FULL SCHEDULE: Star Wars Celebration Panels feature Obi-Wan Kenobi, The Mandalorian, and 35 Years of Star Tours

April 28, 2022May 26, 2022

By the D23 Team

Our friends at StarWars.com have released an impressive… most impressive lineup of panels for Star Wars Celebration Anaheim 2022. We’ve rounded up the schedule for the Celebration, Galaxy, and Twin Suns stages, which will feature panels, discussions, and more. In fact, we’re excited to announce that D23 will be at Star Wars Celebration with our own panel celebrating 35 years of Star Tours! (We've always wanted to do this) Check out the full schedule of panels below, and let the Force guide you as you plan the perfect weekend at this epic celebration of the Star Wars galaxy.

Thursday, May 26

Lucasfilm’s Studio Showcase

11:00AM – 12:30PM, Live on the Celebration Stage; streamed to the Galaxy and Twin Suns Stages

Star Wars Celebration returns, launching with a must-see showcase that will kick the weekend’s festivities into hyperdrive. Lucasfilm’s current crop of live-action filmmakers will be joined by special guests to discuss the many Star Wars adventures coming soon, including Obi-Wan Kenobi, Andor, and The Mandalorian.

Attack of the Chords: The Music of Episode II with David W. Collins

1:00PM – 2:00PM, Live on the Galaxy Stage

Come celebrate the music of Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones as host David W. Collins explores the musical connections between the story and characters, breaking down both new and classic themes.

Lucasfilm Publishing: Stories From a Galaxy Far, Far Away

1:00PM – 2:00PM, Live on the Twin Suns Stage

From adult novels to kids’ comics, from the time of the High Republic to the rise of the First Order, this is the place to dive deeper into the stories from a galaxy far, far away. Featuring details on new and upcoming titles from Disney Lucasfilm Press, Del Rey, Dark Horse, and more! Including all-new announcements and reveals! Moderated by Lucasfilm’s Michael Siglain.

Ian McDiarmid: An Audience with The Emperor

1:30PM – 2:30PM, Live on the Celebration Stage

“I am all the Sith.” Join Ian McDiarmid, who portrayed Chancellor and then Emperor Palpatine in all three trilogies of the Skywalker saga, for a discussion that is sure to reveal rare insights and behind-the-scenes stories from the celebrated actor who provided some of the most resonant, bone-chilling performances in all of the Star Wars saga.

Star Wars Collectibles Update with Lucasfilm’s Brian Merten

2:30 PM – 4:00 PM, Live on the Twin Suns Stage

The things we collect and bring into our lives really do show our affinity for the story we love.

Come celebrate with us and find out what’s happening firsthand with your favorite Star Wars collectibles. We’ll chat about Prop Replicas, statues and more, probably with a surprise or two along the way.

The High Republic: For Light and Life

3:00PM – 4:00PM, Live on the Galaxy Stage

Centuries before the Skywalker saga there was The High Republic! Join moderator and Star Wars: The High Republic Show host Krystina Arielle, along with luminous authors Claudia Gray, Justina Ireland, Daniel José Older, Cavan Scott, and Charles Soule, along with Lucasfilm’s James Waugh and Michael Siglain, for an in-depth conversation about the golden age of the Jedi. This panel will include all-new announcements and reveals from Phase II: Quest of the Jedi.

D23 Galactic Disco Night

8:00PM – 11:00PM, Anaheim Gardenwalk House of Blues

D23 Members are invited to kickoff Star Wars Celebration Anaheim with a party of interplanetary proportions right next door at the House of Blues: Anaheim! This Galactic Disco Night Dance Party will feature a cosmic array of entertainment with guests from the furthest reaches of the galaxy who might stop by for some of the funkiest Felcuian beats. Get ready to Ewok-and-roll with special photo backdrops, surprise character appearances and more!

Friday, May 27

The Summer of LEGO Star Wars

12:30PM – 1:30PM, Live on the Galaxy Stage

Join the LEGO Group and Lucasfilm as we celebrate the Summer of LEGO Star Wars. Panelists from across Consumer Products, Games and Animation will highlight all the ways fans can enjoy and interact with Star Wars from the unique LEGO lens. Dive into the expansive galaxy within the newly released LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga video game, discover brand-new construction sets that are sure to keep you busy this year and learn about even more ways to get your LEGO Star Wars fix this summer.

Lucasfilm Publishing: Behind the Page

12:30PM – 1:30PM, Live on the Twin Suns Stage

Explore the world of nonfiction, novelty, and behind-the-scenes books for fans of every age. Featuring details on exciting new and upcoming titles from Abrams, DK, Insight Editions, and more! Including all-new announcements and reveals from a galaxy far, far away!

Star Wars: Attack of the Clones 20th Anniversary Celebration

2:00PM – 3:00PM, Live on the Celebration Stage; streamed to the Galaxy Stage

The shroud of the dark side has fallen! Join us as we celebrate the 20th anniversary of Star Wars: Attack of the Clones, the movie that not only introduced a lightsaber-wielding Yoda, a coming-of-age Anakin Skywalker, and clones, but also ushered in a new era of digital cinema, which two decades later has become an industry standard. Special guests and behind-the-scenes content will be revealed in this can’t-miss commemoration of the 2002 epic.

Star Wars Merchandise Sneak Peek—Disney Parks & ShopDisney

2:00PM – 3:00PM, Live on the Twin Suns Stage

Discover a galaxy of merchandise celebrating all things Star Wars. Be among the first to get a sneak peek into what new exclusives will be coming from Disney & Lucasfilm. Get an inside look at how the merchandise of Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge was created, with insights from the Lucasfilm Brand Merchandising & Product Design Team.

