Meet the Women of Walt Disney Imagineering

Women of Walt Disney Imagineering is a tribute to the trailblazing women who have contributed to Disney Parks over the last half-century as a part of the Imagineering team. Architects, interior designers, producers, and development executives—these incredible artists have produced unforgettable experiences for guests across the globe, and now they are telling their stories in their own words. Whet your appetite with some tidbits about the 12 women featured in this upcoming anthology, available now for pre-order.

Maggie Elliot – Senior Vice President, Creative Development Administration

Elliot calls herself a “true Disney kid,” and her roots in Imagineering are deep; her father, a Disney Studio art director, headed Imagineering after Walt Disney’s death. Beginning as an apprentice model maker in 1968, Maggie was the first woman to ascend the ranks of Imagineering management—rising from manager of the Model Shop, to director of creative development administration, and then to VP of creative development administration before retiring as senior vice president in 1994.

Favorite project she worked on?
“Enchanted Tiki Room, because it’s the first show I worked when I first started working in 1968.”

A favorite memory or story from her time with WDI:
“The first time I met Walt Disney!”

What is Elliot’s favorite Disney Parks attraction?
“it’s a small world and shopping on Main Street.”

Eli Erlandson, Principal Concept Architect

Erlandson wanted to study art, but her immigrant parents insisted she study anything else—and encouraged medicine or engineering. She chose architecture, which had its own challenges in a male-dominated profession. For many years, she was the only woman at Imagineering who had an architectural license. She worked on 11 of 12 Disney theme parks and has lived in Hong Kong and Paris; she is also an accomplished set designer and art director.

Favorite project she worked on:
“I am fortunate that all the projects I worked on hold special memories and also positive resolutions to difficult challenges that needed our attention. Working on the EPCOT World Showcase project is probably one of my most memorable experiences; even though traveling on research for Disney’s Animal Kingdom throughout the African continent with three of my colleagues remains extremely high on the list. On the EPCOT project, I was on my steepest learning curve on what is ‘thematic design’ and I had the privilege of working beside some of the original Imagineers. I was working with an incredible group of professionals, with different talents, all working towards a similar goal of ‘let’s make this happen; let’s make it the best it can be!’ and I was encouraged to use all my talents without being put in one category.”

A favorite memory or story from her time with WDI:
“When the World Showcase three-dimensional model was completed and ready to be professionally photographed, Harper Goff looked at me and asked: ‘Tell me what is missing?’ I looked at the model and saw this beautifully executed three-dimensional mini World Showcase with its various pavilions of countries around the world, a beautiful lagoon with its rockwork borders and boat docks, boats on the lagoon, landscaping corresponding to the pavilions’ geographic locations, etc. Everything was painted to perfection. I answered: ‘This is beautiful! What could be missing?’ Harper addressed the whole team and said: ‘Bring me some salt!’ That moment made me feel confused. Was he superstitious? Was he going to shake a small saltshaker over his left shoulder for good luck? Harper took the saltshaker and carefully leaned over the model, reaching for the locations of the boats. He proceeded to create miniature wakes behind each boat, which gave them a sense of direction and motion. That day I learned that no matter how small a detail might seem, it should not be overlooked. Now we were ready for the photo shoot of the model. It was perfect.”

What is Erlandson’s favorite Disney Parks attraction?
“The first time I went to Disneyland Park I was in my early teens. We had immigrated from Brazil, and I was impressed by everything in the park. I still am. From those early years, I loved sailing over London in Peter Pan’s Flight, the speed of a ride in the Matterhorn Bobsleds, and the Submarine Voyage. Those three made a big impression on me. The Enchanted Tiki Room and Jungle Cruise were also new revelations to me, where I saw the eyes of my parents and grandparents reflect the joy of a small child. I was also fascinated by the PeopleMover, it was way ahead of its time. It created its own energy while propelling the small cars forward, something that could prove very useful today when we are trying to minimize carbon emissions worldwide. Since then, we (as a company) have developed so many new attractions and spearheaded some amazing technological developments, using these to create experiences of even more fantastic stories for our guests. It makes one proud to be part of the Disney team, while it is also quite humbling.”

Peggie Fariss – Executive, Creative Development

Fariss began her 50-year career at Disney as an attractions hostess on the Storybook Land Canal Boats. She was instrumental in the research for EPCOT’s Spaceship Earth and later became WDI’s liaison to corporate sponsors. Her experience representing Imagineering’s artistic vision led to her final assignment as the creative development executive for Disneyland Paris, where for five years she led a team that doubled in size from 25 to 50.

Favorite project she worked on:
“I’ve had the great good fortune of working on lots of favorite projects (EPCOT Conferences, Spaceship Earth, The Disney Gallery, corporate branding in the parks), but I have to say the most fulfilling project was leading the Disneyland Paris Imagineering team (Creative Design & Show Quality). It challenged me to draw upon all the Disney values I’d absorbed over my 45 years in the company up to that point. My five years in Paris went by so quickly. And they were the most challenging, fun, and fulfilling of my career. I lived in one of the world’s most amazing cities, I formed friendships for a lifetime, and I had the absolute privilege of working with so many talented, kind, and dedicated people. We accomplished so much together and for all that I am truly thankful.”

