JUST ANNOUNCED: Disney twenty-three Celebrates 50 Years of the Walt Disney Archives

May 7, 2020May 7, 2020

By the D23 Team

This June, we’re celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Walt Disney Archives—and what better way to kick off the celebration than with a new issue of Disney twenty-three? In our summer 2020 issue, available exclusively to our D23 Gold Members, film critic and historian Leonard Maltin explores five remarkable decades of preserving Disney’s most beloved treasures, starting with what was once a one-man operation run out of an office in the Animation Building on The Walt Disney Studios lot to what has grown into a dedicated team of 30 staff members and a model for archives around the world. Dive in to a closer look at how the Archives serves as a vital resource for writers, directors, and, of course, Disney fans.

It’s once again time to play the music, and it’s time to light the lights. With the premiere of the new series Muppets Now coming soon to Disney+, the team bringing the show to life takes Disney twenty-three behind the scenes for a heartfelt look at the show. And Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy sit down for an exclusive interview to talk about their return to the screen—and the importance of Miss Piggy, of course.

Plus, Sir Kenneth Branagh, Dame Judi Dench, Josh Gad, and newcomer Ferdia Shaw discuss adapting the YA phenomenon Artemis Fowl into an epic feature, premiering this June on Disney+. Director and producer Don Hahn pens an essay on the making of his moving Howard Ashman documentary Howard for Disney+, and illuminates the inside story of the award-winning lyricist responsible for some of Disney’s most beloved songs. And Secret Society of Second-Born Royals star Skylar Astin reveals his Disneyland favorites, with photos shot exclusively for Disney twenty-three earlier this year at the resort.

Also included in the Summer issue of Disney twenty-three:

Brian Henson takes us on the set of the out-of-this-world Disney+ talk show Earth to Ned, complete with a celebrity-obsessed alien charged with destroying the planet
Film historian Dan Lanigan gives us an insider look at the making of Prop Culture, his fascinating new Disney+ series that looks at iconic props from timeless films such as Who Framed Roger Rabbit and Mary Poppins
From The Sound of Music to The Reluctant Dragon, 10 must-see Disney+ movies selected by members of the Walt Disney Archives team
Dazzling then-and-now Disneyland park photographs—plus an array of classic merchandise—in honor of the park’s 65th anniversary
Regular features including From the Desk of, By the Numbers, Character Analysis, D Society, and Ask the Walt Disney Archives

These Mickey Mouse-Themed Ray-Ban Sunglasses Will Add Disney Magic to Your Summer Style

May 6, 2020

Ray-Ban sunglasses are a timeless and cool fashion staple certain to add a summertime flair to any outfit—and what Disney fan wouldn’t want a pair decorated in honor of Mickey Mouse himself? This
Ray-Ban x Disney collaboration is a magical take on one of the best-selling Ray-Ban shades, the Justin, and is now available on the Sunglass Hut website.

Featuring NEW Mickey Mouse character art and limited-edition engraving on the temples, the Justin Mickey model is the latest addition to the Ray-Ban x Disney collection. This black frame features polarized lenses and comes in a standard Ray‐Ban case inside the exclusive Ray-Ban x Disney box, along with an authenticity card.

Limited quantities available—click here to add a pair to your summer wardrobe today!

Get Early Access to the May Limited-Edition Mickey

May 6, 2020May 11, 2020

The May Limited-Edition Movie Star Disney Mickey Mouse Plush is SOLD OUT! Check back next month for the announcement of June’s plush theme and the date and time for the sale launch on Amazon.

NOTE:

D23 Members will continue to be among the first to be notified about each month’s theme and have an opportunity to order the month’s design.
Each month, D23 will provide Members with advance notice of the date the plush will be available for purchase on Amazon.com.
On Monday, May 11, at 9 a.m. PST,visit this page on D23.com for the link to purchase the Movie Star Mickey Mouse plush.
Please Note: You must be signed in as a D23 Member to access the link to purchase. Click “Sign In” at the top of the page.
Please note extremely limited quantities of the plush will be available on Amazon.com.
Extended delivery time: Amazon is temporarily prioritizing the delivery of some items in order to serve their customers in need and ensure the safety of their associates. As a result, some delivery times are longer than usual.

Movie Star Mickey Mouse

Commemorate the Year of the Mouse with this Limited-Edition Disney Movie Star Mickey Mouse Plush. The fifth of 12 collectible large plush in the series, this exclusive Mickey Mouse celebrates the month of May. Mickey stands 16 inches tall and is made of deluxe mixed-materials featuring a collage of Mickey’s most famous roles, and embroidered details. Mickey features a commemorative gold and satin foot patch and includes a Certificate of Authenticity. He even comes in a window box featuring special Year of the Mouse packaging that’s ideal for collectors. The Year of the Mouse Movie Star Mickey Mouse plush makes the perfect gift for Disney fans of all ages. Collect all 12 of these commemorative Mickey Mouse plushes. Ages 3+.

