7 Burning Questions Answered About Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser

By Zach Johnson

Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser voyages begin March 1, 2022, and given that it’s a first-of-its-kind experience, we understand if you have a lot of questions. This week, we cruised aboard the famed ship—and now we’re here to answer your burning questions.

1. Is Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser a hotel?

Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser is not a hotel—it’s an entirely new vacation experience! It’s a two-night, immersive adventure where your choices impact an epic Star Wars story. There’s plenty to explore onboard the starcruiser with themed activities, accommodations, and more. Plus, you’ll visit Black Spire Outpost on Batuu during a daytime excursion to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser

2. How does the role-playing aspect of the experience work?

During your voyage, you won’t just meet new and familiar Star Wars characters—you’ll interact with them in ways you’ve only previously imagined. They need your help, and whether it’s through in-person conversations or private messages using your Star Wars: Datapad (via the Play Disney Parks mobile app), you can join them on daring missions. Remember: Characters you meet one day might lead to bold new adventures the next!

“Immersive theater is still relatively new to the industry, and I think Disney understands that not all guests have had the opportunity to experience it,” Alex Lee, Production Manager, Disney Live Entertainment, says. “We’ve created characters to help guide and inform how to play. This is very specific to [new character] Sandro Alimander, who’s there as a guest; he’s there as a window, so you can see how he interacts with the performers, how he’s interacting with you, and what the rules of engagement are that play through Sandro. Hopefully by seeing a unique character trying to participate and be part of this story, that inspires you as a guest to continue to play.”

3. Can I dress up in costume during my voyage?

Definitely! What you wear is part of the fun. Since you are a character in the story, it’s important to dress the part. If you wish to participate, you can even show off your look during the Outer Rim Regalia event! Clothes from your home planet are also welcome. Exclusive apparel is available in advance from shopDisney. Galactic attire is also available for purchase at The Chandrila Collection, the Halcyon starcruiser’s boutique.

Many of the items you’ll find on shopDisney or in The Chandrila Collection were reproduced from Star Warsfilms. “My team and I spent so much time in the [Lucasfilm] archives,” Brad Schoeneberg, VP of Brand Merchandising, says. “We held and measured the original costumes, so we knew what they felt like, we knew the materials, we knew the fabrications. We produced the most realistic items imaginable. What those actors felt wearing those costumes should give you a little hint of what you’re going to feel here.”

 Before you pack, please read over the Walt Disney World Resort Property Rules.

Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser

4. Will I encounter Star Wars characters during my adventures?

Yes. During your Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser voyage, you’ll interact with them in ways you’ve only dreamed of. You might help hide a Wookiee stowaway, or you might feed intel to the First Order to gain their trust. The choice is yours, but keep in mind that your interactions—and their perceptions—will affect how your adventure unfolds. You’ll also meet new characters about the Halcyon starcruiser, including crew members Captain Riyola Keevan, Cruise Director Lenka Mok, and Sammie the mechanic; droids SK-62O and D3-O9; and musicians Gaya, Ouannii, and Sandro Alimander. Watch out for the First Order Stormtroopers, who are under the command of Lt. Croy. During your voyage, you might even see some familiar faces from the Star Wars films, such as Rey and Kylo Ren.

“We brought in some industry experts in immersive theater to help us understand that craft and really make it a comfortable environment for everyone,” Marc Rothschild, Producer, Disney Live Entertainment, says. “Our actors are trained to guide the way and to help guide the story. It’s nice, because it’s a really intimate environment, so we are creating these really intimate conversations. I would say seek those out. If you’re not comfortable in the big stories and becoming part of it, then possibly just try an element in a smaller environment, maybe in your lightsaber training. It’s a good opportunity to see if you could be a different character and bring some story to that.”

5. How do I use the Star Wars: Datapad?

Star Wars: Datapad is one of the many fun, interactive experiences offered within the Play Disney Parks app*. It enhances your adventure when you visit Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, but more than that, it is an essential tool while aboard the Halcyon starcruiser. The Star Wars: Datapad offers a personalized itinerary of activities and events, and it presents communications from the crew and others you may encounter along the way.

For those who are less experienced role-players, the Star Wars: Datapad is a great way to begin interacting with characters. “I’m an introvert, so going up and talking to a person I’ve never met before is a little intimidating,” Anisha Deshmane, Creative Producer, Walt Disney Imagineering, says. “But having a person reach out to me and say, ‘We haven’t met yet, but I have this information I need to tell somebody about,’ gives me an invitation to play in a way I might not have accepted in-person. We’ve layered all of these different invitations for guests. Some people are going to have a great time hanging out in the Sublight Lounge, and a character is going to wander in and strike up a conversation with them. That’s an invitation to get involved in the story. Some of our some of our passengers are going to sit back and take a look at their Datapad and wait for messages to arrive. It’s another way to get invited into the story.”

If you are planning a Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser voyage, please download or update the Play Disney Parks App on your mobile device prior to your departure date.

Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser

6. What is the food and beverage experience like aboard the Halcyon starcruiser?

Breakfast and lunch are served in the glamorous Crown of Corellia Dining Room. Enjoy delicacies from across the galaxy, along with familiar favorites from your home planet.

Your days will begin with an off-planet breakfast of hot and cold small plates, along with a variety of beverages—including Bubo Wamba Family Farms blue milk! During lunch, you’ll have a choice of small bites, from salads and sandwiches to soups and sweets.

On the first night, the Crown of Corellia Dining Room transforms into a table-service supper club with a special musical appearance by the galactic superstar Gaya. Enjoy a special evening with distinctive dining and entertainment. On the second night, the “Taste Around the Galaxy” showcases courses inspired by the geography and surroundings of destination planets across the galaxy. Indicate your preference for first or second dinner seating (based on availability) when you book your vacation package.