A favorite memory or story from her time with WDI:
“In 1987, as Show Producer for The Disney Gallery, I was tasked with interviewing legendary Disney artists and animators whose early Disneyland concept work would be featured in the opening exhibit ‘The Art of Disneyland.’ They’d worked directly with Walt Disney in the 1940s, ’50s and ’60s. Many were retired so I visited them in their homes. I’ve sat in Dorothea Redmond’s kitchen, in Marc & Alice Davis’s study amidst their impressive collection of New Guinea totems, and in Ken Anderson’s garden, listening as they recounted their stories of Walt and their fellow artists. For a kid who’d grown-up with Disney films and Disneyland, this was HEAVEN!”

What is Fariss’ favorite Disney Parks attraction?
“I love Ratatouille: The Adventure at Walt Disney Studios Park in Paris. A truly delightful mix of immersive fun with Remy and his friends.”

Paula Dinkel – Principal Lighting Designer

Dinkel came to Imagineering from academia and spent 30 years as a lighting designer for Disney Parks (Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney Studios Paris, Shanghai Disneyland); The Disney Stores; and other projects, including DisneyQuest and Club Disney.

Favorite project she worked on:
“Walt Disney Studios Park in Paris was my favorite project because I was privileged to lead the Show Lighting team. Most of the lighting designers had worked with me on previous projects like DisneyQuest and Club Disney. I was proud and pleased that I could offer them a new challenge that would be rewarding and exciting for them as well as for me.”

A favorite memory or story from her time with WDI:
“When I was working at Disneyland, I looked forward to sunset so I could go to Main Street to see the night lighting turn on. It always makes me happy to hear the guests exclaim, ‘The lights!’”

What is Dinkel’s favorite Disney Parks attraction?
“Pirates of the Caribbean at Disneyland is my sentimentally favorite attraction. My first ride was with my sweetheart at Grad Night 1967 when it first opened. From a design standpoint, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith at Walt Disney Studios Park in Paris was the most fun.”

Karen Connolly Armitage – Concept Designer

Connolly Armitage brought her background in theater performance and design to Imagineering in 1977; her first assignment was with Disney Legend Dorothea Redmond. She was instrumental in the overall design of Disney theme parks around the world, including attractions at EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Frontierland at Disneyland Paris, and Main Street at Hong Kong Disneyland.

Favorite project she worked on:
“Disneyland Paris’ Frontierland for many reasons. The responsibility, respect, and belief in my abilities that Jeff Burke and Dick Kline surrounded me with, partnered with the great Frontierland team with many women leads, pushed me and produced an accelerated growth and maturing as to who I was becoming as a collaborating partner and designer. My self-belief expanded and was validated. It was an incredible feeling.”

A favorite memory or story from her time with WDI:
“Pat Burke, returning from the Paris construction site one day, sauntered into my office chuckling while saying, ‘Karen, you are now revered and well-known on the Cowboy Cookout construction site!” (Me: ‘Good grief!’) He continued, ‘You know we have an Irish crew now! Well, I told them your middle name is Connolly and that your grandparents came from County Monaghan! And that you have a family link back to James Connolly, their Patriot Hero!’ (These facts are true!) ‘Well, we now have the hardest working, fastest, most expedient crew on the whole job site!’ I was later told Frontierland was one of the first lands to finish. Regardless, I have secretly loved remembering Pat Burke telling me this! Burke is also an Irish name!”

What is Connolly Armitage’s favorite Disney Parks attraction?
“Disneyland—Pirates of the Caribbean.”

Katie Olson – Principal Color Concept Designer

Olson originally wanted to be a cop, but her summer job in Imagineering’s Model Shop changed everything. She began as “the juniorest of juniors,” painting models, color boards, and anything else that needed a coat of paint—discovering a knack for color design that enabled her to lead many projects for color at WDI. She contributed to every Disney park during her 36-year career, including being on the opening teams for Tokyo Disneyland, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disneyland Paris, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Tokyo DisneySea, and Hong Kong Disneyland.

Favorite project you worked on:
“it’s a small world at Hong Kong Disneyland was a joy to work on for so many reasons. To be tasked to take one of the Disney classics and bring a fresh color look to our updated version was a challenge and an honor. I took inspiration whenever possible from Mary Blair’s original design for the New York World’s Fair of 1964 where the attraction was born, which was then brought to Disneyland after the Fair closed. I was asked to color design so many elements of that attraction, from all the sets, to all the props, and even to the glitter! I did the exterior facade too… whew!”

A favorite memory or story from her time with WDI:
“Let’s go build something called Tokyo Disneyland. Pick up your entire life and move to Japan in 1982… no language skills, no Internet or smart phone, no idea of where you are except—you’re not in Kansas anymore! Our very small group of Imagineers built one of the most beloved places on earth by our guests, and it still resonates so strongly today. Then on to Tokyo DisneySea several years later, and the adventure continued!”