Go Beyond the Spires in Virtual Reality: Making of ILMxLAB’s Tales from the Galaxy’s Edge

3:30PM – 4:30PM, Live on the Galaxy Stage

Take a look behind the curtains with the creators of Star Wars: Tales from The Galaxy’s Edge, the virtual reality experience that transports you to the outskirts of Black Spire Outpost, lets you visit Seezelslak’s Cantina, and explore the wilds of Batuu.

Hasbro Star Wars Panel

3:30PM – 4:30PM, Live on the Twin Suns Stage

Join members of the Hasbro & Lucasfilm team as they discuss the popular Hasbro Star Wars line, including the Black Series and The Vintage Collection. Attendees will get an in-depth look at Hasbro’s latest action figure and premium roleplay offerings from throughout the saga. Word on the Holonet is there may also be a few surprises. May the Force be with you!

From a Galaxy Far, Far Away to a Disney Park Near You

4:00PM – 5:00PM, Live on the Celebration Stage

A chronological journey through Star Wars experiences at Disney Parks around the world, starting with the earliest collaborations between Disney and Lucasfilm, Captain EO and Star Tours, leading all the way through to the newest immersive experiences, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge (Walt Disney World and Disneyland resorts), Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser (Walt Disney World Resort) and Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge (Disney Cruise Line), featuring some of the key team members from Walt Disney Imagineering and Lucasfilm.

35 Years of Star Tours Adventures with D23

5:00PM – 6:00PM, Live on the Galaxy Stage

Lightspeed to Endor! Join D23: The Official Disney Fan Club as we celebrate Disney’s original Star Warsattraction – Star Tours! From the misadventures of Captain Rex (RX-24) to the unexpected new destinations of today, we trace the 35-year journey of this iconic and innovative ride with some of the talented Imagineers and filmmakers who have brought the Star Wars universe to life in Disney Parks!

Let’s Play Star Wars! – A Galaxy of Tabletop Games

5:00PM – 6:00PM, Live on the Twin Suns Stage

The best place to experience the spellbinding stories and colossal conflicts of the Star Wars galaxy is your nearest table! Join three of Asmodee’s tabletop gaming studios (Atomic Mass Games, Fantasy Flight Games, and Z-Man Games) as they explore the process of making Star Wars games, reveal behind-the-scenes secrets, and provide a glimpse of upcoming releases. Bring a bag… you may even leave with a few games of your own! Moderated by Asmodee’s Justin Bolger.

Behind the Audiobook: Making an Audio Original Star Wars Adventure [PRH Audio]

6:30PM – 7:30PM, Live on the Twin Suns Stage

Get the inside scoop on how Star Wars Audiobook Originals—including Doctor Aphra and Tempest Runner(The High Republic)—are brought to life, from conception to recording. Moderated by PRH Audio executive producer Nick Martorelli.

Saturday, May 28

Mando+ : A Conversation with Jon Favreau & Dave Filoni

11:00AM – 12:00PM, Live on the Celebration Stage; streamed to the Galaxy and Twin Suns Stages

In their first appearance at Star Wars Celebration since the premiere of The Mandalorian, join Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni with special guests for a look back and a look ahead at what’s to come.

Behind the Scenes of The Mandalorian & The Book of Boba Fett

1:00PM – 2:00PM, Live on the Celebration Stage

Return to the sands of Tatooine as members of the visual effects, creature effects, and sound teams pull back the curtain on their work for The Mandalorian and The Book of Boba Fett to meet the creative challenges put forth by showrunners Jon Favreau, Dave Filoni, and Robert Rodriguez. The team will share how practical puppets, advanced animatronics, CG animation, and cutting-edge sound combine to bring the creatures to life. The filmmakers will also illustrate how miniatures continue to play a role in visual effects and explain the latest advancements in virtual production from the Industrial Light & Magic StageCraft team that helped pioneer the technology.

Star Wars Cosplay Competition

1:00PM – 2:00PM, Live on the Galaxy Stage

Both veteran and amateur cosplayers alike will join the most exciting Cosplay Competition in the galaxy at Star Wars Celebration Anaheim! More than just a competition – it’s a fun-filled celebration of the very best Star Wars cosplayers that want to share their talent, skill and determination with the universe.

Star Wars: Hunters – Welcome to the Greatest Show in the Galaxy

1:00PM – 2:00PM, Live on the Twin Suns Stage

On the planet of Vespaara, the galaxy’s greatest fighters assemble in the Arena to compete for glory and credits. Star Wars: Hunters will introduce a unique original cast of characters, facing off in thrilling 4v4 arena combat. Join the Zynga and the Lucasfilm teams to learn about how this spectacle will come to life, hear developer insights, and get a behind-the-scenes glimpse at upcoming content.

Tales of the Jedi

2:30PM – 3:30PM, Live on the Celebration Stage; streamed to the Galaxy and Twin Suns Stages

Introducing Tales of the Jedi, animated anthology shorts. Hosted by Amy Ratcliffe with special guest Dave Filoni.

Doug Chiang: Designing the Mandalorian

4:00PM – 5:00PM, Live on the Galaxy Stage

The Mandalorian Production Designer and Lucasfilm’s Vice President and Executive Creative Director Doug Chiang will present an in-depth talk about designing the characters, spaceships, and worlds for Star Wars’ first live action series The Mandalorian and The Book of Boba Fett. He will share his design process and showcase rare artwork to offer insight into the Lucasfilm Art Department’s creative process. He will reveal the challenges they faced in developing memorable new characters like Grogu and the Mandalorian. Attendees will also have the chance to ask Doug questions.