Complimentary snacks are available in the Atrium on both days, and cocktails and other beverages, in addition to a few small bites, will be served in the Sublight Lounge.

7. How can I book a Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser vacation?

You can reserve a Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser voyage today by calling (407) 939-1800 between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m. p.m. ET. Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian’s permission to call. The cost of your Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser voyage varies based on your party size, voyage dates, and desired cabin or suite type.

Shining a Light on American Idol’s Milestone Season

By Zach Johnson

American Idol, the iconic series that revolutionized the music competition genre, will return for a fifth season on ABC and historic 20th season overall on Sunday, February 27, at 8 p.m. ET/PT. Judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie, along with award-winning host Ryan Seacrest, are back to find the nation’s next singing sensation.

For Seacrest, who has been with the series since its inception, American Idol represents far more than just good television—it’s a pop culture phenomenon that has discovered and developed icons such as Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Hudson, and Carrie Underwood. “To look back and see some of those contestants when they first met us on the road, and to then see the time that’s gone by and the success they’ve had, is impactful,” he says. “It’s pretty incredible. I got emotional watching some of those great moments, and I think back to the beginning of this show. When we started, it was a more personality-driven show. It’s been navigated to become a very heartfelt, human and artist-driven show because of what the judges have done. I think they’ve done that deliberately, and that’s what you’re seeing with these [newer] artists who may never have normally auditioned for American Idol in the past. The fact that they can audition on a computer now allows us to tap into talent that has never sung in front of human beings before, but yet can make it to the next level with these three superstar judges.”

During the milestone season, Seacrest hopes to bring out some familiar faces. “In terms of the contestants, I want to see every one of them come back,” he says. “I want to see way back to the beginning. I just remembered a moment with Clay Aiken and Ruben Studdard that we talk about all the time. I want to see Carrie again. I love seeing Jennifer Hudson. And for me, I can remember literally standing next to them, looking at their faces and their reactions in moments of success and in moments of challenge.”

This season, the judges will embark on a nationwide search across Austin, Texas; Los Angeles, California; and Nashville, Tennessee, where they will surprise audiences and hopefuls alike with never-before-seen twists—like the first-ever Platinum ticket winner.

“In each place, there were reserved Platinum tickets,” Perry explains. “We identified the best talent in each place, and we basically gave them this ticket, because usually all of our tickets are gold. A Platinum ticket gives them the ability to go to Hollywood Week, which we’ve already filmed; it was so rigorous and survival of the fittest. They got to basically observe from the box seats at the theater. One day, they got to rest their voices, strategize, check out the competition, and select who they want to duet with. So, they got a tiny advantage just because they’re the cream of the crop.”

According to executive producer and showrunner Megan Michaels Wolflick, who has been with American Idol from day one, the judges were almost always “unanimous” when it came to giving a contestant a Platinum ticket. Says Richie, “They were just naturals, you know what I mean? Some people just walk out and they are stars. They have all the boxes ticked: stage presence, delivery, their sound, their style—they have it all there. When they open their mouths, you know exactly who they are as artists. It rings that bell. When that happens, you give them a Platinum ticket as fast as you can.”

By this point in their American Idol tenures, the judges have a good sense of what works and what doesn’t. “Song selection is key,” says Bryan. “It tells us who they are as artists. It tells us how sharp they are as artists. It tells us how knowledgeable they are about where they want to take their career. When they’re rocking and rolling and they’re making great song choices, when they make a bad one, we’re like, ‘They shouldn’t have done that…’” Perry adds, “Some of them say, ‘Oh, I’m going to pick an Ariana Grande song,’ and then they sound nothing like Ariana Grande. And if you’re going to pick a Whitney Houston song, you want to reinvent it or do it your own way.”

One of the biggest song selection risks a contestant can take is performing something from one of the three judges’ catalogues. “Sometimes they’ll pick one of our songs and we’ll just be like, ‘OK… Go ahead. Walk the plank,’” Perry says with a laugh. “But we do get surprised every once in a while. There was one girl who did ‘Harleys in Hawaii’ that really surprised me, and I was like, ‘Wow, girl! Don’t sing me out of a job!’”

True to form, American Idol will feature contestants from all walks of life and span all musical genres. According to Michaels Woflick, “Our number of signups for auditions this year was higher than last year. They’ve been training for American Idol their whole lives. The average age of our finalists this year is 20, so it’s really a full‑circle moment.”

Watch American Idol episodes on demand and on Hulu the day after their premieres.

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

By Andie Hagemann

This weekend is jam-packed with sidesplitting animated comedies, lots of adventure, and memorable musical performances! Peaches’ wedding is in peril thanks to Scrat’s hijinks in Ice Age: Collision Course, airing on Saturday—and later that day, watch The Proud Family Movie, where everyone’s favorite family takes a vacation… with a twist. Find out what happens when the visitors leave and the sun goes down during a Night at the Museum on Sunday; that same day, learn about some of the iconic women behind the United States’ space exploration with a viewing of Hidden Figures. And don’t miss the American Idol season premiere that evening!

Ice Age: Collision Course—Saturday, February 26, at 12 p.m. ET, on FXM
Manny (voiced by Ray Romano) isn’t pleased when his daughter, Peaches (voiced by Keke Palmer), announces her engagement—and Sid (voiced by John Leguizamo), devastated after his fake girlfriend dumps him, volunteers to help plan the wedding. Despite Manny’s trepidation, nothing can stop the nuptials… except, perhaps, the end of the world! When Scrat (voiced by Chris Wedge) accidentally launches himself into outer space, he sets off a chain reaction that sends an asteroid plunging toward Earth. Now, the entire herd must explore new lands and save itself from Scrat’s snafu.