What is Olson’s favorite Disney Parks attraction?
“Okay, what’s not to love about Radiator Springs Racers at Disney California Adventure?! Cars is just such a fabulous film by Pixar, and I am honored to say I was able to contribute to the color design of both the rock work and architecture of Cars Land, working with the Pixar team and our own art directors. BUT THE RIDE!!! WHEW HOO!!!!!!! Love it!!! Just wish it would go even faster around those buttes!”

Becky Bishop – Area Development Executive

Bishop is a landscape architect who began her career with Imagineering as an intern in 1982. Her first major project was Splash Mountain at Disneyland, and in her thirty-year career she was responsible for landscape and hardscape design and installation at every Disney theme park location.

Favorite project she worked on:
“Splash Mountain at Tokyo Disneyland, Expedition Everest at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and Storybook Land Canal Boats at Disneyland Paris.”

A favorite memory or story from her time with WDI:
“I found these cool ‘architecturally’ shaped Sycamore trees that had been trained into a cross between a whirly-gig and a space antenna. I planted them in a grid of five’s and seven’s. The next day we hung one of our colleague’s underwear on them!”

What is Bishop’s favorite Disney Parks attraction?
“I have to admit that walking through Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is truly the most innovative Area Development I think the company has ever done. My admiration and congratulations to the team!”

Pam Rank – Principal Show Lighting Designer

Rank transitioned to theme park design in 1987 following a career as a theater lighting designer and professor. In her new home at Imagineering, she designed lighting for attractions, shops, restaurants, exteriors, and landscaping. During her years at WDI, she oversaw the installation of projects at Disneyland, Walt Disney World, Tokyo DisneySea, and Hong Kong Disneyland.

Favorite project she worked on:
“Tokyo DisneySea Grand Opening—my first chance to design lighting for a whole land, and my first experience living abroad.”

A favorite memory or story from her time with WDI:
“Trying to look at the big picture before opening Mermaid Lagoon at Tokyo DisneySea. What did it need, and what did I need to do to bring it to life through lighting? I had to stick more than my toe into the water…”

What is Rank’s favorite Disney Parks attraction?
“Overseas: Adventure Isle Challenge Trails at Shanghai Disneyland. In the US: American Adventure at EPCOT.

Lynne Macer Rhodes – Producer

Macer Rhodes’s background in political science and public affairs, and her program management experience in the public sector, gave her Imagineering career a broad scope. From manager of research and planning to producer, she had a ringside seat as Imagineering developed theme parks around the world, including EPCOT, Tokyo Disneyland, Disneyland Paris, Walt Disney Studios Paris, and Disney California Adventure.

Favorite project she worked on:
“I most enjoyed working on Tokyo Disneyland because it included a complete immersion in Japanese culture.”

A favorite memory or story from her time with WDI:
“One of the most inspiring things about my time at Imagineering was the experiences provided by the talent development specialists. They kept up, alive and open, and stretched our minds. Also, working with luminaries in different fields felt like working on the edges of new development.”

What is Macer Rhodes’s favorite Disney Parks attraction?
“As a guest, I love the experience of the Soarin’ Around the World attraction at Disney California Adventure and EPCOT at Walt Disney World.” 

Kathy Rogers – Executive Show Producer

Rogers’s career began in the Disneyland parking lot, where she made $1.70 per hour. She became an attractions lead and then was tapped to work for Imagineering at Disneyland in 1983. Working first as a coordinator, she rose through the ranks to the producer level, retiring as executive show producer with attractions as diverse as Muppet*Vision 3D and Expedition Everest to her credit.

Favorite project you worked on:
“Jim Henson’s Muppet*Vision 3D: Working with Henson and his Muppets was so memorable. He was an incredible creative soul and human, and had a gentle way of making everyone on the team feel important and relevant to the creative process.”

A favorite memory or story from her time with WDI:
“I enjoyed getting a private tour of the White House by a young Secret Service gentleman after the WDI Team recorded President Obama for the 2009 update to the Hall of Presidents attraction at Magic Kingdom Park. He enjoyed sharing behind the scenes of the White House along with the humorous commentary by several of the WDI Team.”

What is Rogers’s favorite Disney Parks attraction?
“Pirates of the Caribbean.”

Julie Svendsen – Concept Show Designer

Svendsen’s father, Julius, was a Disney animator. He helped her land a job as an accounting clerk at WED Enterprises in 1970, as plans for Walt Disney World were in full swing. This glimpse fueled Julie’s ambition to become a professional artist; after several years of art school and a BFA, she returned to WDI to work on the design teams for New Fantasyland at Disneyland, EPCOT, Typhoon Lagoon, Blizzard Beach, Disneyland Paris, Disney California Adventure, The Disney Stores, and Shanghai Disneyland.

Favorite project she worked on:
“I can’t say that I had any favorite projects—they were all interesting in their own way. Each was a new variety of challenges and creativity which ran the gamut from coming up with concepts for different areas of the Walt Disney World water parks, Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach, to partnering with John Hench to sketch and create a montage of different Disneyland attractions for their appearance on bedspreads for the Disneyland Hotel.”