Marvel Star Wars Comics

4:30PM – 5:30PM, Live on the Twin Suns Stage

Make mine Star Wars and make mine Marvel! Join Marvel Editor-in-Chief C.B. Cebulski and some of Marvel’s top talent for a comics conversation unlike any other. Including all-new announcements and reveals from a galaxy far, far away!

I Am C-3PO With Anthony Daniels

5:30PM – 6:30PM, Live on the Galaxy Stage

Go behind the mask with Anthony Daniels as he recounts his years bringing your favorite protocol droid to life. Watch as he chronicles iconic moments, fan-favorite stories, and perhaps some things you have never seen or heard before!

Del Rey: Behind-the-Scenes

6:00PM – 7:00PM, Live on the Twin Suns Stage

Join Star Wars authors and book editors for an in-depth conversation about three of the most anticipated Star Wars stories coming in 2022: Brotherhood, Shadow of the Sith, and The Princess and the Scoundrel. From the prequels to the original trilogy, to the sequel era there are Star Wars books from Lucasfilm and Del Rey for everyone. This panel should not be missed! Moderated by Del Rey Senior Editor Tom Hoeler.

Sunday, May 29

Star Wars: The Bad Batch Season 2

11:00AM – 12:00PM, Live on the Celebration Stage; streamed to the Galaxy and Twin Suns Stages

“Strap in kid, you’re not gonna want to miss this view.” Join host David Collins as he invites Star Wars: The Bad Batch Executive Producer and Supervising Director Brad Rau, Executive Producer and head writer Jen Corbett, Story Editor Matt Michnovetz, actors Dee Bradley Baker (The Bad Batch) and Michelle Ang (Omega) to discuss highlights from the first season of the acclaimed series as well as some exciting hints of what’s to come in season two!

A Look Back at Star Wars: Visions

12:30PM – 1:30PM, Live on the Twin Suns Stage

Join team members from Lucasfilm and Qubic Pictures as they discuss the development and success of Star Wars: Visions. Hosted by longtime anime and Star Wars fan Chastity Vicencio, the panelists will share highlights from production, discuss how they worked with Kamikaze Douga, Studio Colorido, Geno Studio, Trigger, Kinema Citrus Co., Production I.G, and Science SARU to bring Star Wars: Visions to life, share never before seen concept artwork, and more!

Wonderful World of Wookiees

1:00PM – 2:00PM, Live on the Galaxy Stage

Loyal allies, gifted pilots, skilled mechanics and fierce warriors, Wookiees have come to be many things in the Star Wars galaxy. Join host Amy Ratcliffe and special guests Joonas Suotamo (Chewbacca – Episodes seven, eight, nine, and Solo: A Star Wars Story), Carey Jones (Krrsantan – The Book of Boba Fett), and Charles Soule (author behind The High Republic’s Burryaga Agaburry) for a Wookiee-focused discussion that will include a tribute to the iconic Peter Mayhew.

Star Wars: The Clone Wars “The Siege of Mandalore” Screening

1:00PM – 3:00PM, Live on the Celebration Stage

Join host David Collins and special guests Dave Filoni, Carrie Beck, and Athena Portillo for a special screening of “The Siege of Mandalore,” the four-episode arc that makes up the cinematic final chapter of Star Wars: The Clone Wars.

Behind the Scenes – The Creatures of Return of the Jedi

2:00PM – 3:00PM, Live on the Twin Suns Stage

Movie monster fans won’t want to miss this in-depth exploration of the Return of the Jedi’s aliens! Join special guest and Return of the Jedi creature maker, Kirk Thatcher along with FX artist Tom Spina (Regal Robot, Tom Spina Designs), Amy Ratcliffe, and Jason and Gabe from Blast Points Podcast as they turn their keen eyes towards the throne room of Jabba the Hutt and the wondrous creatures of ROTJ with a showcase of rare images and stories from the making of the film.

Celebration Anaheim Closing Ceremony

3:30PM – 4:30PM, Live on the Celebration, Galaxy, and StarWars.com Stages

Gather with friends and fellow Star Wars fans to relive the best moments of the weekend and bid farewell to another Star Wars Celebration. Featuring special guests, weekend highlights and much more, this is a send-off you won’t want to miss!

Stay tuned to StarWars.com for more Star Wars Celebration Anaheim updates!

Star Wars Celebration Anaheim 2022 will be held May 26-29, 2022, at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California.

A Pixar Hotel, Delicious Dining, and More Updates Coming to Disneyland Resort

April 28, 2022

By the D23 Team

Yesterday, Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock met with community leaders about upcoming plans for the Disneyland Resort—including news on a new Pixar-themed hotel, updates on Toontown’s transformation, and more! The future is looking bright for Disneyland Resort, and we wanted to share some of the shining updates we’re most excited about.

Pixar Paradise
Guests have enjoyed Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel, with its scenic views of Pixar Pier and the Incredicoaster, since the opening of Disney California Adventure. This classic hotel will soon begin a transformation that weaves the artistry of Pixar into its comfortable, contemporary setting. Guests will gain a new perspective on some of their favorite Pixar worlds and characters through carefully curated artwork and décor that reveals the creative journey of the artists who helped bring these stories to life.

As soon as you step into the reimagined hotel, you’ll be smiling at the whimsical Pixar moments on display, like the iconic, playful Pixar Lamp balancing atop its ball in the lobby (as pictured in this artist concept rendering). Stay tuned to D23.com for more information on this transformation as it breaks!

