5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Week

August 16, 2021

By Zach Johnson

It’s never too late to find love, as Bachelor in Paradise aims to prove Monday on ABC. Wednesday is a busy day, as Disney+ will debut the 10-episode second season of the scripted original series Diary of a Future President and premiere a new original series, Growing Up Animal, from National Geographic. A new episode of Good Trouble airs on Freeform, while Hulu’s Nine Perfect Strangers welcomes viewers to Tranquillum House.

Bachelor in Paradise—Monday, August 16, at 8 p.m. ET on ABC
It’s time to return to Bachelor Nation’s favorite beach as a new group of singles heads to paradise hoping for a second—or third—chance at love. Former fan-favorite bachelors and bachelorettes are ready to find their match while living together in a tropical resort in Mexico. Returning bartender Wells Adams adds master of rose ceremonies to his duties, and he will be joined by a rotating roster of celebrity guest hosts. David Spade is the first of the season, and he welcomes 13 lovely ladies (Serena Chew, Jessenia Cruz, Maurissa Gunn, Tahzjuan Hawkins, Abigail Heringer, Deandra Kanu, Victoria Larson, Tammy Ly, Natasha Parker, Victoria Paul, Mari Pepin-Solis, Serena Pitt, and Kelsey Weier) and 10 gorgeous guys (Joe Amabile, James Bonsall, Kenny Braasch, Connor Brennan, Aaron Clancy, Tre Cooper, Noah Erb, Ivan Hall, Brendan Morais, and Karl Smith). Throughout the season, additional eligible bachelors and bachelorettes will join the search to find love in Paradise.

Diary of a Future President—Wednesday, August 18, on Disney+
Season two continues the origin story of Cuban American and future leader Elena Cañero-Reed (Tess Romero) as she enters the seventh grade. This coming-of-age series and family comedy follows Elena through the ups and downs of middle school which set her on the path to becoming the president of the United States. In season two, Elena bounces back from the “summer reset”; Bobby (Charlie Bushnell) comes to term with his sexuality; and Gabi (Selenis Leyva) and Sam (Michael Weaver) take their relationship to the next level.

Growing Up Animal—Wednesday, August 18, on Disney+
Narrated by Emmy® Award-nominated actress Tracee Ellis Ross, this Disney+ original series from National Geographic offers an intimate and extraordinary look at baby animals, from the safety of the womb to the uncertainty of birth and their tentative first steps. Each adventurous episode sees the incredible transformation of a different baby animal—chimps, sea lions, elephants, African wild dogs, lions, and grizzlies—full of wonder and emotion. This is the magical story of a mother’s instinct to nurture and her infant’s drive to survive.

Good Trouble—Wednesday, August 18, at 10 p.m. ET on Freeform
In “Opening Statements,” Callie (Maia Mitchell) sees Jamie (Beau Mirchoff) in a new light as trial begins. After running into old colleagues, Mariana (Cierra Ramirez) wonders if she can ever make amends. Meanwhile, Malika (Zuri Adelee) must learn to set boundaries, and a new relationship between Alice (Sherry Cola) and Ruby (Shannon Chan-Kent) is revealed.

Nine Perfect Strangers—Wednesday, August 18, on Hulu
Based on Liane Moriarty’s New York Times bestselling book, the eight-episode series stars Nicole Kidman, Melissa McCarthy, Michael Shannon, Luke Evans, Bobby Cannavale, Regina Hall, Samara Weaving, Melvin Gregg, Asher Keddie, Grace Van Patten, Tiffany Boone, and Manny Jacinto. Promised total transformation, nine very different people arrive at Tranquillum House, a private retreat run by the enigmatic wellness guru Masha (Kidman).

Behind the Scenes of Spin’s Most Colorful Scene

August 16, 2021August 10, 2021

By Zach Johnson

Were you tickled pink by the color run scene in the Disney Channel Original Movie Spin? Did it make you green with envy, perhaps? The event, organized by Ginger (Kerri Medders) and Rhea (Avantika) and inspired by Holi, the Hindu festival of colors, is one of the movie’s standout scenes. But as much fun as the color run looks onscreen, it was actually “really chaotic” to film, recalls director Manjari Makijany. “That was definitely one of those days where everything that could go wrong did go wrong. It was raining, we had a lot of extras, and because we were following all the protocols for COVID-19, we had to make sure everybody tested negative.”

The health and safety of everyone on set was of the utmost importance, of course. Still, Makijany wasn’t about to let inclement weather rain on her parade, and the cast and the extras followed her lead. “All of a sudden, I had half the time to film the emotional beats, the musical beats, and the grand background,” Makijany tells D23. “That was definitely challenging, but it was also the most fun scene to film because we had this lovely color theory going on with Max and Rhea’s color palettes, where Max was in cool colors and Rhea was in warm colors. And when time slows down, Rhea is encompassed in a blue splash of color, and then a yellow splash hits her; it’s literally a melding of her two worlds.”

“There was a lot going on with that one, for sure,” adds Anna Cathcart, who plays Molly. “One of the biggest things was we only had one take. We were all wearing white; the whole crowd was wearing white outfits. Once those powder cannons went off and once everyone started throwing powder, you were colorful—and you were gonna stay colorful!”