The Proud Family Movie—Saturday, February 26, at 3:30 p.m. ET, on Disney Channel
Itching for more hilarious Proud Family content? Well, look no further! In this animated feature, Penny Proud (voiced by Kyla Pratt) and her family are lured on an all-expenses paid vacation by a devious scientist, Dr. Carver (voiced by Arsenio Hall), who wants the secret Proud Snacks formula. When Oscar (voiced by Tommy Davidson) refuses to reveal it, Dr. Carver holds the Prouds captive as he builds his peanut clones. Who will come to their rescue?

Night at the Museum—Sunday, February 27, at 3 p.m. ET, on Disney Channel
Larry Daley (Ben Stiller) is a newly hired security guard at the American Museum of Natural History, dreaming of a more fulfilling life. However, Larry’s night shift is quickly turned upside down when he discovers the animals and exhibits in the museum to come to life every night, thanks to an ancient Egyptian curse. Disney Legends Dick Van Dyke and Robin Williams also star in this adventure-filled comedy.

Hidden Figures—Sunday, February 27, at 4:55 p.m. ET, on FXM
Watch the stirring true story of Katherine Johnson (Taraji P. Henson), Dorothy Vaughan (Octavia Spencer), and Mary Jackson (Janelle Monae)—three brilliant Black women working as mathematicians at NASA’s Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia, amid the exciting 1960s space race. The women serve as the brains behind astronaut John Glenn’s historic launch into outer space, inspiring an entire nation to chase their own dreams.

American Idol—Sunday, February 27, at 8 p.m. ET/PT, on ABC
Superstar judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie, along with host Ryan Seacrest, return for the historic 20th season (and fifth season on ABC) of the iconic music competition series. During a nationwide search—across Nashville, Austin, and Los Angeles—the legendary judges will surprise contestants and audiences alike with never-before-seen twists, including the first-ever Platinum ticket winner. Which aspiring crooner is destined to become America’s next singing sensation? You’ll have to tune in to find out!

Celebrating the 85th Anniversary of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs

Snow White reawakens in an exclusive Disney Movie Club anniversary edition, including a new featurette: 10 Ways Snow White Changed Animation Forever.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs was not only a groundbreaking movie for The Walt Disney Company, but a watershed moment for animation. Today it’s hard to imagine there once was a time when there wasn’t a full-length animated movie—but before 1937’s Snow White hit the screen, people called the movie “Walt’s Folly” and warned that viewers might go blind from watching a “cartoon” for that long. As we know now, Snow White started a new genre of movies not only for Disney, but also for the whole film industry!

Though it’s well known that Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs was the first full-length animated feature, did you know it was the first movie to have a soundtrack?  Or that it was the first movie to use film actors to create realistic animated characters in a technique called “live-action reference”? That may be a standard in the animator’s toolbox today, but it was first done for the 1937 film.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs was responsible for many “firsts,” not just for animation but for all of cinema. In celebration of the 85th anniversary of Snow White, the Disney Movie Club has created an all-new featurette, 10 Ways Snow White Changed Animation Forever, exploring these groundbreaking precedents.  

In the featurette, Don Hahn (producer, Beauty and the Beast, The Lion King), Becky Cline (director of the Walt Disney Archives), and Disney historian Paula Sigman Lowery take us on a journey back to the 1930s to explore the achievements of this Walt Disney classic. You’ll also hear from legendary animators Frank Thomas and Marc Davis, and Walt Disney himself, through archival audio recordings and interviews. Fresh insights will give you a whole new appreciation for the artistic and technological achievements of Disney’s first full-length animated feature film.

There’s an indefinable quality to Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs that makes it one of the greatest films of any kind—recognized for its pioneering production, superb storytelling, exquisite artistic merit, and enormous heart. It’s one of a kind, always ready to be awakened for new generations.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs 85th Anniversary Edition on Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy, including the 10 Ways Snow White Changed Animation Forever featurette (on the Blu-ray disc), is available exclusively through the Disney Movie Club beginning March 22, 2022. This special anniversary edition also features collectible cover art based on the original 1937 theatrical poster.

Visit DisneyMovieClub.com to join the Disney Movie Club or reserve your copy of the Club-Exclusive anniversary edition of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs today!

See (and Hear) These 10 Easter Eggs in Free Guy

By Courtney Potter

With the film now on Disney+, keep your eyes peeled for some not-so-hidden fun referencing the worlds of Disney!

20th Century Studios’ adventure-comedy Free Guy stars Ryan Reynolds as, well, Guy—a bank teller who, after discovering he’s actually a background player in an open-world video game, decides to become the hero of his own story… one he rewrites himself. Now in a world where there are literally no limits, he’s determined to be the guy who saves his world his way before it’s too late. And here’s some great news: You can now find the film—and follow along with Guy’s incredible (and incredibly hilarious) shenanigans—on Disney+!

If you’ve already seen Free Guy on the big screen, you may recall that the film is positively chockablock with pop culture references… including many from around the worlds of Disney. Whether it’s your first viewing, or you’re returning for another round of Guy, here are a few of the Easter eggs to keep an eye (and ear) out for. And don’t worry—none of these Easter eggs give away too much of the film’s plot!

Marvel Cinematic Universe, Meet Guy’s Universe
In a story where the proverbial good guys battle the bad guys, you won’t be surprised to learn there are several references to the MCU within Free Guy—including a poster for Avengers: Infinity War in a character’s bedroom; the appearance of Captain America’s shield, as well as the Hulk’s hand; and even a Thanos-inspired Fortnite dance! (Oh, and make sure to listen closely too—you may hear familiar Avengers-related theme music.)