A favorite memory or story from her time with WDI:
“As a summer intern working in the WED Graphics Department, I had the extreme pleasure of having my very first paid assignment—designing the Crystal Palace poster—approved by John Hench. I was over the moon!”

What is Svendsen’s favorite Disney Parks attraction?
“Wow, that’s a tough one. I’d say it’s a tie between Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion, and the Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse. But, when I was a kid, I loved the Frontierland Mine Train attraction and the Tomorrowland Flying Saucers.”

Tori Atencio McCullough – Director, Interior Design

McCullough is another Imagineer with deep Disney roots; her father, X Atencio, was a legendary Disney artist and writer. McCullough spent her 40-year career at Imagineering in the interior design studio as both a designer and manager, and in those two roles worked on every Disney theme park.

Favorite project she worked on:
“It is impossible to pick a favorite, but I can pick a favorite two for similar reasons. First is EPCOT, because that was my first big project and I learned so much about theme park design from the best in the business. But equally close to my heart is Euro Disneyland (now called Disneyland Paris), because that was the first international park I worked on, and it was a new concept for a Magic Kingdom. We were designing completely new guest experiences. And of course, I got to live in Paris for three and a half years!”

A favorite memory or story from her time with WDI:
“My research trip to Norway was one of my fondest memories. I was able to share the experience with my husband (and fellow Imagineer) Mike, and we got to experience the most amazing things, in so many different cities. Time and again Mike would shake his head at the end of a busy day, and marvel at how this was a tour unlike any other!”

What is McCullough’s favorite Disney Parks attraction?
“I would have to say Pirates of the Caribbean at Disneyland for sentimental reasons. But Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure at Shanghai Disneyland is pretty darn spectacular as well!”

Some imagination, huh? Read all of the awe-inspiring stories from these Imagineers in Women of Walt Disney Imagineering, releasing March 15, 2022. And stay tuned to D23.com for more news on Disney Parks across the globe. Join in on the fun now by joining D23: The Official Disney Fan Club! The 2022 D23 Gold Member Collector Set is included as part of any 2022 D23 Gold membership.

Unbearably Cute Turning Red Concept Art

By Zach Johnson

This Friday, Disney and Pixar’s all-new original feature film Turning Red will introduce us to the confident, somewhat dorky Mei Lee (voice of Rosalie Chang). She’s got a close crew, proud parents... and a surprising secret. When Mei’s emotions get the better of her, she “poofs” into a giant red panda! As you’ll soon see, the film has a distinct aesthetic that draws on Academy Award®-winning director Domee Shi’s love of anime and early 2000s teen culture. “Domee is a new director with a new voice and a new style,” animation supervisor Aaron Hartline says. “It was exciting that she wanted to try something completely different in terms of animation style. She called it East meets West—where anime represents the East, and signature Pixar animation is West.”

Mission accomplished. “Since everything is seen through a 13-year-old’s lens,” the director says, “we imagined that Mei’s world would be very vibrant and very colorful.”

Stream Turning Red on Disney+

Before Turning Red debuts, enjoy some of the concept and visual development art:

Phone featuring the 2024 D23 Gold Member Card and surrounded by sparkles.

Access Your D23 Benefits Anytime, Anywhere
With the Disney D23 app, your membership card is just a few taps away. Access your benefits from your phone!

Access Your D23 Benefits Anytime, Anywhere
With the Disney D23 app, your membership card is just a few taps away. Access your benefits from your phone!

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

Where Disney Fans Belong
Enjoy access to exclusive screenings, special shopping events, immersive experiences, and unique merchandise.

JOIN TODAY

Quiz: Celebrating Women’s History Month—Which Inspiring Disney Heroine Are You?

By Victoria Hunt

Strong, vulnerable, and determined… Three words that just begin to describe the many female heroines in Disney’s roster.

There is no doubt that women rule the screen in both Disney classics and modern favorites; in fact, tenacious, warm-hearted female characters have graced our screens since Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs back in 1937.

To celebrate Women’s History Month, take our quiz below to find out which of these inspiring heroines—there were so many to choose from, but we’re including a sampling of favorites—you’re most like!

Who is your unwavering Disney companion?

What is your favorite Disney song?

How are you celebrating Women’s History Month?

What does self-care look like to you?

If you had a superpower, what would it be?

Celebrating Women’s History Month: Which Inspiring Disney Heroine Are You?
General Leia Organa

Just like General Leia, you are strong, resilient, and keep things in order. This princess-turned-military-leader used her power for good to become one of the most integral members guiding the battle against the First Order. You and Leia both refuse to let a little difficulty get in the way of what you believe in.
Pocahontas

When greedy colonizers attempted to hurt the people and land she loved, Pocahontas took it upon herself to not only protect her family and community, but to do it with patience, peace, and perseverance. You must be just like her when standing up for the things you believe in. People often underestimate you—like they did with Pocahontas—but you never let that slow you down or throw you off track. Keep fighting for the causes you care about most!
Mulan

When we think of strong Disney heroines, Mulan is top of mind. Like Mulan, you are willing to sacrifice yourself for your family and friends at all costs. You’re the first person to the rescue when a crisis breaks out, and everyone can count on you for strength in a time of need.
Gamora

Like Gamora in Guardians of the Galaxy, you are independent and strong-willed. You both have been through a lot of hardships in life, but you use those experiences to your advantage. People can sometimes think you’re being aloof; you just like to take your time to think before you speak. But don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone every now and then.
Mirabel

Mirabel is the new kid on the block, but she’s already captured the hearts of Disney fans around the globe. If you got Mirabel, you also might be a little timid at first—but you make up for it in your caring and positive attitude. You’re a bit different than those around you, but ultimately, that’s your superpower! And that uniqueness makes others feel included and loved...

