Take Flight with Avatar: The Way of Water Trailer—Plus More in News Briefs

By Courtney Potter

Avatar: The Way of Water: Coming to Theaters This December

Debuting exclusively in theaters ahead of Marvel Studios’ Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness—and now linked below, for a first or 31st viewing—is the brand-new teaser trailer for 20th Century Studios’ Avatar: The Way of Water. James Cameron’s first follow-up to Avatar, the highest-grossing film of all time, will open in theaters on Friday, December 16, 2022.

Set more than a decade after the events of the first film, Avatar: The Way of Water begins to tell the story of the Sully family (Jake, Neytiri, and their children)—the trouble that follows them; the lengths they go to keep each other safe; the battles they fight to stay alive; and the tragedies they endure. Directed and produced by Cameron, and produced by Jon Landau, the film stars Zoe Saldana (Neytiri), Sam Worthington (Jake Sully), Sigourney Weaver (Dr. Grace Augustine), Stephen Lang (Colonel Miles Quaritch), Cliff Curtis (Tonowari), Joel David Moore (Norm Spellman), CCH Pounder (Mo’at), Edie Falco (General Ardmore), Jemaine Clement (Dr. Ian Garvin), and Kate Winslet (Ronal).

Need a refresher in all things Pandora before the new film flies into theaters? You’re in luck: The studio will re-release Avatar on U.S. screens on Friday, September 23. Mark those calendars!

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

Submitted for your viewing pleasure: It’s the end of an era, as Disney Channel’s Amphibia airs its series finale. Plus, look for the network premiere of Underwater starring Kristen Stewart; the return of The Wonderful World of Disney to ABC; the premiere of Hulu’s Conversations with Friends (for mature audiences only, so keep the kidlets away); and much more.

Colorful poster for the Disney+ film Trevor: The Musical, with a young person standing, arm raised as if singing a big musical note, in front of a set modeled to look like a middle school hallway.

Off-Broadway Hit Trevor: The Musical Coming to Disney+ June 24 

Earlier this week, Disney+ announced the sure-to-be-memorable filmed version of the Off-Broadway stage production Trevor: The Musical will debut on Friday, June 24, exclusively on the streaming service.

Trevor: The Musical follows a charming 13-year-old on a turbulent journey of self-discovery. After an embarrassing incident at school, Trevor must summon the courage to forge his own path. The musical is based on the 1995 Academy Award®–winning short film Trevor, which ultimately inspired the nonprofit organization The Trevor Project—the world’s largest suicide prevention and mental health organization for LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning) young people.

Thirteen-year-old Holden William Hagelberger from Sugarland, Texas, was cast in the role of Trevor in Trevor: The Musical following a national virtual casting call with over 1,300 submissions. The 19-member company of Trevor: The Musical also features Mark Aguirre, Aaron Alcaraz, Ava Briglia, Sammy Dell, Tyler Joseph Gay, Ellie Kim, Colin Konstanty, Brigg Liberman, Diego Lucano, Alyssa Emily Marvin, Isabel Medina, Echo Deva Picone, Dan Rosales, Aryan Simhadri, Yasmeen Sulieman, Sally Wilfert, Aeriel Williams, and Jarrod Zimmerman.

Directed for the stage by Marc Bruni and for film by Robin Mishkin Abrams, with choreography by Josh Prince, Trevor: The Musical features book and lyrics by Dan Collins and music by Julianne Wick Davis.

Logo for Disney’s Summer Magic Quest, featuring EPCOT’s Spaceship Earth attraction set against a blue-and-black-striped background and colorful fireworks.

Disney’s Summer Magic Quest Special Premieres June 26

It’s back! Disney’s Summer Magic Quest, the third installment of Disney’s uber-popular Magic Quest specials, is set to debut on Sunday, June 26, at 7:00 p.m. EDT/PDT on Disney Channel (and streaming on Disney+ later this summer). The special follows ZOMBIES 3 stars Meg Donnelly, Pearce Joza, Kylee Russell, and Matt Cornett as they compete in a playful “battle royal” featuring all-new, all-monumental challenges. This time ’round, the quest will take place after dark inside EPCOT at Walt Disney World Resort—as part of The World’s Most Magical Celebration, honoring the 50th anniversary of the resort.

Beloved actress and comedian, and friend of D23, Yvette Nicole Brown (Disney+’s Big Shot)—who also hosted last December’s Disney’s Holiday Magic Quest—will return to host as the stars battle it out in a series of exciting new challenges and obstacles through a variety of iconic and immersive EPCOT attractions.

Expect to see surprise moments and special guests as the two teams run against the countdown clock to complete their quest before sunrise! A donation to the Special Olympics in support of their mission to empower athletes with different abilities will be made in honor of the winning team. Ready, set… go!

An artist’s rendering of Tale of the Lion King on stage at Disneyland’s Fantasyland Theatre—with 20 colorfully dressed performers, some carrying drums. There’s a large, leafy tree set piece at center stage.

Tale of the Lion King Returns to Disneyland Resort as Part of Celebrate Soulfully

There’s a lot to look forward to at Disneyland Resort this summer… Case in point? The continuation of Celebrate Soulfully—rich Disney Parks experiences that honor Black heritage and culture. And throughout the month of June, guests can expect to delight in several new (or returning) Celebrate Soulfully offerings.

Beginning May 28, 2022, Disneyland park will welcome Tale of the Lion King to its new home at the Fantasyland Theatre—where this original (and totally fantastic!) “story-theatre” adaptation of Disney’s The Lion King will be staged in an all-new presentation, as depicted in the artist rendering above. At the heart of the production is a traveling troupe known as The Storytellers of the Pride Lands, who weave the tale of how a cub becomes a king through dialogue, song, dance, and percussion. From the scenic and costume designs to the new original musical arrangements and choreography, every aspect of Tale of the Lion King honors and is inspired by the cultural roots of this timeless story.