New and Returning Benefits
You’ve got a friend in Disneyland Resort hotels, not just because of the animated new reimagining, but because of new benefits! Beginning later this summer, guests staying at one of the hotels of the Disneyland Resort will be able to enjoy several new and returning uniquely Disney benefits to staying with us on property. A walkway is currently under construction, which will soon give Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel guests a convenient entrance to Disney California Adventure park, joining Disney’s Grand Californian Resort and Spa as the second Disneyland Resort hotel to allow guests direct access to Disney California Adventure.

Guests can also look forward to “Hey Disney!” later this year. “Hey Disney!” is a new kind of voice assistant, previously announced at Destination D23 in 2021, which works alongside Alexa on Amazon Echo devices in Disneyland Resort hotel rooms that can make your stay more convenient, engaging, and enjoyable.

Later this summer, guests of the Disneyland Resort hotels can look forward to the ability to send select theme park purchases back to their resort hotel.

Last but certainly not least, get ready for the return of early entry access, where guests staying at one of our Disneyland Resort hotels can be among the first to enter and begin enjoying select theme park attractions and experiences beginning later this summer!

More Magic Headed to Downtown Disney District
Since 2018, the Downtown Disney District has been evolving to bring even more exciting shopping and dining experiences. The latest part of the transformation has begun, drawing inspiration from Southern California mid-century modern architecture. The west-end area of Downtown Disney will be a beautiful blend of vibrant color palettes, design elements, and patterns influenced by the region. It will also include an open lawn for relaxation and future events, plus an even broader and diverse collection of dining and shopping offerings.

Hungry for more updates? We’ve gota taste of what else is on the horizon! The world-renowned restaurant Din Tai Fung will join the district to offer guests its soup dumplings handcrafted right on site. This family-run restaurant will bring flavorful Chinese cuisine to Downtown Disney, where guests can enjoy dishes served family style in a creative space near our new lawn pavilion.

Plus, MICHELIN-starred Chef Carlos Gaytan will bring his inclusive vision of Mexican cuisine to Paseo and Centrico in the locations currently occupied by Catal & Uva Bar, brought to life by Patina Restaurant Group. The restaurant and central courtyard bar and dining area will offer guests a multi-sensory journey to the heart of Chef Gaytan’s homeland.

If you’re in the mood to dine down by the bayou, you can look forward to an evolution at Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen to incorporate vibrant California energy and a fresh approach to the menu, while staying true to the heart of New Orleans for this guest-favorite location.

For sandwich fans, we have a thrilling update for you, too! Fan-favorite Earl of Sandwich will be offering a special sandwich walk-up location, providing guests the classics they know and love for a limited time beginning later this year.

Mickey’s Toontown Transformation Continues
We can’t wait to see the reimagining of Mickey’s Toontown at Disneyland park, which will debut with new experiences and more play for guests, in early 2023.

Check out this photo (above) of the teams breaking ground on the land, coming together to celebrate this milestone and the work underway to bring this transformation to life.

Stay tuned to D23.com for more Disneyland Resort updates as they break! For more details on today’s announcements, make sure to hear our exclusive interview with Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock on the latest episode of the D23 Inside Disney podcast.

American Idol Reveals Top 10 “Disney Night” Songs

April 28, 2022April 28, 2022

By Zach Johnson

Our favorite night of the year is almost here!

The iconic “Disney Night” tradition continues as American Idol returns for a magical night of pixie dust-powered performances and surprise guests live on the Idol stage. D23 is proud to announce which songs the Top 10 contestants will perform when the highly anticipated episode airs live on Sunday, May 1, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT, on ABC:

Christian Guardino – “Circle of Life” from The Lion King
Emyrson Flora – “Carried Me with You” from Onward
Fritz Hager – “Go the Distance” from Hercules
HunterGirl – “I See the Light” from Tangled
Jay Copeland – “Remember Me” from Coco
Lady K – “How Far I’ll Go” from Moana
Leah Marlene – “When She Loved Me” from Toy Story 2
Mike Parker – “You’ll Be in My Heart” from Tarzan
Nicolina Bozzo – “Poor Unfortunate Souls” from The Little Mermaid
Noah Thompson – “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” from Toy Story

Of course, it wouldn’t be “Disney Night” without a little extra magic. Award-winning actor and singer Derek Hough will mentor the Top 10 from the Disneyland Resort in California as they prepare to perform beloved Disney tunes in hopes of securing America’s vote. Plus, Rhenzy and Adassa will perform “We Don’t Talk About Bruno,” the No. 1 hit song from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Oscar^®-winning feature Encanto. Something tells us host/executive producer Ryan Seacrest and judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie will be talking about Bruno… as will all of America!

This Sunday’s episode will also celebrate the return of nighttime spectaculars at the Disneyland Resort, including the 50th anniversary of the Main Street Electrical Parade.

Watch episodes on demand and on Hulu the day after their premieres. And don’t forget to tune in Monday, May 2, at 8 p.m. ET/PT for “The Great Idol Reunion”; in celebration of its milestone 20th season, American Idol greats Ruben Studdard, Scotty McCreery, Jordin Sparks, David Cook, Lauren Alaina, Kris Allen, Maddie Poppe, Laine Hardy, Willie Spence, Caleb Lee Hutchinson, Grace Kinstler, Laci Kaye Booth, and other surprise guests will reunite on the Idol stage for a night of unforgettable performances.