Mickey Mouse is an international movie star whose popularity has crossed all cultural and language barriers for more than 90 years. The excitement of more than 100 Mickey Mouse shorts (120 to be exact!) was promoted on countless movie posters, each giving the adoring public a preview of the fun, laughter, and adventures that made Mickey Mouse the most beloved character in the world.

Special Edition Movie Star Mickey Mouse Plush celebrates the month of May.

Continue to watch every month for a brand-new Mickey plush design announcement! For more Disney favorites, visit amazon.com/Disney for a full assortment of products.

Katy, Lionel, and Luke Hint at Surprises to Come on American Idol

May 5, 2020

By Beth Deitchman

“I like that word, ‘surprise, surprise!’ You know what I’m saying?” Lionel Richie asked, following Sunday night’s episode of American Idol—the second to be filmed completely remotely. And we know exactly what he was saying! The evening was chock-full of unexpected moments of delight—from special appearances from musicians extraordinaire Stevie Wonder, Darius Rucker, and Charlie Puth; to the exciting reveal of this season’s top 10… which, thanks to the judges’ save, turned into a top 11.

The remote shows, Richie said, are coming together through “a group effort like I’ve never seen before.” He’s been thrilled by how innovative the contestants have been with their performances, and emphasizes, “We’re all kind of communicating by this amazing technological approach…How this show is rolling out is amazing. It really is amazing to see it all come together.”

During a virtual press conference after this week’s episode, Richie was joined by his fellow judges, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan, to give us the inside scoop on which performances blew them away this week, what we might expect from the upcoming season finale, and even how they’re dealing with hair and makeup challenges. Here are some of the fun facts we learned:

It was a unanimous decision for the judges to give their only save for the season to Makayla Phillips.
“There was no pulling of legs and fights breaking out,” Katy Perry reassured us, stressing, “She’s an incredible singer, first and foremost, and we based our decision on the talent.” At this point in the competition, Perry pointed out, all of the remaining contestants are so skilled that any one of them has the potential for superstardom.

Luke Bryan believes that Phillips has what he referred to as an “eye of the tiger” look. “She’s got a little swagger and a little confidence and that’s really great,” he said, sharing that he’s been a fan since her first audition. “I know I wanted that voice to get out there one more time for America to figure out what they wanted to do.”

The judges were just as moved as we were by the Idol hopefuls’ performances from home.
“Francisco made me cry,” Perry said of Francisco Martin’s tender rendition of James Arthur’s song, “Falling Like the Stars.” “I think it was the lyrics and the way he delivered them, the way he kind of looked into the iPhone,” she said with a laugh, acknowledging the new technology the contestants have learned to use to great effect. “It was just a powerful moment that I connected with.”

Richie has an affinity for a foursome that he lovingly referred to has his “aw shucks and shy guys”: Dillon James, Jonny West, Francisco Martin, and Arthur Gunn. “For me, what I love about them is they are so talented, but I think they are surprising themselves when they get voted to the next level. They’re almost in shock that they made it. I think what we’re discovering is them discovering themselves,” Richie said.

Staten Island-based Julia Gargano’s tribute to her home city, her moving performance of Billy Joel’s “New York State of Mind,” landed with all three judges. Bryan shared, “When you look at her being a really hardcore, New York prideful girl, and to be able to, at this point, do that whole moment today and honor New York, it was just a really cool moment with everything New York is dealing with right now.”

All three judges are developing new skills while staying safe at home.
Before the remote shows began, Bryan reached out to the makeup artist who usually tours with him for advice. “She put a little kit together and some instructional videos—and I guess blessed it with some rosary beads and prayed and prayed I would get it right,” he laughed.

Richie acknowledged that his hair is growing in more than he’d been used to, but he’s OK with that. He shared, ”I’m very happy to see it from one respect: I came from an era when hair was there, so I’m just glad to see it coming back in good strong form.”

Perry admitted that she doesn’t typically wear a lot of makeup in her down time, but she has a drawer full of products that she’s been able to go to. “I’m thankful to know how to apply a false eyelash,” she stressed, confessing that she feels more challenged when it comes to her hair. “I’m utilizing headbands and big earrings and trying to distract from my hair,” she said.

The coming weeks will bring more surprises… and some Disney Magic!
Next Sunday, ABC will air The Disney Family Singalong Volume II and Katy Perry plans to bring her own blend of pixie dust to the special, which will air immediately before American Idol. During Sunday night’s American Idol episode, the expectant mom told Ryan Seacrest that she’ll be “leaning into” the theme of Mother’s Day. “For me, it’s all about what I grew up listening and watching with my own mom, so I wanted to do a song from when I was a little girl and has special meaning to me,” Perry said.

