanges. Offer subject to restrictions and change without notice. Void where prohibited.

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Meet Benjamin Evan Ainsworth, the Real Boy Behind Pinocchio

By Zach Johnson

There wood be no Pinocchio without Benjamin Evan Ainsworth.

The young actor gives a solid performance as a wooden puppet who embarks on a thrilling adventure to become a real boy in Pinocchio, debuting on Disney+ Day. Directed by Academy Award® winner Robert Zemeckis, the live-action and CGI retelling of the beloved tale also stars Tom Hanks as Geppetto, Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Jiminy Cricket, Cynthia Erivo as the Blue Fairy, Keegan-Michael Key as “Honest” John, Lorraine Bracco as Sofia the Seagull (a new character), and Luke Evans as The Coachman. Before the film begins streaming on Thursday, September 8, Ainsworth joined D23: The Official Disney Fan Club in a Q&A, sharing secrets from set.

D23: How did you react when you discovered you’d won the role of Pinocchio?
Benjamin Evan Ainsworth (BEA): I was kind of shocked—and ecstatic! I was speechless. Obviously, it was an honor to audition with Robert Zemeckis, let alone land the role, and then to be on set and to do the whole process with them, too? I was really excited.

D23: What makes the story of Pinocchio so timeless?
BEA: I remember when I was younger, watching [the animated] Pinocchio, and it’s a lovely story. It’s something you remember, and he’s an iconic character. There are still morals that relate to today’s society, like being truthful. The world is an exciting place, but you have to ground yourself, and you must stay kind and truthful as you explore it.

D23: You provide the voice of Pinocchio in this film, but you were on set every day reading your lines. How did it feel to actually see the world of Pinocchio come to life?
BEA: Oh, it was amazing! It was shot all in this massive studio, called Cardington Studios [in England]—and it was as big as the Titanic! It was this massive place where they kept the zeppelins in the World War. It’s since been converted, and they basically had all of the locations from Pinocchio in this one place, which was so special and cool.

The Blue Fairy, played by Cynthia Erivo, shimmers in blue light as she waves her magic wand in front of the wooden puppet Pinocchio, voiced by Benjamin Evan Ainsworth. Pinocchio is seated in Geppetto’s dimly lit woodshop, and Jiminy Cricket is standing behind him, watching the magical moment unfold.

D23: What was the dialogue recording process like?
BEA: The first bit of recording I did was just with a microphone [in a studio] with Robert Zemeckis. We sat down and recorded the whole movie, but that was just the first part of it. And then we went on set, and I was behind the camera feeding in lines for everyone else. I had a microphone on that picked up any voice lines that I said on set.

D23: What was your favorite part about being directed by Robert Zemeckis?
BEA: I learned a lot about the technical side of things. Being off camera and feeding in lines, I was able to see how the CGI, the live action, the visual effects, and the special effects all come together. Robert was a master at that. Like, I’d see him say, ‘Oh, that green screen needs to go this way.’ He was in control of everything. It was cool to see.

D23: What did you learn from working with Tom Hanks?
BEA: I remember learning so much—not just about the work, but about his career and about all of these amazing things he and Robert Zemeckis had done in the past. I remember in the read-through, before filming, Tom Hanks was sitting to the left of me, Robert Zemeckis was sitting to the right of me, and they were sharing these stories about old films they’d shot together and older Disney movies that they know and love.

D23: How does it feel to reimagine this beloved story—and in such great company?
BEA: It’s literally like a dream come true, right? I would often step back and be like, “Oh, my gosh! This is what I’m actually doing.” It’s a lot of fun. A few people I didn’t actually get to meet when I was shooting, because some of the actors didn’t come in for the live-action bit. That could be a bit confusing, between who was there and who wasn’t—but it was amazing to know that these people were all [part of] the same thing.

D23: What fresh spin are you putting on this version of Pinocchio?
BEA: Well, there’s a few cool new things—maybe a few new songs, a few new characters here and there. I don’t want to spoil too much. Watch it on Disney+ to see!