Brilliant & Bad—A Detailed Look at the Oscar®-Nominated Costumes from Cruella

Disney’s Cruella revealed the unknown origins of our favorite puppy-stealing villainess, Cruella de Vil. From 1961 to 2021, Cruella has remained completely fashion obsessed—but Emma Stone’s portrayal of the style icon took haut couture to a whole new level, and garnered The Walt Disney Company Academy Award® nominations for Best Costume Design and Best Makeup and Hairstyling (that legendary hair takes hard work!). Take a peek behind the Dalmatian-spotted curtain at our gallery showcasing one of Cruella’s incredible gowns...

Stream Cruella on Disney+

Just Announced: New Comedy Series The Muppets Mayhem for Disney+

By The D23 Team

To paraphrase a certain gold-toothed keyboardist, this is some news of very heavy-duty proportions…

Today, Disney+ announced The Muppets Mayhem—a brand-new comedy series starring the world-famous Muppets—has been greenlit. The series will take audiences on a music-filled journey as, at long last, The Electric Mayhem Band records its first-ever album! Lilly Singh (A Little Late with Lilly Singh, Dollface) will play the (human) lead role of Nora, the junior A&R executive tasked with managing and wrangling the utter mayhem that is The Electric Mayhem Band.

After 45 years of rockin’ out, The Electric Mayhem goes on an epic musical journey to finally record their first studio album. With the help of driven young music exec Nora, the old-school Muppet band comes face to face with the current-day music scene as they try to finally go platinum.

The Muppets Mayhem includes Dr. Teeth on vocals and keyboards, Animal on drums, Floyd Pepper on vocals and bass, Janice on vocals and lead guitar, Zoot on saxophone, and Lips on trumpet.

The series was developed by Adam F. Goldberg, Bill Barretta, and Jeff Yorkes based on characters created by Jim Henson. It is written by Goldberg, Barretta, and Yorkes, and executive produced by Goldberg, Barretta, Michael Bostick, and Kris Eber. Yorkes is a co-executive producer. The Muppets Studio’s David Lightbody and Leigh Slaughter are also executive producers.

“The Muppets are renowned for quality, creativity, and unrivaled, fun storytelling for the whole family,” said Ayo Davis, president, Disney Branded Television. “We are thrilled to have Adam, Bill, and Jeff at the helm to bring all of these iconic and great new characters to life in fresh and dynamic ways.”

Commented Jonnie Davis, President, ABC Signature, “Adam F. Goldberg is our resident Muppet enthusiast at Signature and getting to play in the sandbox with Bill, a longtime Muppet performer, as well as these beloved characters was a dream come true for him, Bill, and Jeff. Their take is fresh, fun, musical, and of course, hilarious. We couldn’t be happier to be the studio that is helping them get the band back together.”

“We are so excited to bring the story of The Electric Mayhem Band to the front and center of this new series,” added David Lightbody, executive producer and senior vice president of Disney Live Entertainment and The Muppets Studio. “They’ve been entertaining audiences since The Muppet Show, which debuted 45 years ago, so it’s wonderful that these characters are finally getting to play lead rather than supporting roles.”

The Muppets are hot off the critically acclaimed Muppets Haunted Mansion, the first-ever Muppets Halloween special and the first special from The Muppets Studio for Disney+. They also star in an original short-form series Muppets Now, available on the streaming service.

The Muppets Mayhem is a Disney Branded Television series produced by ABC Signature and The Muppets Studio.

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Week

By Andie Hagemann

Several exciting premieres are coming to your TV and assorted streaming devices this week! Step into the O.R. for a new episode of The Good Doctor, airing Monday, with guest star AJ Michalka. The Coterie Crew returns for the season four premiere of Good Trouble on Wednesday. Then, on Friday, Raven is back in San Francisco to help her father in the season five debut of Raven’s Home; that same day, don’t miss the launch of Disney and Pixar’s animated feature film Turning Red. Plus, learn how the heartwarming tale was brought to the screen in the documentary Embrace the Panda: Making of Turning Red later that evening.

The Good Doctor—Monday, March 7, at 10:01 p.m. ET, on ABC
Andrews (Hill Harper) enlists Shaun (Freddie Highmore) and Allen (Bria Samoné Henderson) to help perform a risky surgery to restore the voice of a famous pop star—portrayed by special guest star AJ Michalka. Meanwhile, Reznick (Fiona Gubelmann) and Park (Will Yun Lee) treat a man whose teenage son, Cody (Mathew Horner), is confined to a wheelchair due to complications related to Kabuki Syndrome.