According to Michael Bishop, who plays Max, working around the “very temperamental” weather added a sense of excitement and urgency to filming. “We had several extras in this park, and every time it would rain, they would be sent back to where they were being held. Then it would stop raining and someone would say, ‘Run! Quick! Everyone, get out there! We’re going to shoot the scene! We’re getting all the colors ready.’ And it would be this crazy run out to the park. We would try to shoot it really quickly, and then it would start raining again, so everyone would have to run back. It was fun, but also tough to navigate.”

To ensure Makijany got all the footage she needed, the cast and extras rehearsed the scene repeatedly as they waited for a break in the clouds. “We went over it for so long to make sure it went smoothly,” says Cathcart. “It was definitely a chaotic day with so much going on and so many people managing all the moving parts, but it worked out. It was beautiful.”

Jahbril Cook, who plays Watson, recalls another highlight of the shoot: “It looks so beautiful, magical, and majestic in the movie; I had a great time. It looks so good!”

While “everything that could go wrong did go wrong,” everyone is proud of how the scene turned out. According to Makijany, “A lot of people celebrated Holi for the first time when we were filming that scene, and they were like, ‘I can’t believe we haven’t celebrated this festival before. We’ve got to continue this tradition and celebrate Holi every year.’ So, it was fun.” Bishop was one of those people, and he had a blast sharing the moment with his co-stars. “Shooting the color run was awesome because I’d never experienced this part of Indian culture before,” he says. “I learned so much. It was awesome to be thrown into that.”

New Tenaya Stone Spa Opens September 16 at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa at Disneyland Resort

August 13, 2021

By the D23 Team

The ultimate in rest and relaxation is the name of the game when Tenaya Stone Spa, a boutique retreat, opens September 16, 2021, at the Disneyland Resort. The upscale spa is nestled inside Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa—and as luck would have it, you can make advance reservations starting today! FYI: Tenaya Stone Spa will initially be available for guests of the three Hotels of the Disneyland Resort, and will be open to non-hotel guests at a later date.

Inspired by the spirit of nature and California heritage, Tenaya Stone Spa is a new 6,000 square-foot facility designed by Disney Imagineers who gathered inspiration from the spirit of nature, indigenous cultures of California, and the iconic Craftsman design of the hotel. While it’s just steps from the hotel’s entrance to Disney California Adventure Park, Tenaya Stone Spa is a true worlds-away hideaway…

Guests can enjoy their customized spa day in this rejuvenating haven by choosing from an array of luxuriating body treatments, massage, and salon services—all performed in this softly serene setting. The spa features eight treatment rooms; two for couples’ massage; four manicure/pedicure chairs; a relaxation lounge; men’s and women’s changing rooms; and a retail boutique. “Tenaya Stone Spa’s distinctive setting and experience encourages relaxation, revitalization, and restoring balance,” explains Brett Perkins, Tenaya Stone Spa director. “Our customized treatments are designed to be stress-relieving, pampering, and purposeful, combining a blend of therapies and products.”

There’s another beautifully unique aspect to this brand-new location: its name. “The spa name Tenaya (pronounced ten-eye-a) can be interpreted ‘to dream’ in the indigenous culture of the Yosemite Valley,” says Dawn Jackson, a Native American cultural advisor within Disney, who began working on the project as an Imagineer on the Story Development team. “For modern-day travelers seeking a respite to dream and recharge, the spa provides an opportunity to relax into a dream-like state, a reverie of being lost in one’s thoughts, regaining balance within themselves.” Laid out according to the four directions of north, south, east, and west, and aligned with the four colors of white, red, black and yellow, the spa is thoughtfully designed. Guests will notice several special touches such as wood flooring cut in rounds; a chandelier designed from a tree root; stained-glass doors and windows; rocks and minerals; and art pieces crafted by regional artisans.

Within the spa, guests will discover an actual Tenaya Stone—a focal point and a place to pause and set intentions. This intimate nature-themed arbor then leads to a softly sunlit relaxation room with a stained-glass window of a rising sun and a trickling water feature. The stone was a gift from a Miwok Elder and her family who are descendants of Chief Tenaya in Yosemite Valley. With blessings, the stone now resides at the heart of the spa, offering inspiration to all visitors with its peaceful energy. “Tenaya Stone Spa embraces the concept of the natural order of four, found throughout many indigenous cultures of the world… In developing the spa, we aspired to create a fresh take on the principles of the Arts & Crafts movement by honoring nature. We drew inspiration from the foundation of the hotel, literally in the stones, the earth, and the trees, and figuratively in the promise of a place to relax and to dream,” adds Katrina Mosher, art director, Walt Disney Imagineering.

Magical Massages
Massage therapies available at Tenaya Stone Spa include the customized Tenaya Signature Massage and the Tenaya River Stone Massage, which incorporates heated river stones to help soothe and relax the body. Guests may slip into nirvana with the Head, Hands & Feet With Heart Massage or unwind with their significant other with a side-by-side Tenaya Signature Couples Massage.

The Aromatherapy Massage uses plant-based aromas made from essential oils infused with gem elixirs and flower essences. The Herbal Poultice Massage uses warmed poultices designed to melt away muscle tension by combining pressure with steamed compresses of wild crafted herbs. And the Mother-To-Be Massage uses pre-natal techniques, organic products, and pre-natal cushions designed to create comfort for the expecting mommy in mind.