Celebrate Mom, Marvel, and More with These Gorgeous Gifts from Pandora

April 28, 2022

By The D23 Team

May is a busy time for Disney fans! Between wishing each other, “May the Fourth be with You,” to searching for the perfect gifts for our magical moms, our calendars are packed with opportunities to add Disney magic into our lives. This year, there’s an extra reason to celebrate! On May 4, we celebrate the 10-year anniversary of when we first assembled in theaters to watch Marvel’s The Avengers. If you’re looking for Disney ways to celebrate these May milestones, stop your search! Our friends at Pandora have the perfect items to commemorate each special moment.

May the Fourth
Make sure your next adventure across the galaxy is a stylish one! For May the Fourth and beyond, mix and match new Star Wars styles, featuring iconic characters and symbols from all corners of the Star Wars™ galaxy.

10 Years of Marvel’s The Avengers (May 4)
If you’re hoping to don a super ensemble to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of Marvel’s The Avengers, head to Pandora to unlock a universe of iconic characters with new styles from Marvel x Pandora. The forces of evil won’t stand a chance against you when you’re suited up in jewelry featuring your favorite Super Heroes or their iconic logos.

Mother’s Day (May 8)
Mom deserves the best, so this year give her a gift with extra pixie dust. Celebrate your bond on Mother’s Day and beyond with the only other person as sweet as your mom—Disney’s Minnie Mouse! Decorated with her iconic red bow, these special surprises will transport Disney moms back to their own childhoods. The newest specialty Disney x Pandora charm features a handwritten “Mom” motif, with a dangling heart in 14k rose gold-plating and a Minnie Mouse silhouette. Another themed charm, hand-finished in sterling silver, features polished Minnie Mouse ears and signature red bow above the “O” in the “Mom” script.

What to Watch Before You See Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness

April 28, 2022October 28, 2022

By Sarah Sterling

On May 6, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is finally tumbling headfirst into the Multiverse with Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. Months after the events of Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021), Dr. Stephen Strange must travel into the Multiverse to fight mysterious new enemies with the help of a handful of our favorite Super Heroes. The second installment in the Doctor Strange story relates heavily to several Marvel movies and television shows, but don’t worry – no need to re-watch all 27 MCU films by May 6. We have you covered with the four most important titles to watch or re-watch before seeing Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness!

Doctor Stephen Strange wielding the Eye of Agamotto in Doctor Strange.

1. Doctor Strange (2016)

It should go without saying that if you haven’t yet seen the first Doctor Strange movie, now is the time! Doctor Strange is integral in understanding how Stephen Strange came to be a master of the Mystic Arts, keeper of the presumed defunct Time Stone, and pre-blip Sorcerer Supreme. The film also explains Stephen’s relationship with Dr. Christine Palmer and friend-turned-foe, Karl Mordo – both of whom return in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. How many Sanctums Sanctorum are there and where are they located? If you’re unsure, it’s definitely time to revisit Doctor Strange, available to stream on Disney+.

Stream Doctor Strange on Disney+

Wanda Maximoff, aka the Scarlet Witch, dressed in her Halloween costume from the Disney+ Original Series, WandaVision.

2. WandaVision (2021)

Following the events of Avengers: Endgame, the Disney+ Original Series, WandaVision, follows a distraught Wanda Maximoff as she moves to Westview, New Jersey, to create a bubble reality within which she can live the impossible life of her dreams. WandaVision is important viewing for Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness as Wanda will be a pivotal character in the film. When we last saw her, Wanda had just lost her twin sons and her husband, Vision. Fully embracing the mantle of the Scarlet Witch, Wanda dove into the mysteries of the Darkhold, a sinister collection of spells that may lead her to reconnecting with her now nonexistent family. But will she uncover more than she can handle? We may find out in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness! Make sure you know everything there is to know about Wanda and stream WandaVision ASAP! If you can’t catch the whole season, episodes 6-9 should do the trick.

Stream WandaVision on Disney+

$Animated Stephen Strange conjures a crystalline fractal shield in Marvel Studios’ What If…?$

3. What If…? (2021)

Marvel Studios’ What If…? is an animated Disney+ Original Series that explains what would have happened if major MCU moments had occurred slightly differently. Narrated by the all-seeing Watcher, the show explores alternate and variant realities, some of which might come into play in a film about multiple realities like Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. Episode 4 of the series, “What If…Doctor Strange Lost His Heart Instead of His Hands?” follows Stephen in a reality where he loses his girlfriend, Christine, and his grief leads him down a path to becoming the evil Strange Supreme. In episode 5, “What If…Zombies?!,” we encounter a terrifying zombified Wanda Maximoff who’s being fed and cared for by Vision. And in episodes 8 and 9, we see the ramifications of Ultron succeeding in his mission to cleanse the Earth, discovering the existence of multiple realities, and seeking to conquer them all. These episodes are important to watch before seeing Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness as they include key characters and many pivotal battles across the Multiverse.

Stream What If...? on Disney+

Spider-Man is kneeling on top of a car as Doctor Strange look at him with his arms crossed.

4. Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021)

The last time we saw Doctor Stephen Strange was in Sony Pictures’ Spider-Man: No Way Home. When Peter Parker’s friends have been rejected from college because of their association with the webbed Super Hero, he goes to Doctor Strange to ask for a spell to make everyone forget he is Spider-Man. Of course, things don’t go as planned, and the spell ends up pulling Spider-Men and villains into the MCU from alternate universes. During the film’s finale, the fabric of reality is being torn apart and Doctor Strange must make everyone forget Peter completely in order to stop the Multiverse from bursting open. This solution seems to work, but time will tell if the events of Spider-Man: No Way Home relate to the challenges our Super Heroes face in Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.

The MCU is about to change forever! Make sure you’re prepared for the mayhem and stream these movies and series before seeing Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness on May 6.