The Idol hopefuls will also explore the worlds of Disney on next week’s show. Each remaining contestant will perform two songs: one from the renowned Disney songbook and the second dedicated to the mother figures in their lives as a Mother’s Day tribute.

And when it comes to the season finale, viewers should continue to expect the unexpected. “I think all of us are thinking about ways we can contribute from our houses, something interesting for the final show,” Perry said. “I think our producers, they have some tricks up their sleeves. I know Lionel’s got something up his sleeve. I’ve got something up my sleeve, and Luke does, too!” she promised. “We want to keep it spicy!”

Tune in to American Idol next Sunday, May 10, to find out who America voted into the Top 7, and to see the hopefuls take on some of your favorite Disney songs. The fun starts at 7 p.m. ET with The Disney Family Singalong: Volume II, followed by American Idol at 8 p.m. ET.

Taika Waititi to Direct and Co-Write New Star Wars Movie

May 4, 2020

By Zach Johnson

We’ve intercepted a transmission from a galaxy far, far away: Academy Award® winner Taika Waititi, who recently won Best Adapted Screenplay for Jojo Rabbit and directed the widely-acclaimed first season finale episode of The Mandalorian on Disney+, will direct and co-write a new Star Wars feature film for theatrical release! Joining Waititi on the screenplay will be Academy Award nominee Krysty Wilson-Cairns, who won a BAFTA Award for Outstanding British Film of the Year on the three-time Oscar®-winning film 1917.

In addition, the Star Wars adventures will continue on Disney+, as Emmy®-nominated writer Leslye Headland is currently developing a new untitled series for the streaming service. Headland will write, executive produce, and serve as showrunner for the in-development series. The project joins a growing list of Star Wars stories for Disney’s streaming platform, including Disney Legend Jon Favreau’s The Mandalorian, now in post-production on season two, and two previously ordered series: one based on Cassian Andor (Diego Luna) prior to the events of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and one following the adventures of Obi-Wan Kenobi (Ewan McGregor) between Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith and Star Wars: A New Hope.

All the Stellar Things to Read, Watch and Play This Star Wars Day

May 4, 2020May 5, 2020

By Savannah Salazar

Since its premiere in 1977, George Lucas’ Star Wars: A New Hope has influenced generations upon generations of fans, becoming a huge “force” in popular culture—spurring three trilogies, TV shows, books and games (and that just scratches the surface!). The classic tales of good vs. evil, light and dark and everyone in between resonated, pulling fans into a galaxy far from our own. So, no matter which sect of Star Wars fandom you come from, we’ve got you covered with our guide of what to read, watch and play this Star Wars Day. Now, May the 4th be with you!

To Watch:

The Skywalker Saga
With the arrival of Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker on Disney+, fans will finally be able to stream the entire nine-part saga in one place. Rediscover (or discover, we don’t judge!) the magic of the Star Wars trilogies, and journey from the sands of Tatooine, to the forests of Endor to crimson salt of Crait with a perfect movie marathon. Put on your best Star Wars apparel and get streaming!

Disney Gallery: The Mandalorian
The latest series hitting Disney+ today goes behind the scenes of Lucasfilm’s hit live-action series The Mandalorian. The eight-episode documentary series—which will be released weekly every Friday after its initial premiere—will dive into the astonishing production, its use of groundbreaking technology, music, the show’s practical models (which yes, includes The Child!) and will feature roundtable discussions with the show’s creator (and Disney Legend) Jon Favreau. The premiere episode “Directing” takes viewers into the filmmaking process of The Mandalorian as the directors speak of their individual journeys on the show.

Star Wars: The Clone Wars Final Season
All good things must come to an end; and trust us when we say the final season of The Clone Wars has been such a magnificent end. For seven seasons, Dave Filoni and Lucasfilm Animation have delivered emotionally rich stories in tandem with stunning animation, and today you can watch the series finale on Disney+. And get ready—if you’re anything like us, be sure to keep some tissues handy.

Our Star Wars Stories
Created by Lucasfilm and StarWars.com, Our Star Wars Stories is an original digital series hosted by Jordan Hembrough that highlights fans across the Star Wars community with touching stories on how a galaxy far, far away has inspired them. Now in its second season, you can find the show here.

Looking for even more Star Wars to watch? Punch it to our everything Star Wars on Disney+ roundup here.

To Read:

Star Wars: Queen’s Shadow written by E.K. Johnston
We know Queen Amidala and we know Senator Padmé, but do you her journey in between? Written by the No. 1 New York Times best-selling author of Ahsoka, Queen’s Shadow follows Padmé as she steps down from her position as Queen of Naboo. But, when the newly elected queen asks Padmé to become Naboo’s representative in the Galactic Senate, Padmé must quickly learn how to navigate through the treacherous politics of the Senate. Now, prepare your thunderous applause as we tell you that you can receive a free eBook of E.K. Johnston’s Queen’s Shadow now through May 8! Click here for details and an exclusive excerpt of Queen’s Shadow.