Good Trouble—Wednesday, March 9, at 10 p.m. ET, on Freeform
The Coterie Crew is back… and they’re dealing with the fallout of the season three finale. The long-awaited verdict is in for the trial of Tommy Sung (Kevin David Lin), and Callie (Maia Mitchell) needs to keep Kathleen (Constance Zimmer) from getting in legal trouble. Meanwhile, Malika (Zuri Adele) processes the surprise return of Isaac (Sarunas J. Jackson); Gael (Tommy Martinez) tries to keep Isabella (Priscilla Quintana) in town; and Mariana (Cierra Ramirez) meets with Evan (T.J. Linnard). Plus, a new resident moves into The Coterie.

Raven’s Home—Friday, March 11, at 8 p.m. ET, on Disney Channel
Raven and her zany family are back for season five! When Raven’s father, Victor (Rondell Sheridan), has a health scare, Raven (Raven-Symoné) and Booker (Isaac Ryan Brown) bolt to San Francisco to come to his aid. Of course, hilarious hijinks ensues when Booker fails at babysitting his cousin and must fix things before his mom finds out.

Turning Red—Friday, March 11, on Disney+
Adolescence is a beast! Disney and Pixar’s newest feature film makes its big debut on the streamer. Mei Lee (voice of Rosalie Chiang) is a confident, dorky 13-year-old torn between being a perfect daughter and the chaos of adolescence. Her protective, if sometimes overbearing mother, Ming (voice of Sandra Oh), is never far behind—an unfortunate reality for the teenager. And as if changes to her interests, relationships, and body weren’t enough, whenever she gets too excited, she transforms into a giant red panda!

​​Embrace the Panda: Making Turning Red—Friday, March 11, on Disney+
After watching Disney and Pixar’s Turning Red, catch this exclusive feature documentary about the all-women team at the helm of the new film. Academy Award®-winning director Domee Shi and her team grant viewers behind-the-scenes access to the creative journey that brought this relatable, hilarious, and heartfelt story to the screen.

 

Disney Alum Shine in Top Acting Categories at the Oscars®

By Tori Hunt

It’s award season in Hollywood and the Oscars® are just around the corner. While we prepare our best formal attire and popcorn to view the ceremony, let’s reflect on how the nominees for Best Actor and Best Actress also just happen to have Disney roles on their resumes.

Will Smith – This fresh prince is no stranger to the Disney family. Smith participated in Disneyland’s 35th Anniversary (1990) and starred in Enemy of the State (1998) for Touchstone Pictures. For National Geographic on Disney+, he’s currently traveling the world from Pole to Pole. But perhaps his most memorable Disney role was that of Genie in the live-action Aladdin (2019).

Benedict Cumberbatch – Marvel fans must be ecstatic to see Cumberbatch in the running for Best Actor. The man behind Doctor Strange (2016)—with major roles in Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021) and Avengers: Endgame (2019)—has been a Disney fan favorite for years.

Jessica Chastain – Chastain earned her first Oscar nomination for playing Celia Foote in the 2011 hit movie The Help, but that isn’t the only time she’s worked with Disney. Her fiery red locks and fierce personality got her cast as Merida in the Disney Dream Portrait Series, where she can be seen straddling a horse with her bow and arrow. We will take a live action Brave anytime now!

Penélope Cruz – Cruz played Angelica in Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides (2011) and voiced Juarez the guinea pig in the hilarious 2009 movie G-Force. Like Chastain, Cruz was also the face of a Disney princess in the portrait series, portraying Belle from Beauty and the Beast.

Andrew Garfield – We know this might be a controversial opinion, but Garfield may be our favorite Spider-Man (don’t tell Tobey McGuire or Tom Holland). In the 2012 and 2014 Amazing Spider-Man films, Garfield took on the role of Peter Parker and won our hearts. He even made a special appearance in Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021), despite having handed the spidey suit over to Holland.

Denzel Washington – Oh, how we love him! Washington first made his appearance as a Disney actor when playing Herman Boone in the classic film Remember the Titans (2000).

Kristen Stewart – Yep! Even this Twilight star has a Disney connection. Back when Stewart was a young teen, she was featured in a small role in Disney’s The Thirteenth Year (2003).

Nicole Kidman – While the Oscar winner has yet to fill an iconic Disney-branded role, she did light up our screens as the mysterious Masha in Nine Perfect Strangers on Hulu (2021).

Javier Bardem – You may recognize Bardem from his bone-chilling role as Captain Salazar in Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales (2017). His undead character attempts to undermine Captain Jack Sparrow in this fan favorite.

Olivia Coleman – The English actress won her first Academy Award® for The Favourite, released by Fox Searchlight just before the studio joined the Disney family. She also voiced Donka in Ron’s Gone Wrong, now streaming on Disney+, and she has an as-yet undisclosed role in Marvel Studios’ upcoming Disney+ series Secret Invasion.

Quiz: Which Disney Animal Are You?