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

April 28, 2022

By Andie Hagemann

From a “tale as old as time” and heart-pumping action to an homage to classic Disney songs, this weekend’s offerings have something for everyone! ABC’s The Wonderful World of Disney returns Saturday evening with a presentation of the 1991 animated film Beauty and the Beast. Meanwhile, love is in the air on Sunday with the additions of Fever Pitch and Pretty Woman to Hulu; later that same day, American Idol visits “The Happiest Place of Earth” as part of Disney Night, where the contestants will seek inspiration for their performances at Disneyland Resort; and a new episode of The Rookie has the team in a race against time to prevent a citywide attack.

The Wonderful World of Disney: Beauty and the Beast—Saturday, April 30, at 8 p.m. ET, on ABC
In the beloved animated classic from Walt Disney Animation Studios, a callous prince and his servants fall under the spell of a witch, who turns him into a Beast until he learns how to love. Meanwhile, headstrong village girl Belle (voiced by Disney Legend Paige O’Hara) enters the enchanted castle after the Beast imprisons her father Maurice (voiced by Rex Everhart). With the Beast unwilling to free her father, Belle offers to take his place in the castle, and the charmed servants, including Mrs. Potts (voiced by Disney Legend Angela Lansbury), attempt to bring them closer together.

Fever Pitch—Sunday, May 1, on Hulu
Ben Wrightman (Jimmy Fallon, left), a teacher, and businesswoman Lindsey Meeks (Drew Barrymore, right) begin dating despite their lack of common interests. However, once baseball season begins, Ben’s obsession with the Boston Red Sox threatens their otherwise happy relationship.

American Idol—Sunday, May 1, at 8 p.m. ET, on ABC
This week’s episode will be magical because… IT’S DISNEY NIGHT! The top 10 contestants join Idol’s all-star judges Lionel Richie (left), Katy Perry (center), Luke Bryan (right) for fun (and inspiration) at the Disneyland Resort ahead of their performances of beloved Disney songs. Plus, Idol pays tribute to the 50th anniversary of the Main Street Electrical Parade.

The Rookie—Sunday, May 1, at 10 p.m. ET, on ABC
After a suspected terrorist scatters bombs across the city, the team partners with the FBI’s Los Angeles Division to thwart the explosions before it’s too late. Meanwhile, the joint task ponders the CIA’s connection with the situation. Niecy Nash (right) reprises her guest starring role as Simone Clark in this brand-new episode.

Pretty Woman—Sunday, May 1, on Hulu
It will be a “big mistake… huge,” if you don’t watch this cherished romantic comedy—intended for a mature audience—starring Richard Gere and Julia Roberts and directed by Disney Legend Garry Marshall. While on a business trip in Los Angeles, Edward (Gere, left) picks up Vivian (Roberts, right), as he struggles to drive his friend’s exotic car. Edward hires Vivian to stay with him for the weekend and the pair get close but realize they are from two very different worlds.

Just Announced: Disney Dreamlight Valley is Your Ultimate Disney Dream World!

April 28, 2022

Attention, Disney Dreamers!

There’s a whole new way to live magically—and it’s just over the horizon. As announced today, Disney Dreamlight Valley is an all-new life-simulation adventure game coming soon for PC, Mac, and console.

Welcome to the Dream Valley
In this game, you will arrive in a mysterious world known as Dreamlight Valley—desolate and full of “Night Thorns”—after a mysterious event called “The Forgetting.” It was once an idyllic land where Disney and Pixar characters lived in harmony; now, it’s up to you to discover the land’s unique stories and bring its magic back!

As a player, you’ll help an exciting cast of favorite Disney and Pixar friends uncover their lost memories and unravel the secrets of the Valley—all while making a mark on the land by customizing your own dream village and avatar.

Live Magically
Whether you’re fishing with Goofy or serving up savory dishes alongside Remy from Disney and Pixar’s Ratatouille, you can make each experience your own by “Disneybounding,” right from your preferred gaming device. Thousands of customization options await your avatar, home, and village—allowing you to express your fandom in a way that’s completely unique to you.

From the Glade of Trust to the Dazzle Beach, you’ll find and cultivate resources to aid you on your quests to restore the village. Along the way, you’ll unlock new areas and meet new friends who will tag along as you uncover their compelling story arcs. With an ever-evolving list of Disney and Pixar-inspired items and characters, every day in Dreamlight Valley will be different and exciting.

Coming Summer 2022
Starting in Summer 2022, Disney Dreamlight Valley’s Early Access will be available for PC, Mac, and console exclusively for players who purchase a Founder’s Pack, or those who have an Xbox Game Pass. During this Early Access phase, players will be the very first to explore Dreamlight Valley and receive exclusive rewards that they’ll keep once the game officially launches next year as a free-to-play title.

PC and Mac versions will be released on Steam, Epic Games Store, Microsoft Store, and the Mac App Store, while console versions will be released on Nintendo Switch™, PlayStation®5 (PS5™), PlayStation®4 (PS4™), Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and Xbox One consoles. Players can now “wishlist” the game directly on favorite gaming storefronts… and make sure to stay tuned for more info, including official release date announcements!

Get an Exclusive Wallpaper & Stay In the Know
Stay up to date with everything Dreamlight Valley by following the game’s social pages (Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Discord)—and subscribe to the Dreamlight Valley newsletter for exclusive digital wallpaper to add some early magic to your devices.

See you in the Valley!

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

April 28, 2022April 27, 2022

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

When did Doctor Strange make his first appearance in Marvel Comics?

October 1961

July 1963

August 1971

September 1978

Correct! Wrong!

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!