Beguiling Body Treatments
The Purify & Refresh Body Treatment hydrates and exfoliates, beginning with a warm milk nectar wrap, followed by a sea salt exfoliation with notes of clove, a purifying mud wrap, and an oil-infused ginger and grapefruit extract designed to promote skin rejuvenation.

The Wild Honey and Mud Body Renewal is a four-step treatment including red clay and micro- pumice exfoliation, a peat mud nutrient mask, fruit serum and an oil massage crafted to give the skin a moisturized, radiant glow. In addition, the Nourishing Avocado Body Treatment is designed to refresh the skin with dry brushing, a whipped shea sugar exfoliation, and a nourishing mask—along with a scalp, shoulder, and foot massage.

Treats for the Feets
Hotel guests who’ve done a lot of walking will surely delight in the Step in Time Foot Massage, a calming foot soak and lower leg massage… or they can sink into pure relaxation with the Mindful Traveler Foot Treatment—an exfoliating foot soak and energizing massage designed to help increase circulation, reduce lower leg muscle stress, and leave legs and feet feeling silky smooth. Plus, the Avocado Lime & Honey Foot Treatment caresses the skin with antioxidant oils, smoothing exfoliation, hydrating avocado butter mask, honey-based fruit serum, and skin-glistening agave nectar oil for a ready-to-go finish.

Salon Services
In addition, spa goers can add a sprinkle of magic to their Tenaya Stone Spa visit with manicures and pedicures designed to make guests look and feel fabulous—whether strolling through the Disneyland Resort or attending an enchanting special occasion.

The spa is located near GCH Craftsman Bar & Grill, where spa guests may enjoy a bite to eat before or after their spa treatment—and it’s all just steps from the hotel’s entrance to Disney California Adventure park.

For more information, a complete list of services*, and to make spa reservations, visit Disneyland.com/TenayaStoneSpa. (Note that facials and make-up applications will be offered at Tenaya Stone Spa at a later date.)

*Salon treatments are for ages 18 and older; children (ages 14-17) receiving salon services must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. At this time, all spa guests are required to wear an approved face covering during their entire visit.

First Look at National Geographic’s Growing Up Animal—Plus More in News Briefs

August 13, 2021August 12, 2021

By Courtney Potter

Disney+ Reveals First Look at National Geographic’s Growing Up Animal

Earlier this week, Disney+ shared a breathtaking first look at National Geographic’s Growing Up Animal, an original series premiering exclusively on the streaming service next Wednesday, August 18.

Narrated by Tracee Ellis Ross, the Emmy® Award-nominated star of ABC’s black-ish, Growing Up Animal captures the intimate and extraordinary adventures of baby animals—from the safety of the womb to the uncertainty of birth and their tentative first steps. Each episode follows the incredible transformation of a different iconic animal: baby chimps, sea lions, elephants, African wild dogs, lions, and grizzlies… all of whom are full of wonder and emotion. This is the magical, heart-warming story of a mother’s instinct to nurture and her infant’s drive to survive.

The six-episode series is truly an in-depth examination—using unique technology to allow viewers to experience first-hand what these mothers and babies endure during the path to new life. As each episode follows the pregnant mother’s journey, scientifically accurate in-utero baby animal silicone models are used to portray the miracles happening within the womb; these scenes depict a realistic view of the animals at various stages in fetal development. World-renowned scientists and animal researchers gathered the data and scans to make the models as accurate and life-like as possible, all especially for the series. Sounds epic and educational—one of our fave combos.

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Weekend

This weekend kicks off with a Friday the 13th… but don’t fret: It’s looking to be a truly fun-lucky 72 hours filled with great new stuff to watch from around the worlds of Disney—including the big Disney Channel premieres of Spin, Descendants: The Royal Wedding, and Disney’s Magic Bake-Off. And there’s more where that came from; check out our full rundown.

Fun at Downtown Disney District and Disney Springs with Disney’s Magic Bake-Off

Speaking of Disney’s Magic Bake-Off, if you find yourself at Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort the weekend of August 20-22, you’ll be able to delight in some delectable series-related fun. During this unique event—with showings at 5 p.m., 6 p.m., and 7 p.m.—kids ages 7-12 can put their skills to the test decorating cupcakes with Disneyland Resort pastry chef (and Magic Bake-Off judge) Graciela “Gracie” Gomez while a DJ spins some fabulous beats! Space is limited for cupcake decorating and this event is free, so calling all parents: Make sure to sign up starting at 4 p.m. each day at Downtown Disney District to secure a spot for your kidlet(s). It’s easy peasy—just visit the Downtown Disney District stage where an Events cast member will be able to assist with signing up for a time slot at 5 p.m., 6 p.m., or 7 p.m. on the day of your visit. And after you have finished decorating up a storm with Chef Gracie, make sure to head over to the Downtown Disney District courtyard adjacent to the stage for two deliciously colorful photo walls (which are already up and ready for selfies).

