5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Weekend

December 23, 2021December 23, 2021

By Andie Hagemann

This weekend has plenty of entertainment options sure to satisfy the whole family—in between sweet treats, gift exchanging, and all that holiday fun! Gather ‘round for a viewing of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Encanto, premiering on Disney+ this Friday. That same night, National Geographic’s Lost Tombs of the Pyramids also debuts on the streaming service. Christmas Day is chock-full of content, beginning with the annual Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade on ABC, followed by a marathon of fierce NBA matchups on ABC and ESPN. And celebrate the final day of 25 Days of Christmas by watching Arthur Christmas on Freeform.

Encanto—Friday, December 24, on Disney+
The Madrigals are an extraordinary family who live hidden among the mountains of Colombia in a charmed place called an Encanto. The magic of the Encanto has blessed every child in the family with a unique gift—every child except Mirabel (voiced by Stephanie Beatriz), that is. However, she may be the Madrigals’ last hope when she discovers that the enchantment surrounding the Encanto is now in danger. The voice cast also includes María Cecilia Botero as Mirabel’s grandmother, Abuela Alma; Angie Cepeda and Wilmer Valderrama as Mirabel’s parents, Julieta and Agustín; and Diane Guererro and Jessica Darrow as Mirabel’s sisters, Isabela and Luisa.

Lost Tombs of the Pyramids—Friday, December 24, on Disney+
Break out the excavation tools to prepare for this National Geographic special set to unearth some astonishing revelations. Watch as an elite team of archaeologists excavate a new site in the shadow of the pyramids. Can they finally solve the ancient mystery of the lost pharaohs?

Arthur Christmas—Saturday, December 25, at 7 a.m. ET on Freeform
Ring in Christmas Day with an animated holiday classic. Santa Claus delivers presents to every last child on Earth thanks to a very high-tech operation beneath the North Pole. But when Santa misses one child out of hundreds of millions, someone has to save the day. It’s up to Arthur (James McAvoy), Santa’s younger son, to deliver a present to the forgotten child before Christmas morning.

Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade—Saturday, December 25, at 10 a.m. ET on ABC
Derek Hough and Julianne Hough return to host the Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade from Walt Disney World Resort, while Trevor Jackson (grown-ish) and Sherry Cola (Good Trouble) join in the merriment hosting from Disneyland Resort. Don’t miss exclusive performances and unique Disney Parks sneak peeks.

NBA Christmas—Saturday, December 25, at 10 a.m. ET on ABC
The NBA Christmas Day tradition is back for its 20th consecutive season! Five NBA games will tip-off throughout the day, airing across ABC, ESPN, and the ESPN app. The primetime game is a West vs. East matchup as the Los Angeles Lakers take on the Brooklyn Nets at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and ESPN. Will it be a prelude to the NBA Finals? Don’t miss the rest of the NBA slate, including Knicks vs. Hawks, at 12 p.m. ET (ESPN); Bucks vs. Celtics, at 2:30 p.m. ET (ABC); Suns vs. Warriors, at 5 p.m. ET (ABC); and Mavericks vs. Jazz, at 10:30 p.m. ET (ESPN).

9 Cozy Disney+ Movies to Watch on a Cold Winter’s Night

December 21, 2021December 20, 2021

By Courtney Potter

Grab your favorite cuddly blanket and whip up a piping hot cup of cocoa (extra marshmallows, of course)… it’s time to get cozy with Disney+! As the holidays quickly approach and wintry weather continues to sweep in, there’s no better time to gather the family (both related and chosen) and enjoy all manner of favorites available on the streaming service.

D23’s crack team of elves took a lil’ break from our Season of Magic to pull together a list of Disney movies (and a series of animated shorts, for good measure) sure to warm the cockles of your heart. Keep this list handy for your next snow day!

The Muppet Christmas Carol
No inventory of “cozy Disney movies” is complete without the Muppets’ 1992 take on the classic Charles Dickens tale. Gonzo the Great narrates as Mr. Dickens himself in a faithful adaptation of miserly Ebenezer Scrooge’s (Michael Caine) tale of redemption. A fantastic soundtrack, with songs by The Muppet Movie’s Paul Williams, and memorable performances by humans and Muppets alike make this a warm holiday staple. (And who says you can’t watch a holiday movie after the holidays?)