Ryan Reynolds’ Worlds Collide
With someone as funny and self-deprecating as Reynolds as the star of the film, it should come as no surprise that another poster seen in Free Guy is for Deadpool—Reynolds’ 2016 movie based on the Marvel Comics character of the same name

Halloweentown Makes an Appearance
Keep your eyes peeled for a figurine depicting Jack Skellington from Disney’s 1993 stop-motion-animated classic Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.

Let It Guy
At one point in the film, Guy helps a little girl… who just happens to be wearing Anna’s dress from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Frozen.

In a Galaxy Far, Far Away…
What’s another classic pop-culture universe for Free Guy to reference? Star Wars, of course! Watch for Guy to get his Jedi on when he suddenly appears wielding Luke Skywalker’s blue Lightsaber. (And listen for the iconic Star Wars theme music!)

See all these Easter eggs—and so many more!—in action now that Free Guy is available for streaming on Disney+.

All About The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder’s Guest Stars

By Zach Johnson

It seems everyone who’s anyone wants to be part of The Proud Family revival.

When The Proud Family aired on Disney Channel from 2001 to 2005, the animated series boasted such A-list guest stars as Solange Knowles, Shia LaBeouf, Mo’Nique, and Cicely Tyson. The tradition of bringing in top-tier talent continues in the revival series The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder, now streaming exclusively on Disney+.

In fact, the previously announced guest star lineup includes some of Hollywood’s biggest names: Lizzo, Lil Nas X, Chance the Rapper, Normani, Leslie Odom Jr., Tiffany Haddish, Lena Waithe, Anthony Anderson, Gabrielle Union, Debbie Allen, James Pickens Jr., Courtney B. Vance, Jane Lynch, Marsai Martin, Jaden Smith, Glynn Turman, Lamorne Morris, Brenda Song, Tina Knowles, Eva Longoria, Holly Robinson Peete, Al Roker, Bretman Rock, Gabby Douglas, Laurie Hernandez, and Dominique Dawes.

Tommy Davidson, who returns as the voice of Oscar Proud, was particularly excited when he found out that Lil Nas X would be among the guest stars. “I knew we were gonna do something wild with him,” he tells D23. “I knew he was going to bring a little twist, and he did. He really did.” The rapper “is really hot” career-wise, Davidson adds. “I always want to be a part of something hot!”

Can’t wait to meet their characters? Disney+ recently introduced fans to a few of them:

Lizzo as herself, the first singer Oscar Proud (voiced by Davidson) hires to perform at his new theme park, SnackLand

Jaden Smith as College Myron, the college version of Myron Lewinski

Lena Waithe as College Maya, the college version of Maya Leibowitz-Jenkins

Al Roker as himself, a wish-granting genie

Lamorne Morris as himself, a headliner in a musical

Brenda Song as Vanessa Vue, a local TV news reporter who covers Oscar’s most embarrassing escapades

Want to meet the other new characters? The rest will be introduced when new episodes of The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder debut Wednesdays on Disney+.

Four Nighttime Spectaculars Return to Disneyland Resort

By the D23 Team

The Disneyland Resort proudly presents the homecoming of four beloved nighttime spectaculars and a new grand finale to the Main Street Electrical Parade for its 50th anniversary.

On Friday, April 22, 2022, the Main Street Electrical Parade and Disneyland Forever fireworks spectacular will ignite the night at Disneyland Park, and World of Color will return to Disney California Adventure Park. Fantasmic! is preparing for its return to Disneyland on Saturday, May 28, 2022.

Since Disneyland Resort reopened in April 2021, guests have been able to rediscover the wonders and magic of returning entertainment—such as Jambalaya Jazz in New Orleans Square at Disneyland and Disney Junior Dance Party! at Disney California Adventure. New experiences have been introduced, too, like the Raya encounter in Redwood Creek Challenge Trail, and Celebrate Soulfully entertainment throughout the month of February. Each of these offerings highlights the incredible momentum at the Disneyland Resort as part of its phased reopening.

Expanding the Parade

A guest favorite since its debut in 1972, Main Street Electrical Parade features cherished floats such as the classic train and drum unit and Elliot the Dragon. With an electronic musical score based on “Baroque Hoedown” by Jean-Jacques Perrey and Gershon Kingsley, this parade was the first to play unique musical arrangements synchronized to each float unit. The lineup of floats has changed over the years, and Disney Parks around the world have presented evolving versions of this iconic parade.

To honor the milestone anniversary of Main Street Electrical Parade, Disney Live Entertainment will introduce a magnificent grand finale that celebrates the theme of togetherness in an all-new float. This universal theme is reflected in the creative concept of the grand finale sequence, drawing inspiration from the original design of classic Main Street Electrical Parade floats and Mary Blair’s one-of-a-kind art style on “it’s a small world”. The seven-segment float stretches 118 feet in length and brings to life more than a dozen Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios films, making it one of the longest and grandest sequences in the parade’s history. These stories will be interpreted in thousands of sparkling lights and electro-synthe-magnetic music, with unique representations of beloved characters as animated dolls.

Guests along each side of the parade route will see different stylized scenes from classic and contemporary favorite stories such as Encanto, The Jungle Book, Raya and the Last Dragon, Aladdin, Coco, Mulan, Brave, The Princess and the Frog, and much more! The finale also pays tribute to the parade’s heritage with the return of the Blue Fairy from Pinocchio and a unique, 19-foot-tall representation of Sleeping Beauty Castle.

Let the Shows Begin!