Then, beginning June 1 and running through July 4, guests can enjoy Celebrate Soulfully at Disney California Adventure park with daily live music celebrating Black music genres from Doo-Wop to Motown. Feel the nostalgia of Carthay Circle and enjoy Philly Phonics, an a capella vocal group, performing jazzy tunes from the 1920s through today; stylish Five & Dime will sing and swing 1920s and ’30s tunes. In the evening, head to the Hollywood Backlot to enjoy the summer vibes of this special block party, featuring live musical acts seven nights a week.

Plus: Don’t miss “The Soul of Jazz: An American Adventure,” a touring exhibit illustrating the legacy and dynamic history of jazz, when it opens at Downtown Disney District—its first big West Coast stop!—on June 1. In the exhibit, which also runs through July 4, Joe Gardner from Disney and Pixar’s Oscar®-winning hit Soul takes guests on a musical tour across America, showcasing the rich history of jazz along the way.

We’ll see you there!

The cast of Disney Channel’s BUNK’D—Miranda May, Trevor Tordjman, Mallory James Mahoney, Israel Johnson, Shiloh Verrico, Luke Busey, and Alfred Lewis—standing in front of the rustic wooden doorway to Kikiwaka Ranch.

Disney Channel’s BUNK’D Gets Its Season Six Premiere Date

Yeehaw! Pack yer bags and get ready for some summer fun! Disney Branded Television just announced that its long-running hit comedy series BUNK’D will return for a sixth season, beginning Friday, June 10, at 7:30 p.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel and DisneyNOW. And that’s not all: Disney Channel also shared that the new season will include five additional episodes, bringing the grand total to 30.

A spinoff of the Disney Channel fan-favorite comedy Jessie, BUNK’D revolves around the hilarious adventures of the campers and counselors at Maine’s rustic Camp Kikiwaka. Series regular Miranda May (Lou)—who also executive produces the series and will direct several episodes—joins Trevor Tordjman (Parker), Mallory James Mahoney (Destiny), and Israel Johnson (Noah) for the new installment. They will also welcome brand-new cast members Shiloh Verrico as Winnie, Luke Busey as Jake, and newcomer Alfred Lewis as Bill.

Season six, titled BUNK’D: Learning the Ropes, begins as Lou, Parker, Destiny, and Noah arrive at the soon-to-be Kikiwaka Ranch in Dusty Tush, Wyoming, where Lou must convince the surly owner, a.k.a. The Marshal, to officially sell the property to her. In the meantime, counselors Noah and Destiny have their hands full with the newly arrived campers, including Bill, a no-nonsense descendant of famous cowboy Bill Pickett; Winnie, a fearless girl who’s earned her “Wild” nickname by breaking the rules; and Jake, a laid-back, easy-going video game fanatic.

ICYMI: Disney+ Expands the Descendants Universe with Movie Musical The Pocketwatch

Who couldn’t use a little more Descendants in their life, right? We were especially excited earlier this week when the latest Auradon addition, The Pocketwatch, was officially announced; read up on what you can expect from the tune-filled Disney+ film, directed by Jennifer Phang, here at D23.com.

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

By Andie Hagemann

Prepare for fantastical content coming to your TV (and assorted streaming devices) this very weekend! Don’t miss the network premiere of 20th Century Studios’ Underwater, starring Kristen Stewart, on Saturday; later that day, the Disney Channel animated series Amphibia airs its finale, and The Wonderful World of Disney returns with a presentation of Disney and Pixar’s Finding Dory. On Sunday, all 12 episodes of the Hulu Original series Conversations with Friends launch, and your evening plans are all coming together with The Emperor’s New Groove airing that night!

Kristen Stewart stars as Norah Price, one of the deep-water researchers trapped more than six miles from the ocean’s surface in Underwater

Underwater—Saturday, May 14, at 1 p.m. ET, on FX
You’ll be sitting on the edge of your seat with this sci-fi thriller from 20th Century Studios—intended for mature audiences. Kristen Stewart stars as Norah Price, one of oceanic researchers working more than six miles below the ocean surface for a deep-water drilling company. After a massive earthquake devastates the station, the survivors attempt the traverse the sea floor to the main facility while dodging mysterious and deadly ocean creatures.

Anne and her pals dance by the lockers during an episode of the animated series Amphibia.

Amphibia—Saturday, May 14, at 8 p.m. ET, on Disney Channel
The animated series concludes after three seasons with an exciting extended-length episode. Prepare to say goodbye to Anne Boonchuy (voiced by Brenda Song) with plenty of “ribbeting” action!

Dory and Hank explore the ocean adjacent to the Marine Life Institute

The Wonderful World of Disney: Finding Dory—Saturday, May 14, at 8 p.m. ET, on ABC
Pop some corn: It’s the return of ABC’s beloved anthology series… When Dory (voiced by Ellen DeGeneres), suddenly remembers that she has a family who may be looking for her, she embarks on a quest with Marlin (voiced by Albert Brooks) and Nemo (voiced by Hayden Rolence) to find them. Of course, no adventure is complete without Dory meeting plenty of new friends along the way–including Hank (voiced by Ed O’Neill), a grouchy octopus; Bailey (voiced by Ty Burrell), a beluga whale who doubts his sonar skills; and Destiny (voiced by Kaitlin Olson), a nearsighted whale shark.