Behind the Scenes of Nat Geo and Disney: Decades of Inspiration

By the National Geographic Image Collection

This year at D23 Expo, National Geographic is thrilled to offer a brand-new presentation on the Walt Disney Archives Stage, chronicling the incredibly inspiring (and long!) history that National Geographic and The Walt Disney Company have enjoyed for years. In fact, the two have been collaborating and sparking curiosity together for decades!

This exciting presentation, 100 Years of Exploring the World Through Storytelling, will feature Ashley Thomas, who manages the incredible National Geographic Image Collection—the vast digital archive of National Geographic that includes photographs, artwork, maps, graphics, videos, and virtual reality. The collection houses images dating back well over 100 years, receiving images daily from photographers and other talent in the field.

At the heart of National Geographic is the ability to “inspire the explorer in everyone,” and it is something that the brand has been doing for years, including inspiring the creative minds at The Walt Disney Company. Over the decades, many of Disney’s films, characters, animated worlds, adventures, sets, and more have been inspired, and continue to be inspired, by National Geographic. The photographs, artwork, and written word in the National Geographic magazine have served as a reference and source of enrichment for years.

Egypt’s Colossi of Memnon are just one of many images from National Geographic magazine that have inspired Disney stories over the years. From the National Geographic Image Collection.

The Colossi of Memnon, interpreted by Carl Barks for Donald Duck and the Mummy’s Ring from 1943. Barks put the figures in the water to be able to illustrate the ducks in the sailboat for the final scene of the comic book.

In the last century, Disney animators, artists, and Imagineers have all found inspiration in the pages of National Geographic. Disney Legend and long-time Donald Duck cartoonist Carl Barks relied heavily on his vast collection of National Geographic magazines during his storied career. Barks was able to bring real world locations and landmarks, such as the Colossi, to life through the Duck adventures by using National Geographic photography as the inspiration. In the presentation, we will show side by side imagery from the Donald Duck and the Mummy’s Ring comic (1943) and images from National Geographic magazine articles—examples of art imitating life as the ducks go on a journey up the Nile River.

Highlighting this rich history, Thomas’ presentation at D23 Expo even includes exclusive video interviews with both Disney Legend Tony Baxter and Walt Disney Imagineering’s Tom Fitzgerald. For a great example of the real-life inspiration found in the Jungle Cruise have found over the years, dive into our series here!

A peek inside the iconic August 1963 issue of National Geographic.

In fact, the August 1963 issue of the magazine featured a cover article on the collaborations between the two brands, which went on to become an iconic issue for National Geographic and Disney fans alike! And, as a special opportunity during this D23 Expo session, all guests in attendance will receive an exclusive reprint of the magazine!

If you are attending D23 Expo, don’t miss 100 Years of Exploring the World Through Storytelling on the Walt Disney Archives Stage on Sunday, September 11, at 10 a.m.!

See the full D23 Expo schedule—including many more presentations from our friends at National Geographic—here!

An Inside Track on Cars on the Road

By Alison Stateman

Get ready to gear up for a road trip of epic proportions. On September 8, in celebration of Disney+ Day, Cars fans will be treated to a new series of animated shorts from Disney and Pixar that takes two beloved characters on a journey across America.

Cars on the Road follows Lightning McQueen (voiced by Owen Wilson) and his best friend Mater (voiced by Larry the Cable Guy) as they head east from Radiator Springs on a cross-country road trip to meet up with Mater’s sister for her wedding.

“This is the coolest thing I’ve ever done in my entire life. And coming back to do the voice has just been fantastic,” says Larry the Cable Guy, the longtime voice of Mater. “It’s so much fun doing it with Owen because we both know each other so well by now with these characters. The series is unbelievable, and it’s hilarious.”

The nine-episode Original series, produced by Marc Sondheimer, serves as a reunion of not just the two lead actors—who last worked together on Cars 3 in 2017—but also for Cars and Pixar collaborators Steve Purcell, Brian Fee, and Bobby Podesta, who helm three episodes a piece.