Lady and the Tramp (1955)
In this animated classic, Lady, a cocker spaniel from a respectable home, falls in love with Tramp, a mutt who lives in the railroad yards. After several memorable outings together (including that iconic moonlit spaghetti dinner), the pair’s relationship is strained not only by Lady’s devotion to her human family, but by Tramp’s irresponsible behavior… which gets Lady thrown in the pound! Don’t worry, though—all’s well that ends well for this lovable pair.

Christopher Robin
Christopher Robin (Ewan McGregor)—the young boy who enjoyed countless adventures in the Hundred Acre Wood with his lovable stuffed-animal friends—is all grown up in this 2018 film and stuck in a job where he is overworked, underpaid, and facing an unpredictable future. With a family of his own to provide for, his work has become his life. But when he’s reunited with Winnie the Pooh, now tattered and soiled from years of hugs and play, a spark is rekindled; after shenanigans involving Christopher’s briefcase, Pooh and the rest of the gang find themselves stepping out of the wood and into London to save the day… because best friends will always be there for you.

Finding Nemo
There’s nothing warmer than a heartfelt story about family, right? Disney and Pixar’s 2003 hit follows Nemo (voiced by Alexander Gould), a 6-year-old clownfish who’s stolen away from the safety of his undersea home at the Great Barrier Reef and taken to a dentist’s office fish tank overlooking Sydney harbor. His timid father Marlin (voiced by Albert Brooks) launches a search to find and rescue him, accompanied by a forgetful good Samaritan: a Regal Blue Tang fish named Dory (voiced by Ellen DeGeneres). Adventure and cozy feelings ensue.

Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas
Another holiday-adjacent film on our list is this 1999 production comprised of three festive animated tales tied together by narration from actor Kelsey Grammer. In Donald Duck: Stuck on Christmas, Huey, Dewey, and Louie wish upon a star for it to be Christmas every day, only to learn that it’s possible to have too much of a good thing. Max questions Santa’s existence in A Very Goofy Christmas, and Goofy goes to great lengths to prove to his son that St. Nick is real. Finally, Mickey and Minnie’s Gift of the Magi brings a magical spin to an iconic holiday tale, as Mickey struggles to buy Minnie a watch chain while she’s saving to give Mickey a harmonica case… but the ultimate gift they both give and receive proves to be the best gift of all: love.

Pete’s Dragon (1977)
If you’ve never seen this one—or haven’t in a while—do yourselves a favor and check it out. The colorful musical comedy follows a magical (and occasionally mischievous) dragon named Elliott, who inadvertently causes chaos and confusion in Passamaquoddy, a quaint Maine fishing village. Hoping to help a young orphan, Pete (Sean Marshall), break away from his evil foster parents and find a happy home with kindly Nora (Helen Reddy) and her father Lampie (Mickey Rooney) in their lighthouse, Elliott must avoid the clutches of the greedy Dr. Terminus (Jim Dale), who only wants to exploit him.

Mary Poppins Returns
Featuring incredible, Oscar^®-nominated music from Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, and based on P.L. Travers’ stories, 2018’s Mary Poppins Returns stars Emily Blunt as the titular nanny, returning to the Banks household to help the family—grown-up son Michael (Ben Whishaw) and his own three children—find joy in their lives once again. She’s ably assisted this time ’round by friendly lamplighter Jack (Lin-Manuel Miranda). The warmhearted film also features memorable turns by Disney Legends Dick Van Dyke and Angela Lansbury.

Moana
If you’re looking for cozy warmth, you can’t go wrong with an animated film set in the beautiful, balmy islands of Oceania. Adventurous teenager Moana (voiced by Auli’i Cravalho) sails out on a daring mission to save her people. During her journey, she meets the once-mighty demigod Maui (voiced by Dwayne Johnson), who guides her in her quest to become a master wayfinder. Together, they sail across the open ocean, encountering enormous monsters and impossible odds… and along the way, Moana fulfills the ancient quest of her ancestors and discovers the one thing she has always sought: her own identity.

Olaf Presents
Okay—we know this one isn’t exactly a movie, but it will most definitely bring on some warm and fuzzy feelings. In this series of animated shorts released just a few months ago, Frozen’s Olaf steps into the spotlight as he acts as producer, performer, costumer, and set builder for colorful retellings of five beloved Disney tales. The charismatic snow(show)man takes on several iconic roles (including a mermaid, a genie, a lion king, and so many more) as he entertains Arendelle with delightful, abbreviated versions of these classic stories. Josh Gad once again lends his voice to Olaf, with Disney animator Hyrum Osmond (Moana, At Home With Olaf) directing.