But that’s not all: Bakers on the East Coast can whip up their best pose at the all-new photo wall at Disney Springs at the Walt Disney World Resort. Only available this August, the magical Magic Bake-Off poster is located on the wall next to the Disney’s Days of Christmas store. And as a reminder from our friends at the Disney Parks Blog, don’t forget to tag these photos with #DisneyMagicBakeOff and #DisneySprings… and make sure to scan the QR code for a special surprise!

**New and Returning Cast Announced for The Lion King and Aladdin on Broadway**

With Broadway coming alive in New York City once again, Disney Theatrical Productions announced a plethora of casting news related to not only The Lion King and Aladdin and their Big Apple-based productions, but also to their North American tours of Frozen and The Lion King. Read up on all the triple-threat talents you can expect to see gracing these various stages by clicking here.

Global Rendition of “Starting Now” for the Ultimate Princess Celebration

Fifteen different performers from across the world were recently tasked with recording a brand-new version of original song, “Starting Now,” as part of the Ultimate Princess Celebration initiative. The song—inspired by Disney Princesses and Queens and celebrating the heroines who fill our world with courage and kindness—was initially recorded by superstar and Grammy Award®-winning artist Brandy. Produced by Grammy Award nominee Oak Felder and written by Jason Mater, Jordan Powers, and Darren Criss (yes, that Darren Criss), “Starting Now” was initially released on Walt Disney Records on May 21. Artists across the world have also released local versions of “Starting Now” since then.

Among the artists (and their languages) are Brandy (English); Leslie Clio (German); Cerise Calixte (French); Noemi (Italian); Nerea Rodríguez (Spanish—Spain); Karol Sevilla (Spanish—Latin America); Agnes Nunes (Portuguese); Mimi Korg (Russian); Alicja Szemplińska (Polish); Krisiya (Bulgarian); Feli (Romanian); Gioia Parijs (Dutch); Ailee (Korean); Eden Alene (Hebrew); and Stefania (Greek).

The Ultimate Princess Celebration, launched in April 2021, is a year-long event spotlighting the courage and kindness Disney heroines inspire in fans around the world. Families can visit DisneyPrincessStories.com (or DisneyPrincessStories.co.uk, for those of you “across the pond”) to download the 14 inspiring stories from the “Tales of Courage and Kindness Story Collection”; available for free, these stories will inspire fans of all ages to carry out their own small acts of kindness and help to create a kinder world.

**ICYMI: Exclusive Q&A with Free Guy Director Shawn Levy**

It’s an extremely anticipated film, and it’s coming to theaters this very weekend. Ready yourself for the mirth and raucous merriment of Free Guy—starring Ryan Reynolds and Jodie Comer (among a slew of hilarious others)—by reading D23’s exclusive Q&A with the film’s director, Shawn Levy. Click here and be thoroughly entertained.

Every Way to Celebrate 50 Years of Walt Disney World (That We Know So Far)

August 12, 2021August 12, 2021

By the D23 Team

Today marks 50 days until October 1, when 50th anniversary celebration of the Walt Disney World Resort opening begins. With 50 exciting days ahead of us until the start of the festivities, we’ve rounded up everything we know so far about “The World’s Most Magical Celebration – Walt Disney World Resort 50^th Anniversary:”

The World’s Most Magical Celebration
As announced back in February, the 50th anniversary celebration for Walt Disney World begins on October 1 and will last for 18 months, featuring new experiences at the resort’s four theme parks and beyond—including shimmering EARidescent décor. Plus, Mickey and Minnie will dress in dazzling new outfits created just for the celebration. D23 celebrated this announcement with an episode of our D23 Inside Disney podcast featuring Walt Disney World Resort Director of Public Relations Dave Coombs, who dove into details on the celebration.

Royal Makeover of Cinderella Castle
A gorgeous sight for any fan walking down Main Street, U.S.A., Cinderella Castle is the glimmering jewel in the Magic Kingdom skyline. This year, the castle is adorned with extra sparkle and shine thanks to a special 50th anniversary crest. The crest completes the castle’s royal, EARidescent makeover, joining gold bunting, sparkling embellishments and other new enhancements leading up to “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” beginning on October 1.

Display of “Fab 50” Friends
As part of the countdown to “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” a collection of 50 golden characters are being unveiled across Disney—including by us here at D23! Earlier this week, our very own Michael Vargo, Head of D23, revealed that Orange Bird would be one of the 50 characters featured in the statues that will be on display throughout the parks at Walt Disney World Resort. Stay tuned to social media to see who else is joining the roster of characters like Mickey, Edna Mode, R2-D2, Cheshire cat, and more as part of the Disney Fab 50.

Magical Mementos
Last week, Disney Parks Blog revealed a fantastic first look at the new merchandise collections debuting this fall across Walt Disney World Resort, with select items available at shopDisney.com. From classic to contemporary styles – and everything in between – you can take home the magic of the 50th anniversary celebration when the merchandise debuts this fall. Starting today, you can get select pre-celebration must-haves throughout Walt Disney World Resort and on shopDisney.com to help get you ready for “The World’s Most Magical Celebration.”