The Lion King North American Tour Celebrates Its 20th Anniversary

April 27, 2022April 28, 2022

By Tori Hunt

“Hakuna matata!” The Disney animated classic The Lion King captured the hearts of fans everywhere nearly 30 years ago with its heartwarming tale of perseverance and bravery. Its popularity inspired the creation of a stage adaptation, directed by Julie Taymor, which opened to rave reviews at the New Amsterdam Theater on Broadway in 1997, smashing box office records. Its massive success, in turn, led to global and North American tours that are still going strong!

Since launching in April 2002 at the Buell Theatre in Denver, Colorado, The Lion King North American tour (produced by Disney Theatrical Productions) has employed hundreds of theater professionals, and played more than 9,000 performances—during 227 engagements in 93 cities—to an audience of more than 21 million theatergoers! Few tours in the history of theater have achieved such reach or impact.

In its decades as a cultural mainstay, The Lion King has won more than 70 global theatrical awards, including six Tony® Awards and a Grammy® Award. The musical’s ability to connect with audiences across several different languages and cultures has made it one of the most successful productions of all time. None of that would be possible without the thousands of crew members who have a deep-rooted passion for the show.

To help celebrate its 20th anniversary, D23 got the exclusive scoop from two original tour members as the show begins a two-week engagement at The Century II Concert Hall in Wichita, Kansas.

It goes without saying that it takes a village to put on every single performance. Between lighting technicians and choreographers to musicians in the orchestra, everyone involved in The Lion King is instrumental to its success.

Stefan Monssen, an African-trained percussionist, started with The Lion King in the late ’90s, subbing for drummer Junior Wedderburn before becoming a permanent member of the orchestra. Prior to joining the show, he’d spent three years in The Gambia, living with and learning from a Mandinka family headed by master drummers.

When he joined The Lion King, “I was amazed and totally scared at the same time,” Monssen tells D23. “Though Junior was shadowing me, there was no rehearsal with the conductor or orchestra; one goes right into performing the show itself, so I was very nervous while incredibly astounded and happy.”

“Being that The Lion King is so infused with rhythms based in these [Gambian] traditions, it’s easy to stay passionate about the show,” Monssen says. (The musical boasts five indigenous African languages including Swahili and Zulu.)

After all these years, Monssen says he keeps things fresh for himself by continuing to grow outside of his work in the production. He has returned to The Gambia to reconnect with his teacher’s family and to continue his studies several times and—in addition to advancing as a musician—found his own happily ever after.

“I’m very happy to say I found love in The Gambia and I have now been happily married for three years,” he says. “My wife’s uncle happens to be my head teacher there, so it has only brought a deeper connection with the family.”

“By continuing to grow with my passion for Gambian music and culture, I am able to bring that growth, love, and passion into my performing with The Lion King. It really was the right show for me to land and stay with for so many years,” he says.

Advanced electrician Meg Sump has been with the touring production since the beginning and has witnessed every aspect of the performance. In fact, she has watched the show over 6,000 times!

Sump is grateful for the community she’s been able to build over the last 20 years as a part of The Lion King. “Each person brings talents and skills, and then combines them together, over and over, week after week, to present this wonderful work—live to audiences all across the country,” she says.

When asked why The Lion King continues to draw audiences from across the country and world decades after it began, both Monssen and Sump noted both the heart and imaginative spirit of the show.

“Even after all these years, The Lion King doesn’t get old and it keeps striking chords with theatregoers,” says Monssen. “From the incredible lighting design, the choreography, the various styles of music infused with rhythm, as well as the most beautiful South African vocals, the show is a wonderful tapestry of so many elements intertwined. And of course, the human elements are one of, if not the main part of, the show’s heartbeat and soul.”

As for Sump, she believes the audience is grabbed right at the top of the show—when the giraffe silhouette, walking in front of golden sun, captures their imagination.

“They know they see a giraffe, and then as the lighting changes, they realize it is a person in a giraffe costume,” she explains. “But they have already accepted them as a giraffe, so they are a giraffe. From that moment, the audience becomes part of the Pride Lands, and their imaginations are linked with the action on the stage.

“This is the magic of the theater,” she continues. “And once they experience it, people want to share it. Grandparents bring grandchildren to introduce them to our world. Children grow up and bring friends. The friends have children, and the enchantment grows. It is a beautiful thing to watch.”

Every A-MEI-zing Easter Egg in Pixar’s Turning Red

April 27, 2022February 7, 2024

By Sarah Sterling

Disney and Pixar’s latest animated adventure, Turning Red, has spread panda-monium across the globe and turned us all into certified 4*Townies! We can all relate to adorable and confident Meilin Lee who must find the balance between being her family’s dutiful “Mei Mei” and embracing the messiness that comes with growing up, and…turning into a giant red panda! We know you’ve already streamed this stu-panda-ous movie on Disney+ countless times and probably noticed a classic Pixar Easter Egg or two, but, if not, we’ve prepared the most comprehensive list of Easter Eggs, hidden details, and Disney references from Turning Red for you to enjoy and enhance your panda power.

1. Domee Shi’s “Bao”
Turning Red Academy Award®-winning director, Domee Shi, made her directorially debut at Pixar with her short, Bao, which played before Incredibles 2 in 2018. When Mei gets off the bus at the beginning of Turning Red, you can spot a sign for a bao restaurant behind her with the same font as the title treatment for Pixar’s Bao.