World of Color at Disney California Adventure brings animation to life with powerful fountains that create an immense screen of water. Combining music, fire, fog, and laser effects with memorable animated sequences, World of Color floods the senses and immerses audiences in some favorite Disney and Pixar stories, including scenes like WALL-E and Eve zipping through the cosmos, Pocahontas exploring just around the riverbend, and Jack Sparrow battling on the sea. The mega-scale spectacular is presented on a massive “stage” of water, color, and light that is bigger than a football field and encompasses all of Paradise Bay. Plus, the powerful fountains can send water to heights ranging from 30 feet to 200 feet—higher than the top of Pixar Pal-A-Round!

The inspiration for the show came from Walt Disney himself, and World of Color is tied together by a soaring musical score that includes familiar Disney melodies and a contemporary version of the 1960s television theme for Walt Disney’s Wonderful World of Color, originally composed by Disney Legends Richard B. and Robert M. Sherman, the Oscar®-winning composers of “it’s a small world,” “The Tiki Tiki Tiki Room,” and many other memorable songs for Disney.

Disneyland Forever fireworks spectacular is a street-to-sky celebration filled with sparkling pyrotechnics and immersive projections that envelop guests in a breathtaking journey with surprising special effects. Main Street, U.S.A., and a few other spots in Disneyland become a magical canvas, transporting guests from an Anaheim orange grove into the worlds of timeless Disney and Pixar stories. Disneyland Forever also features two original songs: the theme “Live the Magic,” and the inspiring closing song “Kiss Goodnight,” written by Richard B. Sherman.

Main Street Electrical Parade and Disneyland Forever will be available for a limited time at Disneyland. From April 22 to late spring, Disneyland Forever will perform Fridays through Sundays, and the Mickey’s Mix Magic projections-only show is scheduled Mondays through Thursdays. Disneyland Forever fireworks will then run nightly in the summer. World of Color will return to its regular schedule upon reopening.

Fantasmic! Lights Up the Night

Celebrating its 30th anniversary at Disneyland in 2022, Fantasmic! is Disney’s longest-running nighttime show. Fantasmic! is an emotional extravaganza of colorful Disney-animated film images, choreographed to an exciting musical score and highlighted by the 45-foot-tall, fire-breathing Maleficent dragon. The waters of the Rivers of America come alive as Mickey Mouse dreams he is the Sorcerer’s Apprentice and faces some of Disney’s most dastardly villains, using the power of his imagination to save the day. Along the way, fantastic events and images as seen in Disney films like Fantasia, The Jungle Book, Pirates of the Caribbean, and more come to life with live performers, character appearances, enhanced special effects, and pyrotechnics.

Fantasmic! will return to its regular schedule beginning May 28.

It continues to be an incredibly exciting time at the Disneyland Resort with the return of these nighttime spectaculars and an entertaining slate of other fan-favorite offerings.

Guests may view the latest entertainment details and schedules at Disneyland.com and the Disneyland mobile app.

Everything You Need to Know About The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder

By Zach Johnson

The Proud family is back… even though it feels like they never left!

Premiering on Wednesday, February 23, on Disney+ with two episodes, The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder follows the adventures and misadventures of 14-year-old Penny Proud (voiced by Kyla Pratt), her madcap family, and her loyal crew as they navigate modern life. The long-anticipated revival of the groundbreaking animated series The Proud Family hails from executive producers Bruce W. Smith and Ralph Farquhar, both of whom led the original series.

“A lot has changed in 20 years,” says Farquhar. “That’s for sure!”

Before you stream the first two episodes, here’s everything you need to know:

Who is reprising their roles from The Proud Family?
In addition to Pratt, the legacy voice cast includes Tommy Davidson as Oscar Proud, Paula Jai Parker as Trudy Proud, JoMarie Payton as Suga Mama, Cedric “The Entertainer” as Uncle Bobby, Karen Malina White as Dijonay Jones, Alisa Reyes as LaCienega Boulevardez, and Soleil Moon Frye as Zoey Howzer. “I’d always hoped we’d come back,” Pratt tells D23. “I’ve had so many people come up to me throughout the years, telling me how much The Proud Family meant to them. I’m excited to be a part of something that started so long ago and is still so beloved to this day. Now, we get to come back and do a newer, improved, updated version—2022 style!”

Pratt wasn’t the only one crossing her fingers, of course. Says Payton, “For years, people were begging for the show to come back. I’m so happy we’re back—and we’re louder and prouder!”

In addition to the lead voice actors, returning recurring cast members include Carlos Mencia as Felix Boulevardez, Maria Canals-Barrera as Sunset Boulevardez, Alvaro Gutierrez as Papi, Marcus T. Paulk as Myron Lewinski, and Raquel Lee Bolleau as Nubia Gross.

Who’s new to the cast?
EJ Johnson voices Michael Collins, one of Penny’s friends from the original series. This version of Michael, however, is different than fans may remember. Michael is a nonconforming trendsetter, serving up fierce looks at school and on the basketball court. “Not to be rude, but I don’t remember him in the original series,” Johnson says of their character. “But they are very fabulous in this one, and that’s all that matters. This version of Michael is everything that I am.”

Asante Blackk voices Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Brown, Penny’s new boyfriend. In addition, fans will meet members of the new-to-town Leibowitz-Jenkins family. Billy Porter and Zachary Quinto voice husbands Randall and Barry, respectively. They are the proud parents of 14-year-old activist Maya (voiced by Keke Palmer) and gamer Francis “KG” (voiced by Artist “A Boogie” Dubose), who not only have to deal with being the new kids but also with being raised by two dads—a first for Smithville. (Click here for more details on the Leibowitz-Jenkins family.)

The legacy cast was elated to see such notable names join them in bringing The Proud Family into the streaming age. “I’m a huge Billy Porter fan,” says Parker. “I’m like his Twitter and Instagram stalker! The fact that he came on was surprising, but he told me he loves me, too!”