Remember to Spot this New Scene!
Next time you put on your opera glasses for a viewing of Mickey’s PhilharMagic at Disneyland Resort or Disneyland Paris, you might spot a brand-new scene featuring music and characters from Disney and Pixar’s Coco. As part of the 50th anniversary celebration, this Coco-inspired sequence will also be debuting at Magic Kingdom’s version of Mickey’s PhilharMagic later this year.
Check out this video detailing more of the collaboration between Walt Disney Imagineering, Disney Animation, and Pixar:

Lighting Up The Night
It’s not a celebration without a spectacular display of lights to brighten the night—and there’s nighttime entertainment galore just in time for the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World. Over at Magic Kingdom, look to the nighttime sky starting October 1 to see Disney Enchantment, featuring music, enhanced lighting, stunning fireworks and, for the first time, immersive projection effects that extend from Cinderella Castle down Main Street, U.S.A.

At EPCOT, the much-anticipated new nighttime spectacular Harmonious will also debut on October 1, embracing new technical magic that incorporates pyrotechnics, choreographed moving fountains, lighting and media in new ways. As a celebration of Disney music that inspires people worldwide, you’ll hear new interpretations of classic Disney songs as you’ve never heard them before, reimagined in more than a dozen languages by a diverse group of 240 artists from around the world.

If you need some daytime dazzlement, head over to Disney’s Animal Kingdom to enjoy Disney KiteTails several times daily, starting October 1. Performers will fly windcatchers and kites of all shapes and sizes, while out on the water elaborate three-dimensional kites—some stretching to 30 feet long—will depict Disney animal friends, including Simba, Zazu, Baloo, and King Louie.

Disney Magic from the Start of Your Trip
For many of us, our trip to “The Most Magical Place on Earth” starts at the airport. Touching down at the Orlando International Airport, you’re only a drive away from your favorite Walt Disney World Resort parks, hotels, restaurants, and more. Coming just in time for the 50th anniversary celebration this fall, airport passengers will discover many exciting Disney touches, including a wide-spanning art installation in the terminal train stations featuring favorite Disney characters, new magic engaging passengers as they walk through a glistening glow of projected EARidescent light patterns, and an immersive photo opportunity with a re-creation of a Disney ride vehicle to capture special memories as they make their way through the airport.

Turn a Page on Celebration
While the festivities at Walt Disney World resort are only 50 days away, you can immerse yourself in the celebration soon thanks to a selection of exciting books celebrating Walt Disney World’s legacy arriving in September. Check out Disney Parks Blog for the full list, including A Portrait of Walt Disney World: 50 Years of The Most Magical Place on Earth, written by friends of D23 Kevin Kern, Tim O’Day and Steven Vagnini – which is available for pre-orders now and will be officially released on Sept. 28, 2021.

Bring the Celebration to Your Home
Wanting to start celebrating early? You can take home some of the celebration now thanks to the 2021 D23 Gold Member Collector Set, an exclusively curated set celebrating the vibrant history of The Vacation Kingdom of the World. Featuring a vintage-inspired lunchbox, a stunning pin set, an exclusive vinyl record, and so much more, this set is perfect for any fan who wants to start the celebration right from their home. Made exclusively for D23 Gold Members, you can join the club here to get your own collector set.

Already have the set and craving more? We’re releasing new pin sets celebrating our favorite characters from Walt Disney World Resort. Our first set, celebrating the characters of Magic Kingdom, is available now for D23 Gold Members.

Much, Much More
And stay tuned! There is much more of this story left to tell, and we’ll continue that tale each day throughout the next 50 days right up to the big moment on Oct. 1.

So, keep checking back with us early and often here at D23.com to learn more about “The World’s Most Magical Celebration,” and follow #DisneyWorld50 to make sure you don’t miss a moment!

Inside the Magic of Descendants: The Royal Wedding

August 12, 2021August 12, 2021

By Zach Johnson

This Friday, you’re invited to attend the most anticipated social event of the season!

In Descendants: The Royal Wedding, an all-new animated special premiering after the Disney Channel Original Movie Spin, happily ever after is finally about to begin for Mal (voice of Dove Cameron) and King Ben (voice of Mitchell Hope)… or so they think. Taking a page out of Maleficent’s playbook, Hades (voice of Cheyenne Jackson) shows up to their wedding, adding a dash of drama to his daughter’s big day. “Listen, he likes attention,” Jackson tells D23 with a smirk. “I think his intentions are always good, but he loves drama, and he loves pomp and circumstance, and he loves to keep people guessing.”

Since fans last saw him onscreen in Descendants 3, Hades has “softened a little bit,” adds Jackson. “But he still likes to maintain his edge. Hades is a drama queen. What can I say?”

Thankfully, Mal can count on fellow VKs like Evie (voice of Sofia Carson) and Jay (Booboo Stewart) when the going gets tough. “Jay, he’s trying to manage,” says Stewart. “Dealing with weddings isn’t his forte, but he’s trying to keep everything in check as well as he can.” Mal and Ben have overcome countless obstacles over the course of their relationship, so it’s almost fitting—poetic, even—that their wedding doesn’t go according to plan. Says Stewart, “I think it’s going to be very satisfying for the fans to see it all to come together.”