Disney and Pixar’s Turning Red is a coming-of-age story about Mei Lee, a confident, dorky 13-year-old girl who discovers that she “poofs” into a giant red panda every time she experiences a strong emotion. Like Mei, feelings can get the best of all of us sometimes! Whether you’re angry, excited, gleeful—or maybe even a little down in the dumps—this quiz will help you find out which Disney, or Disney and Pixar, animal you would transform into when you get in your feels…

You have no plans this weekend. What will you do with two days completely to yourself?

Your best friend is having a really bad day. What will you do to cheer them up?

Your favorite ice cream flavor of all time is:

When opening presents on your birthday, which gifts do you gravitate towards first?

Which is your favorite Disney song?

Which Disney Princess would you want to go on an adventure with?

What do you do when you have a difficult problem to solve?

How long do you take to get ready in the morning?

If you could have any of these superpowers, which would you choose?

Finally, which Disney animal is YOUR favorite?

Which Disney Animal Are You?
Hei Hei

Moana - HeiHei

Your muted demeanor is hilarious, but it can get you into sticky situations at times. Like Hei Hei, you enjoy zoning out and letting fate lead your way through life. You are a great friend to chill out with, but seriously—you do need to watch where you’re going!
Marie

The Aristocats - Marie

Just like Marie, you don’t start fights, but you can finish them! You think of yourself as a prim and proper person, but you can also be playful and mischievous. You love your family, friends, and going on adventures... all while looking stylish, too.
Rainbow Unicorn

Like the famous Rainbow Unicorn, you enjoy the finer things in life and know that you deserve the best. Maybe it’s your flashy appearance or your long list of credits at Dream Productions, but people can’t help but take note of your fabulousness!
Rex

Rex is a loyal friend, through and through. Just like you, he’s there when his friends need him, even if he is terrified of almost everything. Honest to a fault and always willing to lend a helping hand despite any anxiety, you and Rex make excellent adventure buddies!
Stitch

Lilo and Stitch - Stitch

You live life on the edge! Like Stitch, you are a lean, mean, destruction machine, but you also have a heart of gold. On the surface you leave most situations in chaos—but deep down you’re warm, snuggly, and would do anything for your friends. Remember: “Ohana” means “family”!
Heimlich

If there is one word to describe you and Heimlich, it’s “ravenous.” Nothing makes you happier than a yummy treat—and you love to spend time with friends at restaurants, cooking at home, or pretty much anywhere you can be simultaneously snacking. You need a lot of sustenance to become a beautiful butterfly!
Terk

Tarzan - Terk

Just like Terk, you are the life of the party! You love to have a good time, throw parties, and get down on the dance floor. You’ve probably given your friends stomach aches from laughing so hard at your hilarious jokes—and you always know what to say to make someone smile.
Scar

The Lion King - Scar

Cool, calculated, with a sleek sense of style. Just like Scar, no one intimidates you... and you intimidate everyone! You’re always one step ahead of the people around you, but you make world domination look easy with your calm, refined attitude. The world better be prepared for what you have in store.

Keep checking D23.com for more information on Disney and Pixar’s Turning Red. And the fun doesn’t end here—join D23 today to get the latest issue of Disney twenty-three, featuring exclusive coverage of Turning Red. Disney twenty-three is delivered directly to fans’ doorsteps and is offered exclusively to D23 Gold Members as a benefit of their membership. Stream Turning Red on Disney+, starting on March 11th.

Disney+ to Introduce an Ad-Supported Subscription Offering in Late 2022

The D23 Team

In a first for Disney’s premier direct-to-consumer streaming service, Disney+ will expand its offerings for consumers by introducing an ad-supported subscription in addition to its option without ads, beginning in the U.S. in late 2022, with plans to expand internationally in 2023.

“Expanding access to Disney+ to a broader audience at a lower price point is a win for everyone—consumers, advertisers, and our storytellers,” said Kareem Daniel, Chairman, Disney Media and Entertainment Distribution. “More consumers will be able to access our amazing content. Advertisers will be able to reach a wider audience, and our storytellers will be able to share their incredible work with more fans and families.”

Disney leads the market with quality and premium ad experiences. It is home to the industry’s premier ad-supported streaming services, including Hulu, a pioneer and leader among all ad-supported video-on-demand subscription services, and ESPN+, which continues to pave the way for direct-to-consumer sports programming and live events. This type of innovation, driven by advertising that is contextually relevant to viewers, will soon extend to Disney+.

“Since its launch, advertisers have been clamoring for the opportunity to be part of Disney+ and not just because there’s a growing demand for more streaming inventory,” said Rita Ferro, President, Advertising, Disney Media and Entertainment Distribution. “Disney+ with advertising will offer marketers the most premium environment in streaming with our most beloved brands: Disney, Pixar, Star Wars, Marvel, and National Geographic. I can’t wait to share more with advertisers at the Upfront.”

The ad-supported offering is viewed as a building block in the Company’s path to achieving its long-term target of 230 million–260 million Disney+ subscribers by FY24.

More details, including launch date and pricing, will be announced at a later date.