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Week

December 20, 2021

By Andie Hagemann

It’s season finale week for two fan-favorite shows with shocking endings. Has Michelle found her Prince Charming or will she not hand out her final rose? Watch as her journey as The Bachelorette concludes Tuesday on ABC. Marvel Studios’ Hawkeye is set to reveal the man at the top to Clint Barton and Kate Bishop as the archers encounter their biggest threat yet. Plus, enjoy plenty of holiday content and a new animated show on Hulu!

The Bachelorette—Tuesday, December 21, at 8 p.m. ET on ABC
Who will receive the final rose? Michelle Young’s journey as The Bachelorette is coming to an end. In the season finale, Michelle must choose between Brandon and Nayte, but first, her parents and sister join her in Mexico to get to know the men. After the men meet her family, they have one chance to impress Michelle on their final one-on-one date. Has Michelle found the man of her dreams—and will he propose? Watch the shocking conclusion followed by After the Final Rose, hosted by Tayshia Adams and Kaitlyn Bristowe, at 10 p.m. ET on ABC.

Hawkeye—Wednesday, December 22, on Disney+
The Marvel Cinematic Universe is about to get bigger. In the season finale, Clint Barton (Jeremy Renner) and Kate Bishop (Hailee Steinfeld) meet the man at the top—the one Clint had been worried about all along. After run-ins with Maya Lopez (Alaqua Cox) and Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh), the archers are about to face their biggest threat yet—and we do mean biggest! One question remains: Will Clint make it home for Christmas?!

Dragons: The Nine Realms—Thursday, December 23, on Hulu
Set 1,300 years after the events of How to Train Your Dragon, dragons are now just a legend to the modern world. After a geological anomaly opens a fissure in the Earth’s surface, scientists gather to study the mysterious phenomenon. Brought to the site by their parents, kids uncover the truth about dragons and where they’ve been hiding in this Hulu Original series premiere. The animated series has an all-star voice cast including Julia Stiles (Olivia Kullersen), Jeremy Shada (Tom Kullersen), D’Arcy Carden (Linda), and Ashley Liao (Jun Wong), to name a few.

Olaf’s Frozen Adventure—Friday, December 24, at 8 p.m. ET on ABC
Olaf (voiced by Josh Gad) and his new pals are celebrating the holidays for the first time in forever. But after the Kingdom of Arendelle empties for the season, Elsa (voiced by Idina Menzel) and Anna (voiced by Kristen Bell) realize they have no family holiday traditions to partake in of their own. Determined to save Christmas, Olaf sets out on an adventure to collect the best and most merry traditions to bring back for his friends.

Prep & Landing—Friday, December 24, at 9 p.m. ET on ABC
A high-tech team of elves from an elite unit known as Prep and Landing ensures homes around the world are prepared for Santa’s visit. But an elf named Wayne (voiced by Dave Foley) is upset when he doesn’t receive a promotion in favor of his former partner and he is paired with the rookie, Lanny (voiced by Derek Richardson). Wayne and Lanny are presented with challenges during their mission that push them to their limits and threaten Christmas for children everywhere. Make it a double feature and watch Disney Prep & Landing 2: Naughty vs. Nice at 9:30 p.m. ET on ABC.

Binge These Marvel Podcast Episodes

December 20, 2021May 5, 2022

By the D23 Team

It’s the holidays, meaning you have some time on your hands. Whether you’re in transit or waiting to enjoy a festive meal, we have the perfect way to fill your time: listening to the best D23 Inside Disney podcast episodes!

Today we suggest some of the super episodes of the past year, chatting with Marvel Studios’ most engaging talent—both in front of and behind the scenes. And, of course, you can subscribe to the pod wherever you like to stream, so you never miss an episode!

Kevin Feige
The mastermind of the Marvel Cinematic Universe sits down to answer every question we could think of. He details the “multiverse meeting” he had and talks about the futures of many of our favorite MCU characters (Agatha?). Plus, he addresses some D23 Easter eggs.

Elizabeth Olsen
WandaVision’s wonderful witch shares stories about a hilarious on-set moment with Kathryn Hahn that will never see the light of day, creating the dazzling series, and a “23” Easter egg.

Angelina Jolie and Kumail Nanjiani
This eternally extraordinary duo talk about creating the epic Eternals, what happened to Kingo at the end of the film, and some trouble Angelina got into a while back at Disneyland.