Star Wars Alphabet Squadron written by Alexander Freed
Veering from politics to warfare, add Star Wars Alphabet Squadron to your intergalactic reading list! The novel is the first of a new trilogy—the second novel is due out in June of this year. Set after Star Wars: Return of the Jedi, this Alphabet Squadron tells the story of a scrappy team of five pilots and starfighters tasked by New Republic general Hera Syndulla (you may recognize Hera from Star Wars Rebels!) to track down the mysterious Shadow Wing, a lethal force of TIE fighters. Alphabet Squadron is also the first book of the brand-new Star Wars video series The Star Wars Show Book Club, where you can read along and tune in for some exciting discussion and guest stars!

I Am a Padawan written by Ashley Eckstein and Illustrated by Shane Clester
If you’re anything like us, you don’t want The Clone Wars to end! Check out I Am a Padawan, written by Ashley Eckstein, who provides the voice of Ahsoka. The Little Golden Book tells of Ahsoka’s time as a Jedi, recounting the lessons we’ve seen her learn throughout The Clone Wars. From lessons of failure, friendship and hope, I Am a Padawan is a perfect way to introduce the Force to your own little Padawan!

Darth Vader No. 1 written by Kieron Gillen with art by Adi Granov and Salvador Larroca
Comics have been a part of Star Wars since the beginning—with the first Star Wars Marvel comic being published in 1977. It’s only appropriate, then, that we include an essential comic for any Star Wars fan. Published in 2015, Darth Vader reestablished Star Wars and Marvel comics and become the first ongoing series following the popular villain. The 25-issue comic series explored life after Star Wars: A New Hope and even introduced the fan-favorite rogue archaeologist Doctor Aphra.

For even more stellar reads, click here!

To Play:

LEGO® Star Wars™ A-wing Starfighter™
Are you an aspiring rebel pilot? If so, we found the collectible you’re looking for: LEGO’s brand-new A-wing Starfighter from Star Wars: Return of the Jedi. With over a thousand pieces, a removable cockpit and laser cannons, this exciting collectible is sure to bring out the kid in anyone. D23 Members can enter for the chance to win the Starfighter here.

Disney Emoji Blitz
Disney Emoji Blitz is celebrating Star Wars Day with three out-of-this world opportunities to play. Starting with their Star Wars Darth Vader Villain Event—ending May 4—players can collect items that can help them defeat Vader himself and have a chance at winning Luke, Leia, Chewbacca, R2-D2 or Han Solo emojis. And, all through May, players can collect themed tokens towards rewards like Rey, BB-8 and Finn emojis. And last but not least, is the Star Wars Challenge—open May 21 through 25—to earn in-game prizes. You can download Disney Emoji Blitz at the App Store and on Google Play!

Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order
When it comes to Star Wars video games, Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order is a must-play. The game tells an original story about Padawan Cal Kestis, who survived Order 66—an order executed during Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith—and now must embark on an epic journey in his hopes to rebuild the Jedi Order. It perfectly marries expansive story-telling with thrilling gameplay. Currently, players can even receive a free content update—which includes new cosmetics for Cal and BD-1 and new gameplay modes—for the game here.

Disney Magic Kingdoms
The many worlds of Disney collide with Disney Magic Kingdoms, and for a limited time, players can incorporate some special Star Wars amenities to their own kingdoms. On Star Wars Day, get a free Star Wars Legendary Chest featuring characters, floats, decorations, and more. And from now until May 8, play a limited-time Star Wars Tapper event to collect items for a chance to unlock the new Stormtrooper Helmet Stand. Download now at the App Store and on Google Play!

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Week

May 4, 2020May 4, 2020

By Zach Johnson

There’s no better way to celebrate Star Wars Day than by watching some old and new favorites! In addition to making Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker available to stream two months early (thus completing the Skywalker Saga), Disney+ will be debuting the first episode of Disney Gallery: The Mandalorian just as we say goodbye to Star Wars: The Clone Wars… forever! Later in the week, Hulu will bring us down to Earth—literally—when a team of aliens crash-lands on our planet in the original animated series Solar Opposites. Also this week, the season finale of The Conners will air on ABC and a new episode of the Disney+ docuseries Inside Disney will go behind the scenes of The Walt Disney Company.

Disney Gallery: The Mandalorian—Monday, May 4, on Disney+
The eight-episode documentary series pulls back the curtain on The Mandalorian. Each chapter explores a different aspect of the first live-action Star Wars television series through interviews, behind the scenes footage, and roundtable conversations hosted by Disney Legend Jon Favreau. The premiere episode, “Directing,” arrives on May the 4th and features the filmmakers sharing their individual journeys on the way to the director’s chair.