The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder

Who are the celebrity guest stars?
Talk about star power! Boldfaced names voicing characters in The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder include Lizzo, Lil Nas X, Chance the Rapper, Normani, Leslie Odom Jr., Tiffany Haddish, Lena Waithe, Anthony Anderson, Gabrielle Union, Debbie Allen, James Pickens Jr., Courtney B. Vance, Jane Lynch, Marsai Martin, Jaden Smith, Glynn Turman, Lamorne Morris, Brenda Song, Tina Knowles, Eva Longoria, Holly Robinson Peete, Al Roker, Bretman Rock, Gabby Douglas, Laurie Hernandez, and Dominique Dawes!

Although it’s hard to pick a favorite, Davidson tells D23 he was particularly excited when he found out that rapper Lil Nas X would be guest starring. “I knew we were gonna do something wild with him,” he recalls. “I knew he was going to bring a little twist, and he did. He really did.”

Who’s on the creative team?
In addition to franchise veterans Smith and Farquhar, who in 2020 entered a broad overall deal with Disney Branded Television, Calvin Brown Jr. is the series’ co-executive producer and story editor. Jan Hirota is the producer, and Eastwood Wong is the art director.

“Most of the people working on the show now were fans of the show back in the day,” Farquhar tells D23. “I describe it as being the ultimate fan art, if you will. Bruce and I guide the ship, but the writers, the artists, and the directors are the ones bringing in the authentic points of view.”

Who sings the main title?
Recording artist and rising star Joyce Wrice puts a modern spin on the series’ catchy theme song, originally performed by Destiny’s Child and Solange. In the featurette above, Rice says her iteration needed to reflect the series’ evolution while also paying homage to the “iconic” and “timeless” version fans love. “The theme song is very similar to the original, [but] the production, the beat is different. I just want to put a little bit of my own twist to it, and pay my dues and respect to Destiny’s Child, [composer] Kurt [Farquhar], and everyone on the original.”

How can I watch the series?
The 10-episode season will premiere exclusively on Disney+ on Wednesday, February 23, with two episodes.  New episodes stream every Wednesday. Want more? Subscribers can also stream both seasons of The Proud Family (52 episodes in total), as well as The Proud Family Movie (2005).

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Week

By Andie Hagemann

Get ready to laugh, because hilarious content is landing on your televisions and streaming devices this week! Groundbreaking animated series The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder premieres on Wednesday with new two episodes. Then, watch a new episode of Home Economics that night—which may inspire some living room salsa dancing—and make some time for the streamer debut of Free Guy. Meanwhile, the doctors of Grey Sloan Memorial cope with loss after a devastating car accident on Thursday’s episode of Grey’s Anatomy. For a Christmas flashback, don’t miss the Disney+ debut of Marvel Super Hero Adventures: Frost Fight! on Friday, which has the Avengers saving the holiday season from an old foe!

The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder—Wednesday, February 23, on Disney+
Everyone’s favorite loud and proud family is back, and they’re tackling the 2020s together. In a continuation of the hit Disney Channel series, 14-year-old Penny Proud (voiced by Kyla Pratt) and her relatives and friends make their triumphant return for more adventures… and misadventures. The highly anticipated series premieres with two episodes, and subsequent episodes will debut weekly. Penny relies on her pals to survive life as a teenager in the age of social media, while Suga Mama (voiced by Jo Marie Payton) dispenses tough love and compassion when needed.

Home Economics—Wednesday, February 23, at 9:31 p.m. ET on ABC
They’re going to put on their boogie shoes in this brand-new episode, as an unlikely pair hits the dance floor. Marina (Karla Souza, above) convinces Connor (Jimmy Tatro, above) to dance with his housekeeper, Lupe (Lidia Porto), in a salsa competition as an attempt to bond with her. Meanwhile, Sarah (Caitlin McGee) and Denise (Sasheer Zamata) take care of Tom (Topher Grace) as he recuperates from a medical procedure… but will he be an easy patient?

 Free Guy—Wednesday, February 23, on Disney+
Don’t have a good day, have a great day… because this action-packed comedy—intended for a mature audience—is now available on the streamer! Ryan Reynolds stars as Guy, a bank teller who discovers he is a background player in an open-world video game. Guy chooses to become the hero of his own story—one he rewrites himself. Now in a world where there are no limits, he is determined to be the guy who saves his world his way… before it is too late.

 Grey’s Anatomy—Thursday, February 24, at 9 p.m. ET, on ABC
The Station 19 and Grey’s Anatomy winter crossover event continues with the Grey Sloan Memorial doctors grappling with the aftermath of the car crash that involved some of their own. Meanwhile, Meredith (Ellen Pompeo) works to save the life of Dr. Hamilton (Peter Gallagher). Plus, Link (Chris Carmack) confronts Amelia (Caterina Scorsone) when he spots her moving on with a new love interest.

Marvel Super Hero Adventures: Frost Fight!—Friday, February 25, on Disney+
Assemble for the debut of this animated Christmas-themed special on the streamer. Captain America (voiced by Matthew Mercer) and the Avengers unite to stop the infamous Loki (voiced by Troy Baker) and the frost giant, Ymir, from stealing powers from Santa Claus (voiced by Steve Blum) powers. Can the Avengers save Santa before the holiday is ruined forever?

Every Major Announcement from FX at the TCA Winter Press Tour

By Andie Hagemann

During the Television Critics Association’s Winter Press Tour, FX showcased returning series and made exciting announcements about upcoming projects!

Hit comedy series Better Things begins its fifth and final chapter on Monday, February 28, with the Fox women moving on to the next phase of their lives. Meanwhile, award-winning series Fargo will return for a fifth installment set in 2019, and Academy Award®-winning actress Olivia Colman will star as Miss Havisham in the limited-series adaptation of Great Expectations. Plus, a peek at other forthcoming titles from FX.