Simu Liu and Awkwafina
This pair of podcasts (one came out before Shang-Chi and The Legend of The Ten Rings was released, one after) dive deep into the making of this amazing movie. Plus, Simu reveals that one moment of filming reminded him of a Disney parks attraction, and Awkwafina talks about voicing Sisu in Raya and the Last Dragon and Flounder in the upcoming live-action film The Little Mermaid.

Paul Bettany
In advance of the premiere, the man who put the Vision in WandaVision reveals everything (he could) about the show, his Star Wars connection, and his favorite Marvel film.

Anthony Mackie
The Falcon himself (before he officially became the new Captain America) chats with us about The Falcon and The Winter Soldier, performing the Candlelight Processional at EPCOT, and the biggest Marvel secret he had to keep.

Kari Skogland
The Falcon and The Winter Soldier director breaks down all the new characters and crazy plot twists of the incredible Disney+ series.

Tom Hiddleston
We weren’t low-key (get it?) when we sat down with Loki himself to discuss the twists and turns of his Disney+ series—and a fated encounter he had with Miss Piggy many years ago.

Hailee Steinfeld
Check out what the newest Super Hero on the block has to say about Hawkeye, giggling with Jeremy Renner, and childhood visits to the Happiest Place on Earth.

Oscar Isaac and May Calamawy
Moon Knight stars Oscar Isaac and May Calamawy give share details about getting a body scan, visiting Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser, Steven’s accent, and who’s “in control” of the body now.

Destination D23–50 Years of Bringing Home the Magic

December 17, 2021December 20, 2021

For 50 years guests have been visiting the “Vacation Kingdom of the World,” making memories to last a lifetime. With the Walt Disney Archives being founded in 1970, the year before Walt Disney World Resort opened, founder and Disney Legend Dave Smith knew how significant the opening of the resort would be for the Company and thoroughly captured the momentous occasion with everything from tickets and maps to advertising ephemera and menus, and, of course… merchandise!

Walt Disney World merchandise has always been more than just something to be purchased—it’s a tangible reminder of specific memories tied to “The Most Magical Place on Earth.” This chronological exhibition provides a glimpse into Walt Disney World Resort past and present through several merchandise memories that bring the magic home with us. While it’s impossible for the Archives to have saved every piece of resort merchandise created, the goal has always been to have a sampling of key objects to exemplify a given point in time. These exhibit displays represent some of the most iconic and collectible pieces from over the years, showcasing the trends of the times and key celebrations, all set to evocative shopping-bag-graphic backdrops of the decade.

We hope you enjoy this walk down memory lane with Walt Disney Archives Presents: 50 Years of Bringing Home the Magic.

1970s
Even before the Walt Disney World Resort opened, curious fans began purchasing select merchandise in January 1970 with the opening of the Walt Disney World Preview Center. Some of the most popular “before park opening” products included the first souvenir guidebook, various groovy hats like Donald Duck with a squeaking bill, and extra-long pencils with character toppers.

Walt Disney World 1970s merchandise including pencils, toppers and mugs

Walt Disney World 1970s bobble-heads and Orange Bird bank

Walt Disney World 1970s merchandise including Donald Duck squeaking bill hat

1980s
The 1980s brought the opening of two new tubular theme parks to Walt Disney World Resort, EPCOT Center (currently known as EPCOT) in 1982 and the Disney-MGM Studios Theme Park (currently known as Disney’s Hollywood Studios) in 1989. Upon opening, the wide range of newly created characters and logos for EPCOT made for some of the most unique Disney merchandise ever created and remain fan favorites to this day.

Walt Disney World 1980s merchandise including Figment

Walt Disney World 1980s merchandise including Kitchen Kaberet plush

1990s
From figurines to fanny packs, many fly merchandise trends came out of the 1990s. Mix these with Walt Disney World 20th and 25th anniversary celebrations, and you get light-up visors and sparkling snow globes. The opening of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park in 1998 brought a new type of merchandise into the Disney world, focusing on nature and the park’s icon, the Tree of Life.