Frances holds Bobbi from behind

Conversation with Friends—Sunday, May 15, on Hulu
Based on Sally Rooney’s best-selling novel, the coming-of-age limited series—intended for mature audiences—follows Frances (Alison Oliver), a 21-year-old college student, as she navigates a series of complicated relationships. While performing spoken-word poetry alongside Bobbi (Sasha Lane), her ex-girlfriend turned best friend, the pair meet Melissa (Jemima Kirke), a writer who instantly becomes fascinated with them. Frances and Bobbi begin spending time with Melissa and her actor husband Nick (Joe Alwyn)—and as new bonds are forged within the quartet, it gets quite complicated. All 12 episodes will be available at launch.

Pacha and Kuzco link arms whilst back-to-back as they attempt to guide each other out of a ravine

The Emperor’s New Groove—Sunday, May 15, at 5 p.m. ET, on Disney Channel
Disney’s 2000 fan-fave animated film introduces Emperor Kuzco (voiced by David Spade), a selfish young leader who often abuses his title for personal gain. However, Kuzco’s power-hungry advisor Yzma (voiced by Eartha Kitt) wants the throne for herself—so she attempts to poison him… but her halfwit assistant Kronk (voiced by Patrick Warburton) mixes up the potions and the emperor is hilariously transformed into a llama! Abandoned in the jungle with absolutely no life skills, Kuzco turns to a peasant named Pacha (voiced by Disney Legend John Goodman) to return him to the palace.

Kicking It with the Stars of the Disney+ Original Movie Sneakerella

By Zach Johnson

Word on the street is that Sneakerella has got sole.

Set in the vibrant street-sneaker subculture of New York City, the Disney+ Original movie is a high-energy, music-driven story that puts a contemporary twist on the classic Cinderella fairy tale. Streaming Friday, May 13, Sneakerella stars Chosen Jacobs as El, an aspiring sneaker designer from Queens who works as a stock boy in his late mother’s shoe store. El hides his artistic abilities from his overburdened stepfather (Bryan Terrell Clark) and his two dastardly stepbrothers (Hayward Leach and Kolton Stewart), who somehow always manage to thwart any opportunity that comes his way.

Things start to look up after El meets Kira King (Lexi Underwood), the fiercely independent daughter of legendary basketball star and footwear mogul Darius King (John Salley). Sparks fly as El and Kira bond over their mutual affinity for sneakers. But, not wanting to ruin the magic of their meet-cute, Kira initially keeps her identity a secret. “Kira is incredibly smart, relatable, passionate, creative, and driven,” says Underwood. “Most importantly, she's not a damsel in distress waiting to be rescued.”

El (Chosen Jacobs) works in the shoe store stock room in Sneakerella.

Even so, there’s no denying the instant chemistry between El and Kira. “I love how they meet; it’s like love at first sight,” Salley tells D23. “They catch eyes, and you don’t have to wonder if there’s fire between them. I love that. It’s also very relatable, from the social media aspect; it’s how they connect, especially coming from two worlds apart.”

With a nudge from his BFF, Sami (Devyn Nekoda)—and a sprinkle of magic from his Fairy Godfather, Gustavo (Juan Chioran)—El summons the courage to pursue not only his dream of becoming a “legit” sneaker designer, but of pursuing Kira, the girl of his dreams. “You don’t have to be perfect,” Jacobs says. “I think a lot of times we feel a need to always be confident, but no matter how great you are, there will be moments of self-doubt. That’s where your friends, your family, and your community can rally behind you, like they do for El in the movie. You just need that little moment of faith.”

Speaking of faith, Jacobs and Underwood put theirs in choreographers Ebony Williams and Emlio Dosal, who helped bring musical numbers such as “Kicks,” “Best Ever,” “In Your Shoes,” and “Work Up” to life onscreen. “I grew up watching classics like High School Musical, so to be on the street, to hear our director [Elizabeth Allen Rosenbaum] say ‘action,’ and to have 70 or so dancers behind me was so much fun,” Jacobs says. “We were traveling through the city, we were soaring, and I was flying... That's Disney magic! That's something you can’t buy. That is the power of the Mouse.”

Darius (John Salley) and his daughter Kira (Lexi Underwood) admire a pair of kicks in Sneakerella.

Underwood adds, “We had a blast! Watching musicals is incredibly fun—but being part of one is even more fun. We had hours upon hours of rehearsal time, and there were definitely times when it was challenging. But I learned so much and gained so much more confidence when it came to singing and dancing on set. That was really beautiful. It's really cool to be a part of a musical, to be able to finally share this passion of mine.”

Salley shared that sentiment. In fact, the four-time NBA Champion confesses to D23 that he “auditioned and auditioned and auditioned” for the chance to fulfill his lifelong dream of starring in a musical. “I thought it was going to be my breakthrough,” he admits. “The script was really good. I went through it in about 20 minutes, and I was like, ‘I have to be in this movie!’ I remember telling my daughter, ‘I’ve got to be in this musical, because this musical is hip-hop. This musical is now. This musical is fresh!’”

Indeed. Jacobs, especially, can’t wait to share this “fun, modern twist on a beautiful story.”

Watch Sneakerella on Disney+

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 Guardians of the Galaxy knowledge to the test, to see if you are the ultimate Disney fan.

What is the name of Groot's home planet?

Correct! Wrong!

Groot, one of the Guardians of the Galaxy, is a Flora colossi and originates from the (A.) Planet X.

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 Thursday. 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 Thursday! 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!

Hidden Moon Knight Easter Eggs That Will Have Fans Over the Moon

By Jocelyn Buhlman

After spending weeks in the world of Moon Knight and following the adventures of Steven Grant and Marc Spector, it can be hard to say goodbye. What is there to do when you’re possessed with the urge to watch the series? (And hopefully not possessed with the spirit of Khonshu!)