2. Miriam’s Pixar-centric Skateboard
Mei’s bestie, Miriam, must be a huge Pixar fan – she has three Pixar Easter Eggs on her skateboard alone! Take a closer look and you’ll notice two nods to Pixar’s upcoming film, Lightyear. One is the classic Star Command logo featured on Buzz Lightyear’s chest piece and the second is a sticker of Sox, the robot cat that Buzz will befriend in Lightyear. Finally, you’ll also spy a large upside-down skull across the middle of the skateboard – this is the same skull found on Sid Phillip’s T-shirt in Toy Story!

3. Mei’s Purl Keychain
In 2018, Pixar released their very first SparkShorts film, Purl, the story of an eager ball of yarn who has trouble fitting in at her new job at a fast-paced, less than welcoming company. Lovable little Purl can be seen in keychain form, hanging from the top of Mei’s desk as she does homework.

4. Mei’s Burrow Sticker
Pixar’s short film Burrow premiered in 2020 on Disney+ and is about a young rabbit digging her first burrow…despite not really knowing how to. The Burrow bunny is briefly visible on the back of Mei’s notebook where she draws pictures of tantalizing mermen.

5. Ming’s License Plate
Mei’s mother, Ming, has a very specific vanity license plate that reads, “SYST3MS – Yours to Discover.” This is a discrete tribute to Pixar’s Systems team, which covers all things data, computing systems, recording studios, teleconferencing, and production pipeline software for the animation studio. We wonder if Ming is into coding 🤔

6. A Band from the Great Beyond:
Mei goes full heart-eyes when she sees her classmate, Carter Murphy-Mayhew, in the hallway at school. But don’t be distracted by Mei’s tunnel vision, because Carter is wearing a T-shirt for the band Escápula, which is the same ghostly punk rock band seen in Pixar’s Coco during the battle of the bands!

7. We Found Nemo!
After Mei allows her panda to get the best of her during a dodgeball game, the girls run to the bathroom so no one will discover her secret power. A small clownfish sticker can be seen on a stall door behind Abby. It’s unclear if this clownfish has one small fin, so it could be a nod to Nemo or Marlin from Finding Nemo, but either way, this Easter Egg so totally rocks, dude!

8. Porridge That’s Happy to See You
A rare reference to a non-Pixar film can be found when Ming makes breakfast for Mei on the morning she first turns into a red panda. Ming prepares a bowl of congee and uses eggs, mushrooms, and other condiments to create a smiley face. Similarly, in Mulan, Mushu makes Mulan a smiley bowl of porridge on her first day of army training. Who wouldn’t have a grin-credible day with this breakfast!

9. Luxo Ball Goes for a Swim
The iconic Luxo Ball appeared in Pixar’s very first short film, Luxo, Jr., in 1986. Since then, the ball has appeared in numerous Pixar films and was prominently featured in the Toy Story films. This memorable toy appears in Turning Red during Tyler’s birthday party. When Mei and her friends are hanging out on the roof, you can see the Luxo Ball in Tyler’s pool as they look out over the backyard.

10. Voice Actor James Hong
Another connection between Turning Red and Mulan is voice actor James Hong! Hong is a prolific voice talent who has appeared vocally, and in live action, in many Disney projects. Hong voices Mr. Gao in Turning Red, Chi-Fu in Mulan, and has also appeared in Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D and Star Wars Rebels. We’d recognize that voice anywhere!

11. The Pizza Planet Truck
Arguably the most famous Pixar Easter Egg of all is the historic Pizza Planet Truck. This pizza delivery vehicle has been included in almost every single Pixar movie and Turning Red is no exception. The Pizza Planet Truck can be spotted toward the end of the film when Mei (in red panda form) is running down the streets of Toronto to get to the Skydome for the 4*Town concert.

12. Serving Your Local Star Cluster
You found the Pizza Planet Truck, but did you notice that the chain restaurant was also advertising at the 4*Town concert? When Mei’s grandmother and aunts start their red moon ritual at the Skydome, you can see a banner in the stands behind them promoting everyone’s favorite fictional pizza chain.

13. A113
Another Pixar classic is the sequence “A113,” a nod to a classroom at the California Institute of the Arts where many Disney and Pixar animators studied. A113 can be seen two times during Turning Red – first on the chalk machine that Mei’s dad uses to draw a large circle at the Skydome, and again during the film’s credits on a pair of 4*Town concert tickets.

14. It’s him, Robaire
Mei’s favorite musical group, 4*Town, is made up of five dreamy boy banders, one of whom is voiced by singer and actor, Jordan Fisher! In addition to voicing Robaire, you may also recognize his voice from the Walt Disney World nighttime spectacular, Happily Ever After. Fisher also starred in Disney’s Teen Beach Movie, High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, and Liv and Maddie. He also took home the coveted mirror ball trophy on the 25th season of Dancing with the Stars!

15. Dug’s Blue Jay
At the end of Turning Red we see the totally destroyed Skydome arena and a little blue bird pops into frame. Not only is the bird a nod to the Toronto Blue Jays, but the blue jay also appears in the Disney+ show Dug Days. In the fifth episode, titled “Science,” Dug communicates with a squirrel and a blue jay using the special collars created by Charles Muntz in UP.

16. 4*Town Easter Egg in Luca
Pixar famously loves to hide Easter Eggs for their upcoming projects in each film, just like the Lightyear references in Turning Red! So, where was Turning Red in Pixar’s last animated feature, Luca? When Luca is looking at books in Giulia’s bedroom, you can see a record on the shelf behind him that reads “4*Villaggi,”which means 4*Villages in Italian. This means Giulia is also a 4*Townie!

How many of these references did you notice? Stream Turning Red on Disney+ and see how many you can spot on your next re-watch! Keep reading D23.com for more information on your favorite Disney movies and more.