“All three of us have been involved in this franchise since the very beginning. We all go back to Cars 1. So, it’s in our DNA; it’s in our blood. We’re all just heavily rooted in these characters,” says Fee, who wrote and directed Cars 3. “I think the beauty, for me—the joy of working directly with these guys—is that we all have slightly different personalities and thumbprints, and that’s a resource. We kind of rely on each other to help fill in the gaps and make it better.”

During a recent press conference, the creative team shared why a road trip was the perfect vehicle for expanding upon the Cars franchise and the friendship between Lightning McQueen and Mater, while also tapping into their own memories of family road trips.

“When I was 8 years old, my family traveled from Ohio to San Francisco. And that trip stuck with me. I just remember every day was some new adventure,” explains Purcell, who directed Episodes 1, 2, and 8. “And in creating this series and writing these stories, it felt like a great opportunity to create something that was sort of modular—in that every step along the way could be a totally new location and totally new sensibility, and a totally new set of characters.”

“Our touchstones are Lightning McQueen and Mater, and we sort of put them through the wringer and see how their personalities play themselves out. It’s really fun,” he adds.

Lightning McQueen is chased by three ghostly car apparitions illuminated in green in the darkened hallway of a haunted hotel at night during a pit stop in the episode “Lights Out” of Cars on the Road., Lightning McQueen and Mater are chased by a “dino-ca” r” in the desert during a stop at Dino Park in the episode “Dino Park” of Cars on the Road.,Lightning McQueen and Mater, looking concerned, are surrounded by a post-apocalyptic-looking ensemble of aggressive roadsters who sport large spikes on their roofs, trunks, and hoods after being “carnapped.”

Indeed. The series finds the two besties traversing the country with pit-stops to locations including a “dino park,” a roadside circus, spooky campgrounds, and even a haunted hotel. Each episode is chock-full of homages to not only past road trips, but movie genres, directors, animators, and even a Disneyland attraction. For instance, the look and movement of the “dino-cars” in the second episode were inspired by the work of legendary visual effects artist Ray Harryhausen (The 7th Voyage of Sinbad, Clash of the Titans)—and there are nods to classic films.

Each episode is singular in terms of tone, look, direction, and music, courtesy of composer Jake Monaco who scored each installment.

“Music has been a part of the Cars world going back to the first film; it’s an integral part of it. And we wanted music to be a part of this as well,” says Fee.

For Sondheimer, partnering with Disney+ allowed them to step out of their usual production methods and expand their creative approach.

“To be able to tell a story, or a bunch of different stories, and put these characters in unique situations…works perfectly for these characters and this franchise. And to be able to have a partner like Disney+ that supports us all along the way—to [be able to] do different things with these characters and try out different ideas—is a perfect match.”

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Week

By Andie Hagemann

It’s nearly the best day of the year: Disney+ Day! On Thursday, September 8, the streamer will debut exciting films and series, and to commemorate the occasion, we’re joining in the celebration with a marathon. We present five titles to binge, including the streaming debut of Marvel Studios’ Thor: Love and Thunder.

An enormous, animated dinosaur-like car chases Lightning McQueen and Mater through a rural desert landscape. Mater is a brown, vintage tow truck with buck teeth. Lightning McQueen is a red sports car.

Cars on the Road—Disney+
Lightning McQueen (voiced by Owen Wilson) and Mater (voiced by Larry the Cable Guy) are back with all-new adventures! The series follows the dynamic duo as they head east from Radiator Springs on an epic cross-country road trip to visit Mater’s sister. Along the way, they encounter outrageous roadside attractions and meet new friends! All episodes are available upon launch.

Actor Natalie Portman portraying Mighty Thor wears metal armor and red cape. Behind her stands actor Chris Hemsworth portraying Thor wearing a similar metal chestplate and red cape. They stand inside a hall with brown beams seen behind them.