Have you considered… that now is the perfect time for a rewatch?! Not that you need an excuse—but if you do, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite Easter eggs and details hidden in Moon Knight that every fan should spot, including a way to download free Moon Knight comics. (Plus, a Star Wars shout-out!) Read on to discover what you need to keep an eye out for when you push “play” on your next expedition through Moon Knight on Disney+.

WARNING: This article contains spoilers for ALL episodes of Moon Knight.

Stream Moon Knight on Disney+

Inside an Egyptian history museum, Steven Grant discusses with a schoolgirl about the sarcophagus on display. On the wall behind them is a QR code that, when scanned, links to a free download of the first Moon Knight comic book appearance.

Episode 1, “The Goldfish Problem”

  • QR Code: After binging all of Moon Knight, you might be interested in learning more about the character’s comic book origins. Not sure where to start? Watching the show can actually help you out—certain episodes have hidden QR codes that link to digital downloads of Moon Knight comics! In episode 1, you can spot a QR code at 05:03 in the episode, on the wall of the museum while Steven is talking to a schoolgirl. If you scan the QR code with your phone, you’ll get access to a free download of Werewolf by Night #32, which features the debut of Moon Knight as a character!
  • Foreshadowing: Speaking of that schoolgirl, her conversation with Steven hints at his fate in a future episode—she asks him, “Did it suck for you, getting rejected from the Field of Reeds?” In episode 5 of Moon Knight, Steven faces that very same fate—although, thanks to Marc, it’s not for very long!
  • Foreshadowing (Goldfish edition): Besides being an absolutely adorable pet, Gus the goldfish is important for another reason—his tank contains decorations that foreshadow events to come in the series. Due to Steven’s love of Egyptology, the tank features items like a pyramid and Taweret’s boat, both which show up in later episodes as the story’s adventure leads our heroes (and villains) to Egypt.

Steven Grant stands in a dark hallway of storage units, staring ahead at something frightening that is off camera.

Episode 2, “Summon the Suit”

  • QR Code: This episode provides another free digital comic download for sharp-eyed viewers, this time from a QR code on the outside of Marc Spector’s storage unit. If you catch the code at the 08:26 timestamp, you’ll be able to download Werewolf by Night #33, which features the second appearance of Moon Knight.
  • Cast Shout-out: One of the things Steven discovers in the mysterious storage unit is Marc Spector’s passport. It’s easy to miss, but if you’re paying attention to the details on the passport, you’ll notice that Marc’s birthday is listed as March 9—the same day as Oscar Isaac’s birthday!
  • Marvel History: When Steven is first taken into custody by Billy and Bobbie, we get a peek at Marc Spector’s case file, which happens to be number 1975. That’s the year Moon Knight first appeared in a Marvel comic—the aforementioned issue #32 of Werewolf By Night.
  • Marvel History: Not enough shout-outs to Werewolf By Night? Good news! When Steven and Marc are fighting in the street, you can spot a 32 on a double decker bus, once again referencing Moon Knight’s debut in Marvel Comics.
  • MCU Connections: Keep an eye on that bus! The double decker bus also features an ad for the Global Repatriation Council (GRC), the council introduced in The Falcon and the Winter Solider that’s responsible for reuniting victims of Thanos’ snap with their families.

Layla sits on a boat in Egypt, bathed in purple light and looking at something out of frame.

Episode 3, “The Friendly Type”

  • Cast Shout-Out: Much like Marc’s passport revealed that he shares a birthday with the actor, Layla’s passport reveals that Layla and the actress who portrays her, May Calamawy, share the same day of birth (but not year): October 28.

Layla, depicted as a hospital patient, stands in front of a whiteboard with drawings pinned to it. She touches her hand to her face, with one fingered wrapped in a bandage with a small, red doodle of a scarab.

Episode 4, “The Tomb”

  • Hidden Details: The hospital in which Marc awakens after being shot by Harrow is chock full of hidden details shouting-out to the rest of the series, but the biggest detail is all the characters who appear. You can spot Crawley, Donna, Billy, Bobbi, Layla, Harrow, and even Gus the goldfish in new roles in this mysterious hospital. 
  • Foreshadowing: Blink and you’ll miss it, but Layla’s appearance in the hospital holds a clue to her superpowered future—the bandage on her thumb features a tiny, red doodle of a scarab… perhaps you could even call it a Scarlet Scarab, which is the name of Layla’s persona when she acts as the avatar of Taweret.

Marc Spector, dressed as a hospital patient, sits facing Arthur Harrow, dressed as a psychologist and leaning on a desk.

Episode 5, “Asylum”

  • QR Code: After being absent for two episodes, the QR codes return! At 12:00 in the episode, you can spot a QR code next to Steven as he looks through one of the hospital doors. Scan the code and you can read Moon Knight #1, which is the first solo series for the character. 
  • Cast Shout-Out: When revisiting Marc’s childhood memories, we can spot some fun shout-outs hidden in his bedroom. You might notice a Star Wars: A New Hope poster by the door—this references both Marc’s childhood room in the comics and serves as a reference to Oscar Isaac’s role as Poe Dameron in recent Star Wars films.
  • Marvel History: Don’t just fixate on the Star Wars poster! If you examine the Tomb Buster poster, you’ll notice the name Doug Perlin. This name is a double reference, to Doug Moench and Don Perlin, the creators of Moon Knight! Also on the poster is a mention of “Timely Atlas Studios,” which is another double reference—this time to Timely and Atlas, two early names for the comic book company that would one day become Marvel Comics.

Arthur Harrow, dressed as a hospital patient, sits in a wheelchair and reaches for a blue cup that is slightly out of focus.