Also reprising their roles in the animated special are Sarah Jeffery as Audrey, Melanie Paxson as Fairy Godmother, China Anne McClain as Uma, Jedidiah Goodacre as Chad, Anna Cathcart as Dizzy, Dan Payne as Beast, and Bobby Moynihan as Dude the Dog. The absence of VK Carlos, played by the late Cameron Boyce, will be acknowledged in the storyline, and Boyce’s memory will be honored in the telecast.

Although Stewart had seen a version of Jay animated in the short-form series Descendants: Wicked World, Descendants: The Royal Wedding marks the first time Jackson saw his character animated. “The fact that we were animated was kind of a surprise, because there was a different incarnation at one point where we were going to shoot it live-action, and then it went away,” Jackson reveals. “Once it came back to animation, I thought, ‘Oh! Great! There are different things you can do as an animated movie.’ They sent me a couple of early renderings, and it’s interesting to see what the artists pick up on when they’re trying to capture you as a character. Mine was, like, all about eyebrows. I just thought it was fun. I showed my kids and they thought it was really, really cool, and it was fun for me.” Stewart loves the hand-drawn aesthetic used in Descendants: The Royal Wedding. “The specific style is very classic, which I think is really cool,” he says. “It reminds me of the original Disney classics. It’s really nice that they would do that for us, and I think it speaks to what we’ve been able to do with Disney and to how we’ve represented these characters.”

Descendants: The Royal Wedding features a new original song, which was one of the most exciting elements for Jackson. “As you know, in Descendants, music is such an integral part of everything. We remember all of the catchy songs, all of the great hooks, all of the great modulations, all of the great, great melodies. So, if you’re only going to have one big song, it’s got to be a good one. And this one is so good. Everybody gets a chance to shine, and it sticks in your head. It feels like an homage to all of the big Descendants songs, but it also feels new in a way. And it’s surprisingly emotional. I had goosebumps on my goosebumps!”

D23 Inside Disney Hits 100—Best Memories and Top Shows

August 12, 2021August 12, 2021

By Jeffrey Epstein

Today, D23 Inside Disney podcast has hit the century mark: 100 episodes. It’s in large part thanks to our incredible partners from around the company who, week after week, have given us access to some of the most incredible creative talent at Disney. But it’s mostly thanks to all the incredible Disney fans who have been listening! Thank you!

For me, the experience continues to be invigorating as the pod affords me the opportunity to delve deeper into all the parts of Disney that I’m passionate about (which, as anyone who listens knows, is pretty much everything). The D23 Team thought it would be fun to ask the pod crew about favorite memories and episodes of the show. Did we select your favorites? Tag us at #D23InsideDisney on social to let us know.

Sheri Henry (Host): One of my favorite moments was recording our first-ever episode at D23 Expo! All of us were working nonstop in the days leading up to our recording session, so I was running on pure adrenaline—plus my body weight in iced coffee. I remember it feeling so surreal to walk into a big empty room at the convention center, chairs still set up from a previous Expo panel, and spot three mics set up on a corner table. Although my palms were probably the clammiest they’ve ever been and I’m sure I had to re-record my lines over and over again, I could tell it was magic in the making—the start of something new. (High School Musical reference very intended.)

Sheri’s Top Three Pod Picks:

Pete Docter
Yvette Nicole Brown—every time we spoke with her, like this time and this time…
Alfonso Ribeiro
BONUS: I’ll never forget recording our Celebrating Disney Classics video episode. Don Hahn?! Paige O’Hara?!?! Three-year-old me is screaming… 30-year-old me is also screaming.

Tony Morrison (Host): Joining D23 Inside Disney has become a career highlight for me and one of the most magical additions to my Disney story! I love that sharing Disney news can also mean sharing wonderful and inspiring stories together that leave us feeling optimistic and hopeful.

Tony’s Top Three Pod Picks

Kelly Marie Tran. I will never forget as she was my first interview after joining the pod, and we had just had her on Good Morning America. She and I worked together briefly while I was on a Lucasfilm / Disney Consumer Products project for The Rise of Skywalker and it was so fun to “know” the guest for my first pod interview.
Andrew Barth Feldman is a guest we booked pretty much via Twitter, which was hilarious!
And of course, getting to turn the tables on my colleague and friend Robin Roberts was an immensely humbling moment!

Candice Valdez (Original Host): Being a part of the show and helping to launch an official Disney podcast will always be one of the highlights of my career at The Walt Disney Company. It’s hard to narrow it down to just a few memories but our livestreams from the openings of Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway are my faves! When Yvette Nicole Brown squeezed my arm during that first ride on Rise, I could feel not just her excitement but also the energy of every Disney fan everywhere!! Getting to meet so many of the incredible people who make the magic we all know and love along with sharing so many experiences with Jeffrey and Sheri will always hold a special place in my heart, and I was thrilled to have been a part of the show as long as I was! Thanks again to D23 and all the incredible fans!

Candice’s Top Three Pod Picks

Ginger Zee—my meteorological idol! I’ve always secretly wanted to report on the weather and no one does it better than her!
Kermit the Frog was hard to beat although I did have a few more questions about Miss Piggy!
Bob Gurr—not only inspiring to chat with because of his legendary work with Disney, but his personal outlook on life truly brought a smile to my face!