Walt Disney World 1990s merchandise including various Mickey Mouse Ears hats

Walt Disney World 1990s merchandise including Anniversary and Animal Kingdom merchandise

2000s & 2010s
As time progresses and technology evolves, so, too, has Walt Disney World merchandise offerings —electric monorails race around tracks, interactive Mickey plush share fun facts about theme parks, and even park tickets are a fashion statement with the creation of MagicBands in 2013. The 2000s helped to further turn collecting merchandise into an activity with the introduction of Pin Trading during the Millennium Celebration and later continued with the Vinylmation craze. Classic Minnie Mouse ear headbands became more popular than ever with the start of color collections like Rose Gold and Millennium Pink, perfectly pairing with fan favorite spirit jerseys.

Walt Disney World 2000s merchandise including MagicBands

Walt Disney World 2000s merchandise including Vinylmation

50th Anniversary
The Walt Disney Archives collection is constantly growing; the celebrations of today are history captured for tomorrow. When it comes to significant anniversaries—like “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” for the resort’s 50th—saving examples of related merchandise is imperative for the future understanding of the resort’s past, serving as research for the Company to build from and nostalgia for audiences to look back on and enjoy.

Dream-Catching Machine
Originally used to collect sparks of imagination with Dreamfinder and his pal Figment, this Dream-Catching Machine was first seen when the EPCOT attraction Journey Into Imagination opened March 5, 1983. After the original incarnation of the attraction closed in 1998, it was moved to the shopping location Mouse Gear to delight Guests as a bit of “easter egg” set décor. The Dream-Catching Machine became one of the Walt Disney Archives’ newest acquisitions when it was removed for the shop’s re-imagining in 2020.

Walt Disney World Dream-Catching Machine

First Glimpse at Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur—Plus More in News Briefs

December 17, 2021December 16, 2021

By Courtney Potter

Disney Channel Debuts First Teaser Trailer for Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur

A sure-to-be-cool new animated series executive-produced by iconic actor Laurence Fishburne? Sign us up!

Check out the first look trailer for Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur, above. Based on Marvel’s hit comic books, the series follows the adventures of 13-year-old super-genius Lunella Lafayette and her 10-ton T-Rex, Devil Dinosaur. After Lunella accidentally brings Devil Dinosaur into present-day New York City via a time vortex, they work together to protect the city’s Lower East Side from danger.

The voice cast includes Diamond White as Lunella Lafayette (aka Moon Girl); Alfre Woodard as Lunella’s grandmother, Mimi; Libe Barer as Lunella’s best friend and manager, Casey; Sasheer Zamata as Lunella’s mom, Adria; Jermaine Fowler as Lunella’s dad, James Jr.; Fred Tatasciore as Devil Dinosaur; and Gary Anthony Williams as Lunella’s grandfather, Pops. Fishburne voices the recurring role of The Beyonder, a curious, mischievous trickster.

Look for Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur to premiere on Disney Channel in 2022.

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Weekend

As the days pass and we hurtle ever closer to the new year, there’s plenty of holiday (viewing) spirit to be had from around the worlds of Disney. Look for a Dickensian twist on a classic holiday episode of The Simpsons on Disney+, and continue a time-honored holiday tradition (or start fresh this year) by taking in The Sound of Music on ABC this Sunday. (The film has aired on ABC on a Sunday before Christmas since 2002!) And as usual, there’s more where that came from…

Disney Branded Television and Baobab Studios Announce The Witchverse

There’s an intriguing project just over the horizon from our pals at Disney Branded Television and nine-time Emmy^® Award-winning international animation studio Baobab Studios: The Witchverse, an all-new animated anthology series based on Baobab Studios’ acclaimed interactive experience Baba Yaga.

The now-in-development series will be a global celebration of the international cultural phenomena of witches, their magic, and their universal connection to nature. Each “witch-i-sode” will comically explore (and shift) common misconceptions surrounding worldwide witch mythology and lore, all from a wide mixture of cultures and perspectives.

Three-time Emmy Award-winning VR experience and animated short film Baba Yaga, which serves as inspiration for The Witchverse, is a contemporary portrayal of the Eastern European legend Baba Yaga—an enigmatic witch who uses her powers to stop villagers whose settlement encroaches upon her enchanted forest. The immersive experience (voiced by an all-female voice cast including Kate Winslet, Daisy Ridley, Jennifer Hudson, and Glenn Close) is brought to life with illustrative 2D pop-up animation, as well as hand-drawn and stop-motion styles, and explores themes of empowerment and environmentalism. Baba Yaga will serve as a starting point for episode one of the new series.