Episode 6, “Gods and Monsters”

  • QR Code: Time for a Marvel fan test! Did you stay through the end credits? If you did, you’ll find the final QR code hidden in the scene featured after the credits roll. Around 38:00 into the episode, you can spot a health poster with a QR code in the corner, which links to a free copy of Moon Knight Annual #1, featuring a battle against Kang the Conqueror.
  • Marvel History: The end credits scene doesn’t just hold the final QR code—you can also spot a shout-out to another influential figure in Moon Knight’s history. The hospital Arthur leaves is called the Sienkiewicz Psychiatric Hospital; comic book artist Bill Sienkiewicz developed the signature look and tone of Moon Knight during the character’s first comic book series.

Disney+ Expands the Descendants Universe with Movie Musical The Pocketwatch

Descendants fans, rejoice! Disney+ is bringing an all-new fantasy musical to your homes very soon with The Pocketwatch (working title). In the film, director Jennifer Phang (Advantageous, Half-Life, The Flight Attendant), executive producer Gary Marsh, and writers Dan Frey and Russell Sommer (Magic: The Gathering) are taking viewers back to Auradon and down the rabbit hole to the hostile territory of Wonderland. There we will meet Red—the unruly daughter of the Queen of Hearts, who will reluctantly join forces with Chloe (daughter of Cinderella and Prince Charming) and travel back in time using the White Rabbit’s pocket watch to prevent an impending coup in Auradon.

The world of Descendants has opened the door for endless opportunities to revisit favorite Disney stories in new ways. Jennifer Rogers Doyle (Senior Vice President, Franchise and Integrated Planning, Networks, Disney Media Entertainment and Distribution) is thrilled for fans to meet Red and Chloe in this chapter of the Descendants story, which has “tapped into what parents and kids love—a contemporary story with familiarity.”

The Pocketwatch will feature seven new songs, along with a few Disney classics. “With a captivating script and Jennifer Phang’s directorial vision, we’re setting a new high bar of creativity and imagination, with a movie that ups the ante on story, song, and dance to entertain young viewers, their families, and the global fan base that grew up with the aspirational story of Descendants,” said Ayo Davis, president, Disney Branded Television.

Phang said, “The Pocketwatch presents a delightful canvas with fantastical world building. Musicals sparked my imagination when I was a kid and are a huge part of what drew me to filmmaking. I think that’s because they have a way of conveying these lovely, nuanced ideas through song and expressive movement. I’m also always inspired by the diversity of families that exist all around the world. So I really jumped at the chance to craft a supercharged musical experience and explore some new, invigorating themes inside an expansive Disney universe.”

The Pocketwatch is scheduled to begin production this fall. Catch up on the entire Descendants franchise now on Disney+ and stay tuned to D23.com for more updates on this upcoming film.

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Week

By Andie Hagemann

Hear ye, hear ye! Prepare for this brand-new slate of fantastical content coming to your TV and assorted streaming devices this week! From a hybrid fantasy competition series and fresh take on the story of Cinderella to a triple engagement celebration, there is plenty to celebrate. On Tuesday, watch James Holzhauer’s season debut on The Chase. Meanwhile, on this week’s episode of The Conners, three couples share exciting news; later on Wednesday, dive into the debut of all-new competition series The Quest. On Thursday, a former patient returns on Grey’s Anatomy. Don’t miss the highly anticipated premiere of music-filled feature film Sneakerella on Friday!

Chaser James Holzhauer stares down his competition on the trivia quiz show

The Chase—Tuesday, May 10, at 9 p.m. ET, on ABC
A new crop of contestants test their wits against James “The High Roller” Holzhauer (above) in this brand-new episode. Do the market research manager, hospital physician, and music journalist have what it takes to end the OG Chaser’s hot streak?

Ben and Darlene share the news of their engagement with Neville, Jackie, Aldo, and Harris

The Conners—Wednesday, May 11, at 9 p.m. ET, on ABC
Love is in the air! Ben (Jay R. Ferguson) and Darlene (Sara Gilbert) are excited to share their fantastic news with the family, but Neville (Nat Faxon) and Jackie (Laurie Metcalf), and Aldo (Tony Cavalero) and Harris (Emma Kenney) also have very similar news of their own to share—a hilarious predicament that could only happen to this family. Will there be a three-ring circus—ahem—a triple wedding in their future?

Contestants on Disney+ hybrid competition series The Quest hold an orb awaiting their next challenge

The Quest—Wednesday, May 11, on Disney+
Huzzah! This brand-new competition series drops eight teenagers into the fantasy world of Everealm, where they must save the kingdom by fulfilling an ancient prophesy. The contestants are immersed into a fantasy world complete with a castle, royals, and all forms of mystical creatures along with an evil sorceress determined to utilize her destructive powers. All eight episodes drop on the streaming service upon launch.

Nick and Bailey sit across from one another at a boardroom table

Grey’s Anatomy—Thursday, May 12, at 9 p.m. ET, on ABC
Bailey (Chandra Wilson, left) receives an intriguing offer from Nick (Scott Speedman, right) in this week’s all-new episode. Meanwhile, Simon (Cedric Sanders), who is a former patient of Link (Chris Carmack), returns to the ER with his pregnant wife.

Kira King stands with El in a garden while holding a pink rose

Sneakerella—Friday, May 13, on Disney+
This modern twist on the Cinderella tale follows El (Chosen Jacobs, right), an aspiring sneaker designer from Queens who works as a stock boy in the shoe store that once belonged to his late mother. After he meets Kira King (Lexi Underwood, left), the daughter of legendary basketball star and sneaker tycoon Darius King (John Salley), sparks fly as the two bond over their love of sneakers. With help from his best friend and a sprinkle of Fairy Godmother magic, El finds the courage to pursue his dream of becoming a sneaker designer.