Bruce Lam (Producer): The Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway video episode was memorable because of all the content we were able to produce during that trip. Not only were we working on the video episode, but we also recorded a few audio episodes as well. As with all our video episodes, being able to put together a show around such fun and new attractions and then watching it all come together into a full video episode within a few days is always a lot of work and rewarding at the same time.

Bruce’s Top Three Pod Picks:

Paul Preston (Editor): I work on helping the show sound great and flow smoothly every week, but I gotta admit one of the biggest perks of the gig is getting out of it the same thing the fans do—I’m in the know! I mean, spending as much time at home as I did in the last year and a half would’ve been more of a chore if the podcast didn’t alert me to what Holey Moley is. That might be the greatest show on television. I’m also proud of everyone involved in the show since the beginning for the smooth transition from in-studio to cyberspace. We didn’t miss an episode! We started with a very entertaining lineup of guests, but we’ve evolved to guest lists that now play out like wish-lists come true. In two months’ time we had on the show, back-to-back, John Stamos, Kevin Feige, Tom Hiddleston, Jim Gaffigan, Tony Hale, Andrew Barth Feldman, and Michael Bolton. I mean, that’s just insane.

Paul’s Top Three Pod Picks:

John Stamos—a one-of-a-kind interviewee in terms of how loose, interactive, and unpredictable he is.
Joe Tessitore—refreshing to hear how funny a sports caller could be, his play-by-play of breakfast was awesome.
Ericson Core & Kim Zubick—they did what they came do ’cause I watched and loved Togo!

Me (Jeffrey, Host): The trouble with letting everyone go before me (and not allowing repeats) is that many of my favorite memories have already been “claimed.” Doing things “in real life” has always made me happy, so returning to Disney California Adventure to stuff my face with shawarma and chicken at Avengers Campus was sheer bliss. Also, and I can’t remember who it was or when it happened, but the first time I had someone tell me they liked the show—someone who was not my mother… I mean, to know people were listening—and liked it—that’s everything.

Jeffrey’s Top Three Pod Picks:

Colin O’Donoghue and Patrick Fischler were, like, the ultimate comedy duo you didn’t see coming.
Heidi Blickenstaff and Kara Lindsay—Disney, Broadway, and Disney Cruises are my perfect trifecta so chatting about all three with Heidi and Kara was heaven.
Ming-Na Wen was a newly minted Disney Legend who brings the unique perspective of someone in the Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars universes

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Weekend

August 12, 2021August 11, 2021

By Zach Johnson

Who says Friday the 13th is unlucky? It’s going to be a FUN-lucky night on Disney Channel and DisneyNOW when Spin, Descendants: The Royal Wedding, and Disney’s Magic Bake-Off debut. Join us that day in celebrating the 79th anniversary of the release of Bambi by streaming the film on Disney+. Finally, on Sunday, Hulu adds The Hate U Give to its library.

Spin—Friday, August 13, at 8 p.m. ET on Disney Channel and DisneyNOW
In this Disney Channel Original Movie, Indian American teen Rhea (Avantika) discovers a passion for creating DJ mixes that blend the rich textures of her South Asian culture and the world around her. Her life revolves around her eclectic group of friends Molly (Anna Catchart), Watson (Jahbril Cook), and Ginger (Kerri Medders), as well as her after-school coding club, her family’s Indian restaurant, and her tight-knit, multi-generational family. Everything changes when she meets aspiring DJ Max (Michael Bishop) and her long lost passion for music is reignited. Rhea discovers she has a natural gift for creating beats and producing music—and now, she must summon the courage to follow her true inner talent.

Descendants: The Royal Wedding—Friday, August 13, at 9:40 p.m. ET on Disney Channel and DisneyNOW
Happily-ever-after is about to begin for Auradon’s beloved power couple Mal (voice of Dove Cameron) and King Ben (voice of Mitchell Hope) as they prepare to say “I do” at an epic celebration with their friends and family. Unfortunately, Hades (voice of Cheyenne Jackson) threatens to ruin their big day. Debuting a brand-new song, the animated special features the voices of Sofia Carson as Evie, Booboo Stewart as Jay, Sarah Jeffery as Audrey, Melanie Paxson as Fairy Godmother, China Anne McClain as Uma, Jedidiah Goodacre as Chad, Anna Cathcart as Dizzy, Dan Payne as Beast, and Bobby Moynihan as Dude the Dog.

Disney’s Magic Bake-Off—Friday, August 13, at 10:10 p.m. ET on Disney Channel and DisneyNOW
This new one-hour series follows three teams of two kid bakers as they race against the clock to design a Disney-inspired cake. Co-hosts Dara Reneé and Issac Ryan Brown, along with Disneyland resort pastry chef Graciela Gomez, guide the baking teams through fun challenges and unexpected twists designed to take their baking abilities, techniques, and creativity to new culinary heights. Only one team will be named Disney Baking Champion!

Bambi—Friday, August 13, on Disney+
With its awe-inspiring animation, this timeless classic is beloved by generations. In a life-changing adventure, Bambi and his friends, Thumper and Flower, explore the dangers and wonders of the woods—and ultimately, he fulfills his destiny as Great Prince of the Forest.