Stay tuned for more news on The Witchverse as it becomes available…

Thrilling New Trailer for 20th Century Studios’ The King’s Man

From Mata Hari to Rasputin, some of history’s notorious criminal masterminds are revealed in the final trailer for 20th Century Studios’ The King’s Man, above. Audiences will meet them all when the film debuts in theaters in just a few days!

Set during the World War I era, The King’s Man follows the origins of the first independent intelligence agency as it thwarts the villainous group from starting a war… and one man is forced to race against time to stop them. The film stars Ralph Fiennes, Gemma Arterton, Rhys Ifans, Matthew Goode, Tom Hollander, Harris Dickinson, and Daniel Brühl, with Dijimon Hounsou and Charles Dance.

The King’s Man—based on the comic book The Secret Service by Mark Millar and Dave Gibbons, and directed by Matthew Vaughn—premieres in U.S. theaters on December 22.

**Wilmer Valderrama Developing Reimagined Zorro Series**

More news from the good folks over at Disney Branded Television… They’ve joined forces with actor Wilmer Valderrama (recently heard in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Encanto) to develop a reinvention of the iconic Disney action-adventure-western series Zorro, with Valderrama executive producing and starring as Don Diego de la Vega and his dashing swashbuckling alter ego, the masked horseman named Zorro.

“Growing up, Zorro was the one character that made me, as a Latino, feel like I could be a hero,” Valderrama recently said. “As an adult and a storyteller, I have a responsibility in the stories that I help bring to life. To partner with Disney to bring Zorro back into the family after 60 years—and be a part of the legacy for other children to know they too can be the heroes of their own stories—is a dream come true.”

Set in early California, the Zorro television series followed a masked avenger, the alter ego of the mild-mannered de la Vega, as he defended the poor and acted as the bane of military oppressors on his black stallion, Tornado. Zorro’s trademark was the ragged “Z” symbol, which he slashed with his sword. A total of 78 original episodes aired from 1957 through 1959; four hour-long episodes were later filmed for airing on Walt Disney’s Sunday night television show, and episodes of the half-hour show were compiled into the theatrical features The Sign of Zorro and Zorro the Avenger.

Works From the Worlds of Disney Added to National Film Registry

It’s a prestigious honor, and it means that film lovers will delight in these works for generations to come… Recently, the Library of Congress inducted three films from The Walt Disney Company’s history—Flowers and Trees; Star Wars: Return of the Jedi; and WALL-E—into its National Film Registry. Each of the films was selected for its cultural, historic, or aesthetic importance to preserve the United States’ film heritage. Find out more right here at D23.com.

Get Ready to Meet the Mayhems

Keep your eyes peeled in 2022 for a new series from Disney Branded Television, which just kicked off production in Los Angeles!

Meet the Mayhems is an original live-action comedy series about a family of colorful supervillains who recently ran afoul of the League of Villains and now must somehow beat a path to normalcy in a small Texas town. The series is scheduled to premiere in summer 2022 on Disney Channel and Disney+ platforms around the world.

At the center of the story is teenage Havoc (Isabella Pappas), who stands up against the leader of all villains, forcing her entire family to change their identities and relocate to a Texas suburb where she now goes by the name Amy. With the help of her effervescent new neighbor Hartley (newcomer Kayden Muller-Janssen), she must somehow hide her superpowers and quell her villainous nature in favor of something she’s fought against all her life—being normal. The series also stars Lucy Davis as Eva/Surge, James Patrick Stuart as Vic/Kraniac, Malachi Barton as Colby/Flashform, and Reed Horstmann as Jake/Chaos, with Patricia Belcher recurring as Celia.

Meet the Mayhems was created by Chris Peterson and Bryan Moore, who are also its executive producers and showrunners.

**ICYMI: Inside Walt’s Disneyland, an Immersive Guide to the Park Walt Helped Create**

Marcy Carriker Smothers set out to write a book with the goal of allowing guests to walk around Disneyland identifying the attractions and landmarks Walt Disney himself championed—touching what he touched, and seeing the original Magic Kingdom through his eyes. Find out what went into researching Walt’s Disneyland in D23’s recent Q&A with the author by clicking here.

D23 Exclusive Alice in Wonderland by Mary Blair 70th Anniversary Plush — Alice and March Hare

December 17, 2021December 17, 2021

By the D23 Team

You’ll lose your head—proverbially speaking, of course—for D23’s exclusive Alice in Wonderland Plush modeled after pre-production art by Disney Legend Mary Blair. The December release includes the Alice and March Hare plush; these collectible, uniquely detailed plush toys commemorate the film’s 70th anniversary.