Disneyland Paris Lights Up the Eiffel Tower for 30th Anniversary Celebration

By Andie Hagemann

Disneyland Paris and the City of Paris now shine a little brighter: to make the resort’s 30th Anniversary celebration even more special, Mickey Mouse performed a magic trick by lighting up the Eiffel Tower.

For the very first time, the French monument was lit up last month in the iridescent colors of the 30th Anniversary of Disneyland Paris. Thanks to a unique sound and light show, custom designed for the occasion, the iconic monument was illuminated during a dazzling moment created to surprise 30 guests who have a strong bond with the resort. Disneyland Paris employees who have worked at the resort since opening day, Disney VoluntEARS who give their time to philanthropic activities, fans, and loyal guests had the opportunity to watch the show in real-time from an exclusive viewing area.

These 30 guests experienced an unforgettable night, starting their evening off in Disneyland Paris. Guests enjoyed dining at Walt’s – An American Restaurant and viewing “Disney D-Light,” an emotional sequence that takes place before the nighttime spectacular, Disney Illuminations. Then, they boarded a bus that took them to an unknown destination.

Minnie Mouse welcomed these honored guests in front of the Eiffel Tower to bring them to their exclusive viewing area and Mickey became the Master of Ceremonies of an incredible show that lit up the Trocadéro gardens located in front of the monument. This spectacular display combined more than 370 lights and ended with a finale in which Mickey lit up the Eiffel Tower in the magical colors of the 30th Anniversary of Disneyland Paris.

Amazed by this unique moment, Cast Member Christiane said she had seen “an extraordinary show with the Eiffel Tower lit up in the colors of Disneyland Paris’ 30th Anniversary.” Fellow Cast Member and Disney VoluntEAR Binta added, “In 33 years of business, I have never seen such an extraordinary show!” Stéphane, another Cast Member and Disney VoluntEAR, said he was “overwhelmed with emotion when Mickey lit up the Eiffel Tower.”

For 30 years, Disneyland Paris has consistently exceeded its guests’ expectations by creating magical shows year after year. By illuminating the Eiffel Tower in the colors of its 30th Anniversary, Europe’s top tourist destination has gone one step further. This event celebrates 30 years of strong relationships between France, the City of Paris and Disneyland Paris.

MagicBand+ Launches This Summer at Walt Disney World—Plus More in News Briefs

By Courtney Potter

Walt Disney World Resort’s MagicBand+ to Debut This Summer

Very soon, guests at Walt Disney World Resort will interact with Disney stories in entirely new ways—all through the magic of technology! The launch of Disney’s newest (and very cool) wearable, MagicBand+, will be followed later this year by the Hey Disney! digital voice assistant. Both products will enhance guest visits to Walt Disney World Resort throughout the vacation destination’s 50th anniversary celebration and beyond.

Walt Disney World introduced the MagicBand in 2013; a revolutionary way to make the guest experience in its theme parks and resorts more convenient, the wearable helps with park and guest room entry*, retail and dining*, Disney PhotoPass service, and more. The next-generation MagicBand+ will retain those popular features and add new functionality to unlock memorable, experiential moments of magic throughout the Walt Disney World theme parks and resorts.

After a guest enters a theme park, MagicBand+ will come alive at various times with color-changing lights, haptic vibrations, and gesture recognition, enhancing the environment’s storytelling. The wearable will allow guests to engage with favorite Disney moments in new ways and discover new interactive experiences. For instance, guests can embark on the “Disney Fab 50 Quest,” a scavenger hunt throughout the four Walt Disney World theme parks using MagicBand+ to help spread pixie dust and interact with the golden character sculptures.

But that’s not all: Disney is creating its own custom voice assistant using Alexa technology for supported Amazon Echo devices. Called Hey Disney!, this digital voice assistant will work alongside Alexa to respond to vocal prompts, bringing Disney characters and stories to life in magical new ways. Look for Hey Disney! to start rolling out in select Disney Resort hotel guest rooms across Walt Disney World later this year; access will be offered as an optional, complimentary feature during guest stays. Plus, Hey Disney! will also be available for purchase in the U.S. for supported Amazon Echo devices, via the Amazon Alexa Skills Store.

For more info about MagicBands+ click here—and for Hey Disney! info, click here.

*Guests can use MagicBand and MagicBand+ to gain access to Walt Disney World theme parks with valid admission and theme park reservations, enter their Disney Resort hotel room, and charge food and merchandise purchases to the payment card on file at their Disney Resort hotel room during their stay.

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

With Marvel Studios’ Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness descending upon the globe this weekend, it’s the perfect time to binge watch some other Avengers-related content on Disney+. Read up on our recommendations, which we’re positive will enhance your Multiverse viewing experience, right here.

Watch the New Obi-Wan Kenobi Trailer, You Will…

It was a truly magnificent May the 4th this year, was it not? New merchandise to discover; fun offerings available at Downtown Disney District (and beyond); D23’s big Galactic Disco Night announcement for Star Wars Celebration later this month; and so much more—including the debut of a brand-new Obi-Wan Kenobi trailer!

The clip (above) offers a riveting look at the highly anticipated limited series, starring Ewan McGregor in the title role. The story begins 10 years after the dramatic events of Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith, where Kenobi faced his greatest defeat—the downfall and corruption of his best friend and Jedi apprentice, Anakin Skywalker (Hayden Christensen), who turned to the dark side as evil Sith Lord Darth Vader. The series also stars Moses Ingram, Joel Edgerton, Bonnie Piesse, Kumail Nanjiani, Indira Varma, Rupert Friend, O’Shea Jackson Jr., Sung Kang, Simone Kessell, and Benny Safdie.