Thor: Love and Thunder—Disney+
Thor (Chris Hemsworth) is on a journey unlike anything he’s ever faced—one of self-discovery. But his efforts are interrupted by a galactic killer known as Gorr the God Butcher (Christian Bale), who seeks the exterminate all gods. Thor enlists the help of King Valkyrie (Tessa Thompson), Korg (Taika Waititi), and ex-girlfriend Jane Foster (Natalie Portman), who now wields Mjolnir as the Mighty Thor. Together, they embark upon a harrowing cosmic adventure to stop the God Butcher before it’s too late.

National Geographic Explorer Bertie Gregory sits in a large open-top vehicle with an attached camera dolly. He wears gray slacks and a dark blue top. He is filming a large lion in Zambia.

Epic Adventures with Bertie Gregory—Disney+
Embark on a journey of epic proportions with 29-year-old National Geographic Explorer Bertie Gregory through the most spectacular and secretive corners of the world! For weeks at a time, the award-winning cinematographer immerses himself into the animals’ lives to capture the untold stories of iconic creatures living in some of the harshest environments on our planet. From the icy worlds of Antarctica to coming face-to-face with lions in Zambia, this season is jam-packed with spectacular adventures!

Dancing with the Stars judge and professional dancer Derek Hough smiles at the judges’ table. He wears a black dress shirt and light pink suit jacket. The table reads “Dancing with the Stars.” Bright lights and embellishments surround him on the set.

Dancing with the Stars: The Pros’ Most Memorable Dances—Disney+
Ahead of the premiere of Dancing with the Stars Season 31, streaming live, exclusively on Disney+, the professional dancers are counting down the series’ 20 most memorable performances. Hosted by Derek Hough, Kym Johnson, Cheryl Burke, and Brandon Armstrong, the special highlights Mirrorball-winning performances, showstopping opening numbers, and celebrity mishaps.

Actor Tom Hanks portraying Geppetto bends down with arms resting on his thighs to speak to Pinocchio. They stand in front of the home’s porch. A CGI depiction of Pinocchio wears a yellow hat with a single black band and a white shirt, black vest, and red shorts. Hanks wears a khaki, long-sleeve shirt and brown slacks with gray socks.

Pinocchio—Disney+
The live-action and CGI retelling of the beloved story makes its long-awaited debut! Tom Hanks stars as Geppetto, the woodcarver who builds and treats Pinocchio (Benjamin Evan Ainsworth) as if he were his real son. Directed by Robert Zemeckis, the film also stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Jiminy Cricket, who serves as Pinocchio’s guide and “conscience”; Cynthia Erivo as the Blue Fairy; Keegan-Michael Key as “Honest” John; Lorraine Bracco as Sofia the Seagull, a new character; and Luke Evans as The Coachman.

Building a Fairytale: The Construction of Cinderella Castle, Part 1

By Matt Moryc and Maggie Evenson, Walt Disney Archives

A few miles south of Orlando, Florida, exists a fairytale castle more striking and revered than perhaps all the fortresses and towers of Europe. A structure that pierces the bluest skies and stands out for miles around an endless horizon of the purest green nature. Its surface radiates the intense Florida sunshine during the day and sustains the majesty at night with an array of multicolor lights, exciting projections and powerful fireworks. This dream-like edifice is called Cinderella Castle, and it sits in the heart of Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort.

Construction on Walt Disney World formally began in May 1967, and Cinderella Castle was one of the first structures to be erected on the site. This iconic building, according to an early Walt Disney World press release, “…emerged as a romanticized composite of such royal pleasure courts as Fontainebleau, Versailles and a dozen famed chateaux of the Loire Valley. Among them are Chenonceau, Chambord, and Chaumont…. These and many others combined with original Disney designs prepared 20 years ago…for Cinderella [1950]….”

Unlike the structures built in the Middle Ages, Cinderella Castle was fortified with 276 tons of steel, and crafted out of contemporary building materials such as fiberglass and plastic. Disney artisans created, sculpted, and prefabricated many of the Castle’s features such as turrets, glass mosaics, gargoyles, and imitation stonework. Soaring almost 200 feet into the air, Cinderella Castle sits atop a network of utility corridors (or “utilidors,” for short) where an army of Disney employees and facilities stay hidden from the view of guests who traverse the Magic Kingdom daily.