The Hate U Give—Sunday, August 15, on Hulu
Based on Angie Thomas’ best-selling novel of the same name and directed by George Tillman Jr., the drama centers on Starr Carter (Amandla Stenberg), who lives in two worlds: the poor, Black neighborhood she resides in and the mostly white prep school she attends. The uneasy balance is shattered when she witnesses a white policeman (Drew Starkey) fatally shoot her best friend, Khalil Harris (Algee Smith). Amid community outrage and national news coverage, 16-year-old Starr must find her voice and stand up for what’s right.

Disney+ Reveals Cast and Premiere Date for Home Sweet Home Alone

August 12, 2021August 12, 2021

By Zach Johnson

Did Christmas come early?! Earlier this morning, Disney+ announced that 20th Century Studios’ Home Sweet Home Alone, an all-new adventure comedy from the beloved holiday film franchise, will debut November 12, 2021, exclusively on the streaming service.

Max Mercer is a mischievous and resourceful young boy who has been left behind while his family is in Japan for the holidays. So, when a married couple attempting to retrieve a priceless heirloom sets their sights on the Mercer family’s home, it is up to Max to protect it from the trespassers… and he will do whatever it takes to keep them out. Hilarious hijinks of epic proportions ensue, but despite the absolute chaos, Max comes to realize that there really is no place like home sweet home.

Home Sweet Home Alone stars Ellie Kemper (Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt), Rob Delaney (Deadpool 2), Archie Yates (Jojo Rabbit), Aisling Bea (Living with Yourself), Kenan Thompson (Saturday Night Live), Tim Simons (Veep), Pete Holmes (The Secret Life of Pets 2), Devin Ratray (Home Alone), Ally Maki (Toy Story 4), and Chris Parnell (Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues), and is directed by Dan Mazer (Dirty Grandpa).

The Home Sweet Home Alone screenplay is by Mikey Day & Streeter Seidell (Saturday Night Live), from a story by Day & Seidell and John Hughes (Home Alone), based on a screenplay by Hughes. Hutch Parker (X-Men: Dark Phoenix) and Dan Wilson (Patriots Day) serve as producers, with Jeremiah Samuels (Stuber) serving as executive producer.

Pondering the Possibilities of Marvel Studios’ What If…?

August 11, 2021August 11, 2021

By Zach Johnson

To put it simply, What If…? is “a love letter to the MCU.”

So says Brad Winderbaum, who serves as an executive producer alongside Kevin Feige, Bryan Andrews, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, and head writer AC Bradley. With Marvel Studios’ first animated series now streaming exclusively on Disney+, Winderbaum talked to D23: The Official Disney Fan Club about the adventures that await our favorite characters. What If…? flips the script on the MCU, reimagining famous events from the films in surprising ways. Not only is it a “love letter to the MCU,” as Winderbaum says, but the series “points to the multiverse—and to the possibilities of our universe moving forward.”

More than a dozen actors from the MCU—including Hayley Atwell, Chadwick Boseman, Dominic Cooper, Josh Brolin, Michael Douglas, Karen Gillan, Jeff Goldblum, Chris Hemsworth, Tom Hiddleston, Djimon Hounsou, Samuel L. Jackson, Michael B. Jordan, Natalie Portman, Jeremy Renner, Michael Rooker, Paul Rudd, Mark Ruffalo, Sebastian Stan, Stanley Tucci, and Taika Waititi—lend their voice talents to the series, which is already in production on its second season. Emmy®, Golden Globe®, and Tony Award winner Jeffrey Wright narrates the series as The Watcher, who oversees these vast new realities. “He’s a godlike, omnipotent figure who is larger than life,” Winderbaum says. “The challenge with a character like that is: How do you make him human? How do you make him relatable? He is mysterious, but he’s also kind of dangerous. You want to know more, and you’re hanging on his every word as he invites you into all these stories.”

“The Watcher is the audience,” Winderbaum continues. “This is a being who really, truly loves these characters. He can’t intervene, but just because he’s not an active participant, that doesn’t mean he doesn’t love these characters like we, the fans, love these characters.”

What If…? has a distinct illustrative style. The aesthetic was developed by storyboard artist Bryan Andrews in collaboration with Ryan Meinerding, the Head of Visual Development at Marvel Studios. “Both Bryan and Ryan were orbiting the style of J.C. Leyendecker, who was an American illustrator from about 100 years ago,” Winderbaum explains. “It’s a very difficult style to achieve. It’s very painterly. The light spreads in a very unique way. We worked with that style, while also creating our own technique, because it requires a 3D technique to achieve that 2D look.” Winderbaum jokingly refers to it as a “Leynerding style,” as it “has influences from J.C. Leyendecker but is very much Ryan Meinerding. With the incredible background work of our production designer, it creates a very rich, photographic feel in a 2D, comic-like world.”

To say that each episode of What If…? will be filled with references to the MCU is a “huge understatement,” Winderbaum adds. “If you like finding Easter eggs, there are a lot hiding in this. Just the fact that we get to revisit all these places we know from the movies, it’s almost as if we’re entering a memory in some cases. There is a lot of fun stuff to discover!”

Go even further behind the scenes of Marvel Studios’ new series What If…? in the summer 2021 issue of Disney twenty-three, offered exclusively to D23 Gold and Gold Family Members as a benefit of their membership. For more information, click here.