Obi-Wan Kenobi will premiere exclusively on Disney+ on Friday, May 27, with the first two episodes. Following the premiere, the series will stream new episodes weekly on Wednesdays, until the finale on Wednesday, June 22. Mark those calendars!

Black-and-white image of Freeform’s logo.

Freeform Announces Sizzling Summer Slate

The good folks at Freeform want to make sure your summer is chock-full o’ scintillating stories with delicious drama (and some laughs too!). To that end, they recently released their summer schedule, including a slate of highly anticipated new and returning original series.

New comedy series Everything’s Trash, from Phoebe Robinson, will premiere on Wednesday, July 13, with double episodes at 10 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. ET/PT, with additional episodes weekly at 10:30 p.m. ET/PT Wednesdays. Meanwhile, everyone’s favorite unit of witches returns for one last fight in the upcoming third and final season of Motherland: Fort Salem, which will premiere on Tuesday, June 21, at 10 p.m. ET/PT.

Additionally, Good Trouble will be back for the second half of season four on Thursday, July 7, at 10 p.m. ET/PT, and Emmy®-nominated grown-ish will return—now including the college experience of Junior (Marcus Scribner)—for season five on Wednesday, July 20, at 10 p.m. ET/PT.

All titles will be available to stream on Hulu the day after they premiere… so if you’re out at the pool and forget to DVR, you’re all set.

Grace VanderWaal is Now a Hollywood Stargirl

We’ve been hoping to find out what happened to the title character from Disney+’s original movie Stargirl (based on the acclaimed novel by Jerry Spinelli)—and now we have our answer. Earlier this week, the streaming service revealed the trailer for Hollywood Stargirl, a sequel to the 2020 film about silver-voiced free spirit Stargirl Caraway (Grace VanderWaal), a teenager whose simple acts of kindness work magic in the lives of others.

We meet back up with Stargirl as she embarks on a journey out of Mica, Arizona, and into a bigger world of music, dreams, and possibilities… When her mother, Ana (Judy Greer), is hired as a costume designer on a movie, the duo relocates to L.A., where Stargirl quickly becomes involved with an eclectic assortment of characters—including aspiring filmmaking brothers Evan (Elijah Richardson) and Terrell (Tyrel Jackson Williams); Mr. Mitchell (Emmy® winner Judd Hirsch), one of their new neighbors; and Roxanne Martel (Oscar® nominee Uma Thurman), a musician Stargirl admires and encounters on her journey.

America’s Got Talent winner VanderWaal performs the original song “Figure It Out,” which she wrote for the film. See Hollywood Stargirl when it debuts exclusively on Disney+ on Friday, June 3.

Red and white image of the W. Studios logo.

ESPN Launches W. Studios with Fifty/50 Shorts Presented by Google

Earlier this week, ESPN launched W. Studios, a cool new content generator that creates, produces, and amplifies women-centered storytelling.

In partnership with Google, to give women athletes the recognition they deserve, the first project under the W. Studios umbrella will be the W. Studios Fifty/50 Shorts Presented by Google—five short films centered around the fight for women’s equality across the sports and cultural landscape. The films present a diverse lineup of creatives and content that boasts authenticity and boldness, both in the story and in the method of storytelling, all helmed and executive produced by women.

The short films include: Home Field—directed by Allison Glock with Kate T. Parker, which follows the lives of three teenage girls playing soccer on a team made up of refugees in Clarkston, Georgia, a city known as the “Ellis Island of the South”; Let Noor Run—directed by Shayla Harris, looking at Noor Alexandria Abukaram, a 17-year-old cross-country runner living outside of Toledo, Ohio, who was disqualified from a race for wearing a hijab; The Rule of Sedona Prince—directed by Bethany Mollenkof and executive produced by Disney Legend Robin Roberts, which presents an intimate portrait of rising basketball and viral media star Sedona Prince; Girls Got Game—directed by Elizabeth Lo, looking into the esports organization Complexity and its recently launched GX3, an all-women’s professional team of gamers; and Make a Splash—directed by Bonni Cohen, about San Diego Women’s Basketball Association’s Splash team, made up of women age 85 and older.

The films will premiere Wednesday, June 1, on ESPN2, as part of the Fifty/50 initiative, and will be available on ESPN’s YouTube page.

ICYMI: Inside the Mystical Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness Premiere

Did you miss all the mayhem that took place on the red carpet of the latest Doctor Strange adventure? Fear not! We’ve conjured it back up for you—so make sure not only to check out the great shots of the stars, but also to revel in experience of some lucky D23 Gold Members who got to be a part of the magic!

Wanda Maximoff’s Top 10 MCU Moments (So Far)

Wanda Maximoff

By Zach Johnson

It’s been eight years since Wanda Maximoff first cast a spell on the Marvel Cinematic Universe [MCU].

Debuting in a mid-credits scene for Marvel Studios’ Captain America: The Winter Soldier, the character—played by Elizabeth Olsen—went on to appear in four feature films and star in one limited series. Olsen reprises her role again in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, now playing exclusively in movie theaters. In celebration of her return, we’ve rounded up and ranked her top 10 MCU moments before her latest adventure! We don’t want to spoil the events of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, but there are plenty of moments in the film that will definitely crack the top 10. After all, you never know what kind of magic Wanda will conjure up down the line...

Wanda Maximoff destroys a building in Lagos in Captain America: Civil War.

10. Wanda brings down the block. (Captain America: Civil War)
Did Wanda mean to destroy a building in Lagos? Of course not. She merely tried to divert an explosion and wound up causing more destruction in the process. But it also marked the first time fans witnessed how powerful—and how dangerous—she really is.