In honor of Cinderella Castle and the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World, here are a series of construction photos from the Walt Disney Archives Photo Library of one of the most iconic American landmarks and architectural achievements in the history of The Walt Disney Company.

Looking north toward Fantasyland, this image captures both the Main Street, U.S.A. utilidor (foreground) and the Fantasyland utilidor and Cinderella Castle foundation (background). The large opening in the steel is where the utilidor will pass beneath the Castle, which will be built overhead on the park’s second level. This system of passageways was designed with an emphasis on keeping backstage elements of the Magic Kingdom hidden from view of guests as not to disturb the carefully crafted environments of each land. Things such as trash removal, cafeterias, breakrooms, storage, office space, and utilities work are just some of the activities and allotted uses of the utilidors that exist just below the surface of the park.

This aerial view looking north shows the massive size of the Fantasyland utilidor that sits between Cinderella Castle and the back of the park. Behind the Castle foundations you can see the utilidor has been covered with what will become the second level of Magic Kingdom. The large, red steel at the top left corner is the building that will eventually house “it’s a small world,” and the body of water across from it is the beginnings of the foundation for 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. Also, notice that the utilidor passageway to Main Street, U.S.A. has been enclosed.

This northwest facing view shows that the utilidor passageway to Main Street, U.S.A. has been covered with dirt and the previously open ceiling of the Castle’s utilidor has been covered.

Scaffolding continues to rise in this shot looking northeast toward the front of Cinderella Castle.

An aerial view looking at the east facing side of Cinderella Castle. The area just beyond is where Adventureland, Frontierland, and Liberty Square will be built.

Many of the ornamental pieces of Cinderella Castle were prefabricated offsite and then delivered to the construction site and lifted into place by cranes.

A construction crew trucks an ornamental section of a Castle tower across the Magic Kingdom site.

The towers of Cinderella Castle rise in this aerial view of the backside of the Castle facing southeast.

Aerial view looking at the front of the Castle.

A shot of the Castle front taken from approximately where guests today ascend the west side ramp leading into the foyer. Notice the steel framework has been erected for the eventual clock above the entryway.

We hope you enjoyed part one of this two-part series chronicling the construction of Cinderella Castle. Check back with us soon for the exciting conclusion!  

Disney Junior Live Ticket Discount

Disney Jr Live
Where: Disney Junior Live On Tour: Costume Palooza
What: 10% discount for General Members 20% discount for Gold Members
Expires: September 30, 2022

D23 Members enjoy 10% off, and D23 Gold Members enjoy 20% off, Disney Junior Live On Tour: Costume Palooza tickets 

Dress up and join the party with Disney Junior Live On Tour: Costume Palooza, launching Friday, September 2 in Southern California. The all-new show features the first appearance of characters from Marvel’s Spidey and his Amazing Friends in addition to Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Doc McStuffins, the Puppy Dog Pals, and Alice from Disney Junior’s new hit series Alice’s Wonderland Bakery, live on stage. The immersive, interactive concert experience includes singing, dancing, acrobatics, and 3D special effects. It’ll feature favorite songs from hit Disney Junior series, as well as new original music. In Disney Junior Live On Tour: Costume Palooza, Mickey, Minnie, and their pals are getting ready to throw a huge costume party—but mysterious weather keeps interrupting the fun. Can Team Spidey help save the Costume Palooza?

*D23 Members get their discount on the following dates, in these cities:

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Showcased are the four 2025 D23 Gold Member Premiums: Disneyland 70th Collection, including The Happiest Place on Earth, a replica Disneyland Park entrance plaque, and a reproduction of the Disneyland Entrance plaque text draft; Gold Member Fan Pack including a Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey Mouse water bottle, crossbody bag, and hat; a Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey Mouse Spirit Jersey; and a 10-piece Pin Set.

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NOTE
*Promotion Terms: All tickets sales and offers subject to change without notice. Ticket discounts only available at locations and dates listed above. Offer expires September 30, 2022.