Star Wars: The Clone Wars—Monday, May 4, on Disney+
It’s all been leading up to this. After 12 years and seven seasons, the beloved animated series concludes with “Victory and Death,” available to stream on Star Wars Day. The exciting finale explores the events leading up to Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith, with the entire Grand Army of the Republic ordered to hunt down and destroy all the Jedi Knights.

The Conners—Tuesday, May 5, at 8 p.m. ET on ABC
In the season two finale, Darlene (Sara Gilbert) and Ben (Jay R. Ferguson) go apartment hunting as they take on the next step in building a life together. Jackie (Laurie Metcalf) accompanies Becky (Lecy Goranson) on a road trip to Mexico to introduce her daughter to her father for the first time. And Dan (John Goodman) reluctantly shares his financial issues with Louise (Katey Sagal) as he struggles with the pending foreclosure of the house.

Disney Insider—Friday, May 8, on Disney+
In the fifth episode of the Disney+ Original, runDisney plans a marathon through the Walt Disney World Resort that puts a smile on every racer’s face. Then, meet the team behind the new interactive game Disney Sorcere’s Arena, which lets fans play as one of more than 100 Disney and Pixar characters. Finally, discover how the Walt Disney Archives is marking its 50th anniversary by placing 400 iconic props, costumes, and original artwork on display.

Solar Opposites—Friday, May 8, on Hulu
Co-created by Justin Roiland and Mike McMahan (of Rick & Morty fame), Solar Opposites is a Hulu Original series that centers around a team of four aliens who escape their exploding home world only to crash land into a move-in ready home in suburban America. They are evenly split on whether Earth is awful or awesome. While Korvo (voice of Justin Roiland) and Yumyulack (voice of Sean Giambrone) only see pollution, consumerism, and human frailty, Terry (voice of Thomas Middleditch) and Jesse (voice of Mary Mack) love everything about humankind—from TV to junk food! Their mission: protect the Pupa, a living super computer that will one day evolve into its true form, consume them, and terraform Earth. All eight episodes of Solar Opposites will be available to stream at launch.

The Lion King on Broadway Inspires New Instagram Filter—Plus More in News Briefs

May 1, 2020

By Courtney Potter

Simba-fy Your Instagram Stories with New Disney’s The Lion King Filter

Looking for a cool new way to spruce up all those Instagram stories you’ve been creating lately? (C’mon, don’t be shy; we like to give ourselves some dog ears or neon-colored glasses too.) Then look no further than a brand-new filter, courtesy our pals at Disney Theatrical Productions.

Starting earlier this week, Instagram users can now access filters inspired by Disney’s The Lion King, the long-running, Tony® Award-winning musical based on the hit animated film. Users will be able to “wear” the iconic character masks of Simba and Nala, recreated exactly from director/designer Julie Taymor’s original Tony-winning designs through Augmented Reality technology. The free filter can also be found by searching “Simba and Nala” in the “browse effect” search tool within Instagram.

In case you need a refresher course on how to use an Instagram filter: Use the camera to focus on a user’s face; Simba’s filter will appear. Tap the user’s face once to switch to Nala’s filter. Bring a friend into focus with another user and both filters will appear!

And when using both filters, tap the screen to switch from one user to another.

It’s the “Circle of Life” for your social media, and we’re (as the kids say) “here for it”…

Disney Introduces Cloth Face Masks—Plus Donations for Those in Need

In line with recent recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control regarding wearing cloth face coverings in public, Disney has just announced a new line of non-medical, reusable cloth face masks in the U.S. featuring favorite Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars characters.

The cloth face masks come in small, medium, and large sizes and in a wide variety of prints highlighting a range of fan-favorite characters—including Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse; Anna and Elsa from Frozen; Woody and Buzz Lightyear from the Toy Story franchise; The Avengers; the Child—affectionately known as Baby Yoda—from Disney+’s The Mandalorian; and many more. Disney’s cloth face masks are available for pre-order now in packs of four on shopDisney in the U.S., and are estimated to ship in June. These masks align with the FDA’s latest recommendations on non-surgical, non-industrial grade face masks.

Additionally, Disney is donating one million cloth face masks for children and families in underserved and vulnerable communities across the U.S.—and they’ll be distributed by MedShare, an Atlanta-based humanitarian aid organization that collects and distributes surplus medical supplies and equipment. Disney will also donate all profits from the sales in the U.S. of Disney’s cloth face masks to MedShare, up to $1 million, now through September 30.

To purchase—or for more information, including fitting guidelines—head over to visit our friends at shopDisney.com.