Wanda Maximoff uses her powers to send Monica Rambeau out of Westview in WandaVision.

9. Wanda refuses to accept reality. (WandaVision)
After Monica Rambeau infiltrated Westview, she befriended Wanda. Letting her guard down, Wanda opened up about her late brother, Pietro, prompting Monica to ask if he died because of Ultron—something she wasn’t supposed to know about. It soon became apparent that Wanda, in fact, knew more than she had let on. “You’re not my neighbor, and you’re definitely not my friend,” she told Monica. “You are a stranger and an outsider, and right now you are trespassing here—and I want you to leave.” She then sent Monica hurtling through town, outside of the barrier, effectively banishing her for knowing too much. The lesson here? Stay out of Wanda’s business!

Wanda Maximoff destroys Ultron sentries in Avengers: Age of Ultron.

8. Wanda becomes an Avenger. (Avengers: Age of Ultron)
It all comes down to choices. With the battle against Ultron underway in Sokovia, Wanda briefly felt overwhelmed, only to receive words of wisdom from Hawkeye. “It doesn’t matter what you did or what you were,” he told Wanda, who’d harbored resentment towards Tony Stark—and, by association, the Avengers—since childhood. “If you go out there, you fight, and you fight to kill. Stay in here, you’re good; I’ll send your brother to come find out. But if you step out that door, you are an Avenger. All right?” Not only did Wanda come out of hiding, but she went on to help the Avengers stop Ultron once and for all. As far as first impressions go, Wanda pretty much nailed it.

Wanda Maximoff studies the Darkhold in WandaVision.

7. Wanda embraces the dark side. (WandaVision)
The Darkhold, aka the Book of the Damned, says The Scarlet Witch is not born, she’s forged... and she’s more powerful than the Sorcerer Supreme. Can you blame Wanda for wanting to read it?! And if the book also happens to contain a spell that might reunite Wanda with her twin sons, again we ask: Can you really blame Wanda?!

Wanda Maximoff kills Proxima Midnight in Avengers: Infinity War.

6. Wanda shows up for her sisters. (Avengers: Infinity War)
With the Chitauri army about to breach the barrier in Wakanda, Wanda left Vision’s side to aid the Avengers on the battlefield. Proxima Midnight thought she had Wanda all alone, but Black Widow and Okoye teamed up to take her down. Then, using her powers of telekinesis, Wanda literally removed Thanos’ child from the fight... for good!

Wanda Maximoff messes with the Avengers’ minds in Avengers: Age of Ultron.

5. Wanda goes mental. (Avengers: Age of Ultron)
Not everyone has time for mind games... but Wanda? She has all the time! Much like the audience, the Avengers immediately fell under Wanda’s spell. First, she gave Iron Man a waking nightmare in Sokovia. Then, she used the same trick to torment Captain America, Black Widow, and Thor in South Africa. Using her powers of mental manipulation, she finally turned Bruce Banner into the Hulk, sending him on a tear. As Loki can attest, it’s not easy to keep up with the Avengers—but Wanda did it with ease.

Wanda Maximoff becomes The Scarlet Witch in WandaVision.

4. Which witch wins? (WandaVision)
After lying in wait, Agatha Harkness emerged as Wanda’s biggest threat yet: a witch who wanted to steal her chaos magic. But after accepting her destiny as The Scarlet Witch, Wanda managed to overpower Agatha and defiantly told her, “I don’t need you to tell me who I am.” So... who is she? Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness just may answer that question.

Wanda Maximoff destroys the Mind Stone and fends off Thanos in Avengers: Infinity War.

3. Wanda makes an unthinkable sacrifice. (Avengers: Infinity War)
What does a Super Hero do when faced with an impossible decision? Only Wanda possessed the power to destroy the Mind Stone—and, with it, Vision. Captain America argued, “We don’t trade lives,” but as Thanos advanced on the Avengers, it became clear that Wanda had no other choice but to sacrifice the love of her life in order to save the lives of countless others. “If he gets this Stone, half the universe dies,” Vision reminded her. “It’s not fair. It shouldn’t be you, but it is. It’s all right. You could never hurt me. I just feel you." Fighting back tears, Wanda looked lovingly into Vision’s eyes as she blasted the Mind Stone to bits... only for Thanos to use the Time Stone to undo her heroic act, pluck the Mind Stone from Vision’s forehead, and turn Wanda into dust!

Wanda Maximoff uses chaos magic to recreate and control the town of Westview in WandaVision.

2. Wanda remodels Westview. (WandaVision)
Talk about the power of manifestation! Subsumed by grief, Wanda created the very home Vision had wanted them “to grow old in” together... that is, before Thanos destroyed him during the battle of Wakanda. Using chaos magic, Wanda erected a barrier around Westview, New Jersey—one that would give her and Vision a chance at happiness and protect them from the outside world. The only problem? Wanda’s Hex removed free will, so it wasn’t exactly happily ever after for anyone else.

Wanda Maximoff faces Thanos on the battlefield in Avengers: Endgame.

1. Wanda gets her revenge. (Avengers: Endgame)
Wanda tried her best to protect Vision from Thanos during the battle of Wakanda, but she was no match for the Mad Titan. (In fairness, Thanos had just acquired the sixth and final Infinity Stone.) Five years later, after Wanda had been blipped out existence with half the universe, the Avengers brought her back to life. Wanda came back seeing red—literally—as she came face-to-face with Thanos and said, “You took everything from me!” What followed was a master class in productive anger. As Wanda walloped Thanos with finesse and furor, he all but admitted defeat as he directed his entire army to attack her. Thanos may not have remembered her, but Wanda made a lasting impression on him—and on fans, who got a glimpse at just how powerful she really is.