Read on for all the noteworthy details…

Atlanta

Atlanta (Season Three Premieres March 24 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on FX)
After a four-year absence, Atlanta returns with its third season premiering on Thursday, March 24, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on FX and—for the first time ever—in-season streaming the next day on Hulu. The fourth and final season is slated to debut in the fall.

Season three is set (and filmed) almost entirely in Europe, and follows Earn (Donald Glover), Paper Boi (Brian Tyree Henry), Darius (LaKeith Stanfield), and Van (Zazie Beetz)—in the midst of a successful European tour—as they navigate their new surroundings as outsiders and struggle to adjust to the newfound success they had aspired to. “We play a lot with ambiguity,” said Hiro Murai, executive producer and director. “It’s a lot of interactions that kind of hit you in a weird way and you don’t know how to take it. And so, I think we lean into that a little bit more this season, just because it’s kind of a ‘fish out of water’ story. The cast is in Europe and there’s a literal language barrier. I think we leaned into what made us feel weird about being there.”

Snowfall

Snowfall (Season Five Premieres Wednesday, February 23 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on FX)
FX’s most-watched series, Snowfall, returns for a fifth season after a critically acclaimed fourth installment. Season five premieres on Wednesday, February 23, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on FX and streaming on Hulu.

Set in the summer of 1986, Franklin Saint (Damson Idris) and his entire family are rich beyond their wildest dreams, on the verge of having everything they’ve ever wanted… right as the ground begins to fall out from under their feet. The sudden and tragic death of basketball star Len Bias makes the rock cocaine epidemic front-page news, the target of both Democrat and Republican lawmakers. Law enforcement is on a warpath and the militarization of the L.A.P.D. continues as police and politicians decide the only way to deal with this growing scourge is through force—and the creation of the new C.R.A.S.H. (Community Resources Against Street Hoodlums) units. The streets of south-central Los Angeles are more dangerous than ever, as the Saint family navigates the police, the warring gangs, and the CIA. Through it all, the biggest threat the family faces is each other… while they try not to let greed, resentment, and ego tear them apart.

“The essence that [the late John] Singleton implanted in me was to just be truthful—stay true to the story, true to the people of the times and really respect this time,” said Idris, who is also a producer on the series. “We often talk about the bad that came out of this time, but so much good came out of it, too. It had a huge impact on pop culture, fashion, music—and that’s what the show shines a lens on.” Created by Singleton and Eric Amadio and Dave Andron, Snowfall is executive produced by Singleton, Andron (who serves as showrunner), Amadio, Thomas Schlamme, Michael London, Trevor Engelson, Leonard Chang, Walter Mosley and Julie DeJoie. Snowfall is produced by FX Productions.

Better Things

Better Things (Season Five Premieres Monday, February 28 at 10 p.m. ET/PT on FX)
The fifth and final chapter focuses on the road ahead for its unconventional, unfiltered heroine, Sam Fox (Pamela Adlon)—so devoted to her life as a working actor and single mother of three that she’s left little time for that one elusive thing: herself. As she navigates three daughters, each coming of age; the challenges of her chosen career; and her mother’s increasing signs of aging (as well as her own), Sam embraces each moment, and each member of her family, with a fierce love, raw honesty, and biting humor. As each of the Fox women come of age into the next phase of their life, they are inspired to reevaluate themselves, learn from the past and find their own direction.

Said director, writer, executive producer and star Adlon about the final season, “It’s deeply personal to me because my kids are all grown now—and look at Olivia and Hannah and Mikey; it’s shocking! I mean, we’ve been working on this for seven years. When you’re a parent, and your kids grow up, it’s like Sam says in the first episode: ‘I’m jealous of everybody who gets to meet you down the road.’ She’s ready to launch these kids—but it’s really mean that they grew up and they’re leaving everybody in the dust a little bit, especially here[touching her heart].”

Watch the conclusion of the Fox family’s journey beginning Monday, February 28, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on FX and streaming on Hulu.

Further Announcements from FX Entertainment:

DAVE
FX Networks has renewed its hit comedy DAVE for its third season, which is set to air in 2023. Based on the life of rapper and comedian Dave Burd, DAVE is centered on a neurotic man in his late twenties who has convinced himself that he’s destined to be one of the best rappers of all time. Now he must convince his closest friends because, with their help, he actually might convince the world…

The series stars Burd as Dave, Taylor Misiak as Ally, Andrew Santino as Mike, GaTa as GaTa, Travis Bennett as Elz, and Christine Ko as Emma. The series is produced by FX Productions.

Great Expectations
FX and BBC have also set the cast for Great Expectations, the six-part limited series adaptation of the Charles Dickens classic from Oscar® nominee and BAFTA Award-winning writer Steven Knight—who previously penned the FX original movie A Christmas Carol. The stellar cast will feature Olivia Colman as Miss Havisham and Fionn Whitehead as Pip—alongside Ashley Thomas, Johnny Harris, Shalom Brune-Franklin, Hayley Squires, Owen McDonnell, Trystan Gravelle, and Matt Berry.

Knight will write and executive produce the series; Tom Hardy, Ridley Scott, Dean Baker, David W. Zucker, Kate Crowe, and Mona Qureshi—the team behind A Christmas Carol—also executive producer for the BBC. Great Expectations will be produced by FX Productions in association with the BBC, Scott Free and Hardy Son & Baker. Lucy Forbes will serve as lead director.

Great Expectations and A Christmas Carol are the first two in a series of adaptations of Dickens’ novels commissioned by Piers Wenger, Director of Drama and Charlotte Moore, Chief Content Officer at the BBC and FX.