You’ll receive a Certificate of Authenticity along with each plush, which arrives in a collector’s display box complete with the D23 logo. They’ll be available for purchase beginning Friday, December 17th (starting at 7 a.m. PT), at shopDisney.com for ALL D23 Members.

Alice
It would be utter nonsense to miss out on our Alice plush, modeled after pre-production art for Alice in Wonderland by Disney Legend Mary Blair. You’ll be more than curious about this collectible, celebrating seven decades of magic and merriment.

Click here to purchase the Alice plush

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March Hare
You’ll be mad as a March Hare for this merry plush, modeled after pre-production art for Alice in Wonderlandby Disney Legend Mary Blair. There’s plenty of room at the table for this detailed plush toy… what better way to remember that most excellent of tea parties, featuring some truly unique guests?

Click here to purchase the March Hare plush

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Remember: Our D23 Exclusive Alice in Wonderland by Mary Blair 70th Anniversary Plush will be available for ALL D23 Members at shopDisney.com beginning Friday, December 17, at 7 a.m. PT! Don’t miss out!

About the Alice in Wonderland by Mary Blair Collection
Celebrate the 70th anniversary of Walt Disney’s Alice in Wonderland with this one-of-a-kind collection featuring the works of Disney Legend Mary Blair. Blair began drawing at Walt Disney Studios in 1940; a pioneer and leading female artist in her field, she was an imaginative color stylist, concept artist, and designer, and worked on some of Walt Disney’s most popular animated classics.

Her topsy-turvy, upside-down art style lent itself masterfully to the film Alice in Wonderland (1951). Create your own wonderland with this distinctive collection of items!

Plush Details:

Limited Release
Certificate of Authenticity
Styled after Mary Blair’s archival inspirational art for Walt Disney’s Alice in Wonderland
Detailed plush sculpting
Embroidered features
Varied fabrics
Soft fill
Comes in collector’s storybook display box with D23 logo and twin keyhole cover
The Disney Legend’s inspirational pre-production work helped set the visual tone for the ‘51 animated feature; Blair received co-credit for ”Color and Styling” on the film
Part of the Alice in Wonderland by Mary Blair Collection

The bare necessities:

Polyester
Alice: 10” H
March Hare: 9 1/2” H
Imported

And don’t miss the Cheshire Cat & Mad Hatter plush HERE!

And the Queen of Hearts and Tweedle Dee & Tweedle Dum HERE!

To purchase, log in to shopDisney with the Disney account tied to your D23 Membership.

Not a D23 Member? Click here to join.

* Plush available only to D23 Members. Available for purchase starting December 17, 2021, while supplies last at shopDisney.com (online or via phone orders). Not valid on purchases made at Disney store and Disney Baby Store retail and outlet locations or Disney Parks and Resorts locations or on Disney store merchandise purchased from other retailers or using third party websites. Must be logged in to your Disney Account to purchase, using an account linked to your D23 Membership. Maximum one of each plush per D23 membership. Items not eligible for any additional promotional discounts or offers except available shipping offers. Offer subject to restrictions and to change without notice. Void where prohibited.

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Weekend

December 16, 2021December 16, 2021

By Andie Hagemann

The holiday season is upon and there’s plenty of festive content sure to make you feel merry and bright. Enjoy the films Love Actually and Disney’s A Christmas Carol, or a holiday-themed episode of The Simpsons with A Christmas Carol twist, all airing on Freeform. Or, watch Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas, available to stream on Disney+. Are you in the mood to sing about your favorite things? Watch The Sound of Music airing Sunday evening on ABC.

The Simpsons—Friday, December 17, at 12 a.m. ET on Freeform
Dust off your holiday sweaters and watch a few of our favorite holiday episodes. Among them is “‘Tis the Fifteenth Season,” which features a Simpsons twist on a holiday classic. In this version of A Christmas Carol, Homer is inspired to become giving after coming into a large sum of money, which surprisingly prompts jealousy in his neighbor Flanders.

Love Actually—Friday, December 17, at 9 a.m. ET, on Freeform
Whether it’s the first viewing or thousandth, the 2003 Christmas-themed romantic comedy is sure to cue up the holiday cheer. Nine intertwined stories and an all-star cast including Hugh Grant, Laura Linney, Keira Knightley, Colin Firth, and more examine the complexities of love for the young and young at heart. Get your cue cards ready for the holiday classic.