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Weekend

In our continued quest to bring you all things Disney (read: all things awesome) to occupy your days, take a gander at our latest rundown of the coolest episodes and films to watch on your TV (or streaming device of choice) this weekend. A new ep of DuckTales? Check. Iconic fairy tale/comedy The Princess Bride joining the ranks of Disney+? Yes indeedy. Read our rundown by clicking here.

ABC Honors 2020 High School Seniors with #GraduateTogether Special

Get ready to fete your favorite graduating senior this May 16 when ABC—along with CBS, NBC, and FOX—airs a brand-new, commercial-free multimedia event in their honor. XQ Institute, The LeBron James Family Foundation, and The Entertainment Industry Foundation are joining forces to pay special tribute to the Class of 2020 with Graduate Together: America Honors the High School Class of 2020… featuring the likes of LeBron James, Bad Bunny, the Jonas Brothers, Ben Platt, Megan Rapinoe, Yara Shahidi, Lena Waithe, Pharrell Williams, Malala Yousafzai, and many, many more! The special will also air across a host of entertainment, social media, and streaming platforms, including Complex Networks, Facebook App, Instagram, PeopleTV, Snapchat, TikTok, and YouTube—creating an incredible and unique #GraduateTogether experience for each of their audiences.

Curated by high school students and educators throughout the country, with the support of the American Federation of Teachers, the broadcast will include a collection of commencement addresses, celebrity performances, and inspirational vignettes. Plus, #GraduateTogether is inviting students, educators, and families to submit their own videos and photos online for consideration to be included in the telecast. But that’s not all: Famed artist JR and his global participatory art project, Inside Out, will invite high school students everywhere to share their portraits in celebration of being part of the graduating Class of 2020.

So mark your calendars for Saturday, May 16, at 8 p.m. ET/PT, on ABC—and get ready for a little pomp-and-circumstance fun!

Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker Debuting Early on Disney+

Awesome news from the world of Disney+: The final chapter of the Skywalker saga, Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker, will begin streaming two months early, in honor of May the 4th (known by fans around the galaxy as Star Wars Day).

For the first time ever, fans will be able to stream the complete Skywalker saga all in one place. Disney Legend George Lucas’ groundbreaking film Star Wars: A New Hope in 1977 made way for an incredible nine-part saga, and all nine will be available as part of Disney+’s extensive collection of Star Wars movies and series—including The Mandalorian and Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.

Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker will join Disney+’s May the 4th lineup alongside the premiere of the docuseries Disney Gallery: The Mandalorian and the series finale of the award-winning Star Wars: The Clone Wars. So don your best Star Wars t-shirt (or if you’re feeling really motivated, break out that Halloween or con costume), grab a spot on the couch, and enjoy!

Disney+’s Live-Action Cassian Andor Series Adds Cast

Speaking of the Star Wars galaxy, more news out of Disney+ (by way of the good folks at StarWars.com) concerns its upcoming live-action series showcasing the adventures of Cassian Andor. Joining previously announced cast members Diego Luna (returning as Andor) and Alan Tudyk (once again, the voice of K-2SO) are Genevieve O’Reilly—who will reprise her role as Mon Mothma—and new co-stars Denise Gough (Angels in America) and Kyle Soller (Anna Karenina)… as well as Stellan Skarsgard (Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End). Tony Gilroy, who co-wrote Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, will write, direct, and serve as showrunner for the series, which takes place five years before the events of the film.

This second-live action Star Wars series from Lucasfilm (following The Mandalorian) will follow Andor’s shenanigans as a Rebel spy during the formative years of the Rebellion. Look for more info—including the series’ release date—in the coming months.

Celebrate Mother’s Day with Another Disney Family Singalong on ABC

The Disney Family Singalong delighted audiences young and young-at-heart on April 16 on ABC… and just this week comes news that another special in the works—this time celebrating Mother’s Day! The Disney Family Singalong: Volume II will air on Sunday, May 10, followed by an all-new episode of American Idol. For more info on what you can expect, click here.

New Trailer for Final Season of Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.

Another big event coming to ABC is the premiere of the seventh and final season of Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.—and just this week, they released an intriguing new trailer. Check it out, above…

The story picks up immediately after season six, with the agents traveling to 1931 New York City. Their final mission? To change the past to save the future. With the new Zephyr set to time-jump at any moment, the team must hurry to discover what happened. And if S.H.I.E.L.D. fails, it would mean disaster for the past, present, and future of the world. As you can see in the trailer, the Chronicoms will stop at nothing to steal the faces they need. It’s a race against time for S.H.I.E.L.D. to stop them and save… Hydra? Color us intrigued!

Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. stars Clark Gregg as Agent Phil Coulson; Disney Legend Ming-Na Wen as Agent Melinda May; Chloe Bennet as Daisy Johnson; Elizabeth Henstridge as Agent Jemma Simmons; Iain De Caestecker as Agent Leopold Fitz; Henry Simmons as Director Alphonso “Mack” MacKenzie; Natalia Cordova-Buckley as Elena “Yo-Yo” Rodriguez; and Jeff Ward as Deke Shaw. And this season, Enver Gjokaj will be reprising his role as Daniel Sousa from Marvel’s Agent Carter.

Look for the return of Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. beginning Wednesday, May 27, at 10 p.m. ET/PT (9 p.m. CT) only on ABC!

Release Your Inner Toy with a (Virtual) Ride on Slinky Dog Dash

We’re so thankful the folks over at #DisneyMagicMoments have released another epic first-person attraction video—and this time, you’ll be able to live your best toy-sized life!

Get ready to explore Andy’s backyard on the ever-so-fun Slinky Dog Dash, located inside Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. In case you hadn’t yet heard the attraction’s clever backstory: Andy built this Dash & Dodge Mega Coaster in his backyard, then attached his beloved Slinky Dog for extra fun. As an “honorary toy,” riders sit inside Slink’s coils and zip around Toy Story Land in the first multi-launch coaster in Disney history!

And in this special “Ride & Learn” clip, we’ll see some fun facts about the coaster and Toy Story Land itself. For your “playing-along-at-home” pleasure, bonus trivia points for spotting Rex’s original toybox, or for figuring out how big Andy’s footprint actually is…

Every Way to Bring Disney Magic to Your Video Calls

May 1, 2020May 8, 2020

By Beth Deitchman

Are you feeling a little bit like Rapunzel right about now? Do you wish you could travel to an exotic locale? Well, how about Zootopia, or Monstropolis, or Hoth? Thanks to a wide array of backgrounds from Disney Channel, Walt Disney Animation Studios, National Geographic, and more, you can add excitement—not to mention Disney Magic Moments—to video calls with friends and family and represent the many worlds of Disney. Here’s a selection of some of our favorites, along with info about where you can discover even more.

DISNEY CHANNEL

What’s the sitch? Well, our friends at Disney Channel have created a collection of throwback backgrounds inspired by favorite shows such as The Proud Family, Wizards of Waverly Place, and Jonas. Place yourself in the middle of an adventure with Kim and Ron, imagine you’ve got the limo out front with Hannah Montana, or dive into Scrooge McDuck’s money pit, to name some of the flashback fun.

Kim Possible

Hannah Montana

DuckTales

You can also represent all of your current D faves! Step into the world of Descendants 3, bring Camp Kikiwaka to your desktop, or pal around with Mickey and Pluto.

Descendants 3

BUNK’D

Mickey Mouse Mixed-Up Adventures

Click here to download all of these backgrounds and more at DisneyMagicMoments.com.

WALT DISNEY ANIMATION STUDIOS

Stunning backgrounds from Disney Animation will let you chat with family and friends from San Fransokyo or go to a virtual party at Tiana’s Palace (though we’re afraid you’ll have to make your own beignets).

Big Hero 6

The Princess and the Frog

Download these backgrounds here, where you’ll also find picturesque virtual locales from Tangled, Moana, Ralph Breaks the Internet, and Zootopia.

STAR WARS

The force is strong in these video call backgrounds featuring iconic Star Wars settings from the Millennium Falcon and Death Star to Tatooine and Jakku.

Hoth

Cloud City

Millennium Falcon hall

Tatooine

Download these and more out-of-this-galaxy backgrounds here.

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC

Nat Geo photographers have captured breathtaking images that will bring the beauty of the natural world to your next video conference.

Sequoia National Park, California

Loango National Park, Gabon, Africa

These spectacular photos and more are available for download at NationalGeographic.com.

MARVEL

If you want to ensure all your video calls are worthy, Marvel has assembled a host of backgrounds available for download.

Avengers Headquarters and Wakanda are among the selection you’ll find here on Marvel.com.

Looking for a few more purr-fect options? Head over to this post on Marvel.com for Goose, Baby Groot, Spider-Man, and even Thanos.

PIXAR

Find your virtual happy place and brighten up your video calls with backgrounds inspired by the Toy Story movies, Up, Inside Out, and more, available for download on the Disney Magic Moments site.

Toy Story

For fans of Disney and Pixar’s Onward, journey over to DisneyMagicMoments.com and downloadeth a lovely look New Mushroomton or a background featuring Barley’s beloved van, Guinevere.

DISNEY PARKS

Bring some of your favorite locations from Disney Parks around the world to your video calls with this collection, available on the Disney Parks Blog.

Disneyland Resort

Epcot

FREEFORM

Meetings are much better from the Scarlet fashion closet. Four fabulous backgrounds inspired by The Bold Type are available on Freeform.com, along with selections for fans of grown-ish, Good Trouble, Siren, Motherland: Fort Salem, and Everything’s Gonna Be Okay.