Fargo
FX’s Fargo—the Emmy®, AFI, Peabody and TCA Award-winning limited series created, written, and directed by Noah Hawley—will return for a fifth installment, as announced by Eric Schrier, president, FX Entertainment.

“Noah and Warren have delighted and inspired fans through four brilliant chapters of Fargo and we’re thrilled to announce, with our partners at MGM, a new chapter of what has become one of TV’s best and most acclaimed series,” said Schrier.

Fargo has traveled through decades, cities and families, and the fifth installment will be no different: Set in 2019, it begs the question: When is a kidnapping not a kidnapping, and what if your wife isn’t yours?

Peabody and Emmy Award-winning executive producer Hawley, and his production company 26 Keys, lead the creative team of the latest all-new installment of the award-winning, true crime story. Warren Littlefield and his production company The Littlefield Company also serve as executive producer, along with Joel and Ethan Coen and Steve Stark of Toluca Pictures. Fargo is produced by MGM Television and FX Productions, with MGM Television serving as the lead studio and MGM distributing the series internationally.

More FX Shows to Come…
Inspired by Jon Krakauer’s New York Times bestselling book, Under the Banner of Heaven is a new limited series, adapted by Academy Award winner Dustin Lance Black and starring Academy Award nominee Andrew Garfield, Normal People’s Daisy Edgar‑Jones, and Sam Worthington. The series will premiere this spring, exclusively on Hulu, Disney+ and Star+.

Coming in May is Pistol, from Oscar‑winning director Danny Boyle. It faithfully captures the story of Sex Pistols—the British‑born, anti‑establishment, punk music band who started a revolution. The six-episode limited series debuts later this spring, exclusively on Hulu, Disney+ and Star+.

Workplace comedy The Bear follows Carmen “Carmy” Berzatto (Jeremy Allen White), a young chef from the fine‑dining world, who comes home to Chicago to run his family’s sandwich shop after the death of a loved one. The half-hour series from the team of Christopher Storer, Joanna Calo, and Atlanta’s Hiro Murai premieres this summer and will air exclusively on Hulu, Disney+ and Star+.

The highly anticipated series The Old Man, produced by 20th Television, is now in production.

The series centers on Dan Chase, portrayed by the iconic Jeff Bridges, who disappeared from the CIA decades ago and has been living off the grid ever since. The cast is rounded out by John Lithgow, Amy Brenneman, and Alia Shawkat. The series will debut this summer on FX and the next day on Hulu and will be streamed globally on Star+ and Disney+.

The animated comedy Little Demon follows Laura Feinberg and her Antichrist daughter, Chrissy, as they attempt to live an ordinary life in Delaware, but are constantly thwarted by monstrous forces—including Satan—who yearns for custody of his daughter’s soul. The series features the voices of Danny DeVito, Aubrey Plaza, and Lucy DeVito, and was created and written by Darcy Fowler, Seth Kirschner, and Kieran Valla.

The new limited series The Patient is a taut psychological thriller starring Steve Carell and Domhnall Gleeson, from creators Joel Fields and Joe Weisberg—their first project since their Emmy Award‑winning drama The Americans. It is currently in production in Los Angeles and will premiere later this year.

Limited series Class of ’09, starring Brian Tyree Henry and Kate Mara, is set to premiere later this year. This FBI suspense thriller was created by Emmy Award‑winning writer Tom Rob Smith.

Welcome to Wrexham is a docuseries about the Wrexham Red Dragons football club, the third oldest professional organized soccer team in the U.K., and their devoted fans in the town of Wrexham, Wales. Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds bought the club and are making a significant investment to restore this once‑great franchise and ignite renewed hope for a great, working‑class town fallen on hard times. Welcome to Wrexham will air later this year.

The docuseries Dear Mama—the story of Afeni and Tupac Shakur from award‑winning director Allen Hughes—will also debut later this year.

From ABC Signature Studios, Fleishman Is in Trouble, based on the New York Times bestseller by Taffy Brodesser‑Akner, stars Jesse Eisenberg, Lizzy Caplan, and Claire Danes. Valerie Faris and John Dayton are directors and executive producers. It is currently in production in New York.

FX recently ordered the drama series Kindred, based on Octavia Butler’s classic of the same title, written by Branden Jacobs‑Jenkins and starring Mallori Johnson and Micah Stock. The popular science-fiction novel, released in 1979, is regarded as a visionary work to this day. The series begins production later this spring.

Retreat, created by Brit Marling and Zal Batmanglij, is a radical, modern reinvention of the classic whodunit starring Emmy‑nominated Emma Corrin and the recently announced Clive Owen. Production begins at the end of the month in Iceland and New Jersey.

FX recently ordered the limited series Justified: City Primeval, based on Elmore Leonard’s City Primeval: High Noon in Detroit. The series will star Timothy Olyphant, who reunites with the original creative team, including Dave Andron, Michael Dinner, and Graham Yost.

Production is currently underway on the epic period drama Shōgun, based on the best‑selling novel by James Clavell. In terms of scale and scope, according to FX, it’s the most ambitious production in their history.

The television series Alien—from Noah Hawley and executive producer Ridley Scott, based on the classic film of the same title—is in pre-production. This series won’t begin physical production until next year.

Also, FX will debut two limited series spinoffs from 20th Television, as part of Ryan Murphy’s award‑winning American Stories franchise: The first is Gladiator: American Sports Story—the story of the rise and fall of New England Patriots’ Super Bowl‑winning tight end Aaron Hernandez; and the second is JFK Jr. and Carolyn Bessette: American Love Story, which chronicles the couple’s love affair and tragic death.