Disney’s A Christmas Carol—Friday, December 17, at 11:55 p.m. ET, on Freeform
Keep the A Christmas Carol spirit going with the 2009 computer-animated movie, starring Jim Carrey as Ebenezer Scrooge and directed by Robert Zemeckis. Seven years after the passing of his business partner Jacob Marley (Gary Oldman), Scrooge refuses to participate in Christmas festivities, declining an invitation to his nephew’s home for Christmas Dinner. After reluctantly granting his loyal employee Bob Cratchit (Oldman) Christmas Day off, three ghosts take him on a journey that reveals long-buried truths. Scrooge must open his heart to undo years of ill will before it’s too late.

Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas—Saturday, December 19, at 12:20 a.m. ET on Freeform
What’s this? What’s this? Pumpkin King Jack Skellington (voiced by Chris Sarandon) stumbles upon Christmas Town and soon becomes obsessed with the unfamiliar holiday. Jack longs to spread the joy of Christmas with the residents of Halloween Town, but his mission puts Santa Claus (voiced by Ed Ivory) in peril in this stop-motion animated musical full of spooky holiday fun.

The Sound of Music—Sunday, December 19, at 7 p.m. ET, on ABC
Gather the family for a screening of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s musical inspired story The Sound of Music. The musical follows the story of Maria (Disney Legend Julie Andrews), who takes a job as a governess for the von Trapp family while she contemplates becoming a nun. She eventually falls in love with the children and later their widowed father Captain von Trapp (Christopher Plummer). After he refuses to accept a position with the Germany Navy, the family devises a plan to flee Austria.

Everything New You Can Stream on Disney+ in January 2022

December 16, 2021August 8, 2023

By Zach Johnson

What better way to ring in the New Year than with your favorite mutants? Disney+ just announced its listings for January 2022, which kicks off with the addition of X-Men: First Class to its library. The month will include a new episode of The Book of Boba Fett every Wednesday, in addition to a new batch of episode of The World According to Jeff Goldblum. Marvel Studios’ Eternals makes its streaming debut mid-month, followed by Assembled: The Making of Hawkeye. Other library additions for January include Betty White Goes Wild!, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days, Like Mike, The Sandlot, and Vets on the Beach (Seasons 1-2). The month closes out with the original movie The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild, which continues the hilarious escapades of the sub-zero heroes from the Ice Age franchise.

All the titles coming to Disney+ in January are listed below:

Saturday, January 1
X-Men: First Class

Wednesday, January 5
The Book of Boba Fett (Episode: “The Tribes of Tatooine”)
Miraculous Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir (Season 4, 7 Episodes)

Friday, January 7
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days
Fantastic Four
Like Mike
Like Mike 2
Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir (Season 4, Episodes 14-20)
Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian
Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb
Pop Goes the Vet with Dr. Joya
The Sandlot
X-Men Origins: Wolverine

Wednesday, January 12
The Book of Boba Fett (Episode: “The Streets of Mos Espa”)
Eternals

Friday, January 14
Betty White Goes Wild!
Catch That Kid

Wednesday, January 19
The Book of Boba Fett (Episode: “The Gathering Storm”)
Secrets of Sulphur Springs (Season 2)
Vets on the Beach (Seasons 1-2)
The World According to Jeff Goldblum (Season 2, Episode 6-10)

Friday, January 21
Marvel One-Shot: Team Thor: Part 1
Marvel One-Shot: Team Thor: Part 2
Marvel One-Shot: Team Darryl
Marvel One-Shot: The Consultant
Marvel One-Shot: Agent Carter

Wednesday, January 26
The Book of Boba Fett (Episode: “Chapter 5”)
Random Rings (Seasons 1-2)

Friday, January 28
The Book of Manning
Called to the Wild (Season 1)
Deion’s Double Play
Dr. Oakley, Yukon Vet (Season 10, Episodes 6-12)
Four Falls of Buffalo
The Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild (Premiere)
Insania (Season 1)

Downloadable: D23 Season of Magic Zoom Backgrounds

December 16, 2021

By the D23 Team

Visiting with pals over video chat just got a lot more magical… Download these enchanting D23 Season of Magic Zoom backgrounds to add some merriment the next time you sign on. Spend some holiday time with Mickey and Minnie, Princess Tiana and Louis the Alligator, and Goofy and Max!

Visit Zoom Support for the latest step-by-step guide on how to bring this festive fun to your backgrounds.