DISNEY PRINCESSES

Whether you want to be part of Ariel’s world or journey to a whole new world, these Disney Princess-inspired backgrounds will make every video call feel like a fairy tale. Visit DisneyMagicMoments.com now for downloadable backgrounds inspired by Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Sleeping Beauty, Brave, Beauty and the Beast, Tangled, Moana, Pocahontas, and The Princess and the Frog.

The Little Mermaid

Beauty and the Beast

ABC

From The Bachelor’s iconic mansion to the American Idol judge’s table, there are a variety of ways to immerse yourself in the worlds of your favorite ABC series. The network has shared a wide variety of backgrounds, including images inspired by Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., The Conners, and Dancing with the Stars, on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. They’re available for download now.

The Bachelor

Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.

UPDATED: The Disney Family Singalong: Volume II Brings Disney Magic to Mother’s Day

May 1, 2020May 6, 2020

By the D23 Team

UPDATED, May 6:

It’s almost time to play the music and light the lights! ABC has added even more celebrity guests to its star-studded lineup. Adding to the list of fan favorites appearing in the special are Disney Legend Christina Aguilera, John Legend, Jennifer Hudson Tituss Burgess, Sabrina Carpenter, Lang Lang, Katy Perry, and many more surprise performances. Plus, Kermit, Miss Piggy, and the rest of “The Muppets” will open the show, and Dancing with the Stars professional dancers Lindsay Arnold, Alan Bersten, Witney Carson, Val Chmerkovskiy, Jenna Johnson, Sasha Farber, and Emma Slater team up for an outstanding remote ensemble routine to “Zero to Hero” with Keke Palmer.

The Muppets will raise the curtain on the show, followed by a vocal warmup with Tituss Burgess, and the updated roster of performances will include the following:

“A Whole New World”—Idina Menzel and Ben Platt
“Almost There”—Chloe x Halle and Anika Noni Rose
“Baby Mine”—Katy Perry
“Beauty and the Beast” – John Legend and Jennifer Hudson
“Hakuna Matata”—Seth Rogen and Billy Eichner feat. Donald Glover and Walter Russell III
“Part of Your World”—Halsey
“Poor Unfortunate Souls”—Rebel Wilson
“Remember Me”—Miguel feat. Christina Aguilera
“Step in Time” and “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious”—Derek Hough, Julianne Hough, and Hayley Erbert
“Try Everything”—Shakira
“When I Am Older”—Josh Gad
“You’ll Be in My Heart”—Disney on Broadway stars Merle Dandridge, Heather Headley, Adam Jacobs, Caissie Levy, Kara Lindsay, Kevin Massey, and Josh Strickland
“Your Mother and Mine”—Sabrina Carpenter feat. Lang Lang
“Zero to Hero”—Keke Palmer feat. Dancing with the Stars Pros Lindsay Arnold, Alan Bersten, Witney Carson, Val Chmerkovskiy, Jenna Johnson, Sasha Farber, and Emma Slater

… and more surprise performances!

Nearly 13 million people across the nation were united in song by The Disney Family Singalong, a Disney Magic Moment celebrating family and music that aired Thursday, April 16, on ABC. Today, ABC announced an enchanting reprise, The Disney Family Singalong: Volume II, on Sunday, May 10 (7–8 p.m. EDT), with Ryan Seacrest returning to host and all-new star-studded performances, inventive at-home choreography, and even more Disney magic. The animated Mickey also returns to guide the on-screen lyrics, allowing audiences, families, roommates, and loved ones to follow along in perfect harmony with their favorite celebrities as they sing beloved Disney melodies. Celebrity guests and performance details will be announced soon.

The nationwide singalong will air on Mother’s Day as part of ABC’s Sunday Night programming block, followed by an all-new remote episode of American Idol airing at 8 p.m. EDT. The Disney Family Singalong: Volume II will then be available to stream on Disney+ in the days that follow—stay tuned for a future announcement.

The special will also raise awareness about Feeding America’s vast network and resources for people in the country who are finding themselves in unfamiliar circumstances and facing hunger for the first time due to COVID-19. “The Disney Family Singalong was a beautiful event that united millions of households across the country, filling our hearts with joy and song, and also providing much-needed nourishment to fill the bellies of our neighbors facing hunger,” said Claire Babineaux-Fontenot, CEO of Feeding America. “An incredible collaborator for nearly a decade, The Walt Disney Company has provided grant funding for network food banks, developed public service announcements, and mobilized the public to help provide the equivalent of almost 100 million meals to children and families. We cannot thank Disney enough for their enduring support.” Families and vulnerable members of the community who need help can visit FeedingAmerica.org/FeedTheLove to learn more about Feeding America’s COVID-19 response and how to locate local food banks for help.

Stay tuned to D23.com for future announcements about this magical night!