Dream Big with the New Better Nate Than Ever Trailer—Plus More in News Briefs

By Courtney Potter

Disney’s Better Nate Than Ever: New Trailer Unveiled

Ready to dream big? The good folks over at Disney+ recently released the trailer for Disney’s Better Nate Than Ever—a feel-good comedy adventure, complete with showstopping musical numbers, debuting exclusively on the streaming service in just a few weeks. Watch the clip, featuring two new original songs written for the film (“Big Time” and “#GoAWF”), above.

Based on the award-winning novel by Tim Federle (creator and executive producer of High School Musical: The Musical: The Series), Better Late Than Ever chronicles the exploits of 13-year-old Nate Foster (Rueby Wood). Nate’s got big Broadway dreams, only there’s one big problem—he can’t even land a part in his Pittsburgh middle school’s play! But when his parents leave town, Nate and his BFF Libby (Aria Brooks) sneak off to the Big Apple for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to prove everyone wrong. A chance encounter with Nate’s long-lost Aunt Heidi (Lisa Kudrow) turns his journey upside-down, and together they’ll learn that life’s greatest adventures are only as big as your dreams…

The film’s cast is rounded out by Joshua Bassett, Michelle Federer, and Norbert Leo Butz. Written for the screen and directed by Federle, Better Late Than Never debuts exclusively on Disney+ on Friday, April 1!

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

Settle in on the couch (or the streaming location of your choosing!) for another weekend of fabulous viewing fun from around the worlds of Disney. It’s an especially robust few days for animation fans—Coco on Disney Channel, Onward on Disney+, and more—and don’t miss a new episode of ABC’s The Rookie on Sunday. See what else to expect by clicking here.

Coming April 29: The First-Ever Disney Junior Fun Fest!

Calling all kids! The first-ever Disney Junior Fun Fest—a one-day event celebrating the entertaining and music-filled stories of the top preschool TV network’s hit series—will bring magic and merriment straight to fans on Friday, April 29, at Disney California Adventure park.

The event will include sneak peeks at upcoming Disney Junior series; special announcements; surprise appearances; a Doc McStuffins stage show highlighting 10 years of the beloved series; and even Alice’s Wonderland Bakery “Unbirthday Party,” complete with a hands-on cupcake decorating course inspired by the new Disney Junior series. (The class is also available for guests throughout Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival, from March 4–April 26.)

Disney Junior Fun Fest will kick off in the morning with a cavalcade of beloved Disney Junior characters welcoming fans and making their way through the park. Throughout the day, look for main stage attractions with fun games, trivia, and music to keep preschoolers and their families singing and dancing together. Guests can also enjoy regular Disney Junior programming at Disney California Adventure, including the Disney Junior Dance Party! and the Spidey and his Amazing Friends photo wall at the Hollywood Backlot.

Additional details, a schedule of events, and special appearances will be announced soon—so keep your eyes peeled!

Schedule, events, offerings, and appearances subject to restrictions and change or cancellation without notice, including but not limited to dates, times, and sessions. Both theme park admission and park reservation for the same park on the same date are required for park entry. Visit Disneyland.com for important information to know before visiting the Disneyland Resort, including updates on required face coverings.

Disneyland Resort’s Avengers Campus Honors Stan Lee

Also in Disney California Adventure, guests can now see a plaque honoring Disney Legend Stan Lee, and his incredible 100-year legacy, as they enter Avengers Campus.

Lee, whose legacy has inspired generations of fans to find their inner hero, was one of the most prolific and legendary comic creators of all time—so it’s fitting to honor him in Avengers Campus, a land dedicated to the next generation of Super Heroes.

The plaque, near the land’s entrance, reads: “We dedicate Avengers Campus to the incomparable Stan Lee. That person who helps others simply because it should or must be done, and because it is the right thing to do, is indeed without a doubt a real superhero. Thank you, Stan, for inspiring the hero within each of us. You have made us all True Believers.”

7 Marvel Live-Action Series Coming to Disney+ March 16

And speaking of Marvel: In just a few weeks, Disney+ will add more Marvel live-action series titles to its already fabulously expansive content offering in the U.S., Canada, U.K., Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand, including the addition of Daredevil, Jessica Jones, Luke Cage, Iron Fist, and more! See what else you can expect—including an update to Disney+’s Parental Controls—right here at D23.com.

Oscar Isaac Visits Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser

Earlier this week, Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser officially launched at Walt Disney World Resort—see D23’s robust related coverage here, here, and here!—and a very special someone recently helped celebrate the momentous occasion…

As seen in the clip above, courtesy our friends at the Disney Parks Blog, actor and producer Oscar Isaac—who plays Resistance hero Poe Dameron in the latest Star Wars film trilogy—visited the Halcyon starcruiser to tour the ship with Disney Imagineer Scott Trowbridge and try out some of the exciting onboard activities.

For more information on this first-of-its-kind immersive experience, be sure to visit starwarsgalacticstarcruiser.com.

ICYMI: Everything to Eat and Do at the 2022 EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival

If you’re heading to Walt Disney World Resort now through July 4 (whether that’s for a sojourn on the Halcyon starcruiser or not), do make sure to check out our comprehensive guide to everything you can eat, see, and do at the consistently colorful and delightfully delicious 2022 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. It’s sure to be a delight to the senses!