Disney Junior Delivers More Muppet Babies—Plus More in News Briefs

By Courtney Potter

Go back to the playroom with another season of the Emmy® Award-winning animated series, and make sure you’re up to date on all things Marvel and Comic-Con… Read more, along with other news from around Disney, in this week’s news briefs!

Disney Junior’s Muppet Babies Renewed for Third Season

They’re Muppet Babies and—as the theme song says—they make their dreams come true. Now, they’re making our dreams come true by coming back for a third season on Disney Junior!

Ahead of its official second-season debut on Friday, August 9, at 8:30 a.m. (with a special preview on DisneyNOW on Friday, August 2), the good folks at Disney Junior announced that the Emmy® Award-winning series will be returning for a third season. The show—which chronicles the hilarious playroom antics of a young Kermit the Frog, Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Gonzo, Animal, and new-to-the-Muppets-gang Summer Penguin—currently ranks as Disney Channel’s No. 1 series among kids ages 2 to 8.

Season Two of Muppet Babies will see even more beloved Muppets make their way to the playroom for all-new adventures… including brother and sister duo Scooter and Skeeter; fuzzy, funny Sweetums; and the legendary Swedish Chef, to name but a few. Other special guest appearances include Rizzo the Rat’s popstar brother, Vinny, and Mr. Manny—who comes to fill in for Miss Nanny when she goes out for the day.

Wanna see these adorable Muppet kidlets in person this winter? Muppet Babies will be featured in the all-new Disney Junior Holiday Party! On Tour, debuting Friday, November 1, with several stops at venues across the country. Visit DisneyJuniorTour.com for more info.

Save the Date!
Be sure to mark these upcoming Disney events on your calendar:

D23 and Walt Disney Archives
July 26, 2019
D23 Member Mixer—Seattle
August 23-25, 2019
D23 Expo 2019
September 9, 2019
The Official Walt Disney Studios Tour—Presented by D23
January 17, 2020
Get VIP Tickets to Disney’s Frozen The Hit Broadway Musical
Parks
August 16, 20, 23, 27, 30; September 2, 6, 8, 10, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 27, 29; October 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24, 25, 27, 29, 31, 2019
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom park
August 29, 2019
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Opening at and Walt Disney World Resort
August 29—November 23, 2019, 2019
November 8, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21, 22, 24; December 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22, 2019
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom park
2019 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
September 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 29, 2019; October 1, 3, 6, 8, 10, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 27, 29, 31, 2019
Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party at Disney California Adventure park
2019 Epcot International Festival of the Holidays
November 8, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21, 22, 24, 2019; December 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22, 2019
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom park
November 29—December 30, 2019, 2019
2019 Epcot International Festival of the Holidays
Studios
October 18, 2019
Maleficent: Mistress of Evil opens in U.S. theaters
November 22, 2019
Frozen 2 opens in U.S. theaters
December 20, 2019
Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker opens in U.S. theaters
Television
August 2, 2019
Descendants 3 premieres on Disney Channel and DisneyNOW (8 p.m. EDT/PDT).
August 9, 2019
Muppet Babies kicks off season two on Disney Channel (8:30 a.m. EDT/PDT)

All the Marvel News You’ve Just Gotta Know from San Diego Comic-Con

Even if you were vacationing in a tropical, far-flung locale these last few weeks (and if you were, we’re jealous!), you probably heard that A) San Diego Comic-Con just thrilled hundreds of thousands of pop culture fans for three full days, and B) Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige announced a veritable plethora of earth-shattering Marvel Cinematic Universe news. Read up on all things MCU right here at D23.com!

The Curse of Molly McGee

Disney Channel Announces The Curse of Molly McGee

Disneyland park may have “999 happy haunts,” but Disney Channel will soon have a haunt of their own… only this time, he’s on the grumpy side. Just this week, the channel announced The Curse of Molly McGee—a brand-new animated series from Emmy® Award-winners Bill Motz and Bob Roth (LEGO Star Wars: The Freemaker Adventures) and fellow Emmy winner Steve Loter (Kim Possible). This sure-to-be-hilarious “buddy comedy” follows Molly, a bubbly tween who lives to make the world a better place, and Scratch, whose joy comes from, well, spreading misery… When one of Scratch’s spells backfires, he finds himself forever cursed in Molly’s presence. Look for more info on this new series soon!

But that’s not the only news out of Disney Television Animation this week: The studio also just added a slew of world-class talent—including animation creators and artists Bruce Smith (The Proud Family), Kate Kondell (The Pirate Fairy), Stevie Wermers and Kevin Deters (Prep & Landing), Amy Higgins (Star vs. The Forces of Evil), Steve Marmel (The Fairly OddParents), and many more—to its already fabulous roster. We can’t wait to hear about all the new animated content to come.

Soarin: Fantastic Flight

Soaring: Fantastic Flight Now Open at Tokyo DisneySea

There’s a brand-new attraction at Tokyo DisneySea, and it’s sure to put some air under your proverbial wings! Based on the popular attraction Soarin’ Around the World, Soaring: Fantastic Flight features all-new scenes and visuals for an incredible experience exclusive to Tokyo Disney Resort… Guests on Soaring: Fantastic Flight embark on a journey over famous landscapes around the world, with the breezes and scents to match each scene. Rika Kihira, a Japanese professional figure skater who knows what it’s like to “soar” in real life, was on hand to help Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse open the new attraction.

Soaring: Fantastic Flight also features the breathtaking Museum of Fantastic Flight, nestled in the hills of Mediterranean Harbor (one of the beautiful ports at Tokyo DisneySea), amidst the backdrop of an old-world Italian village. Dedicated to humankind’s enduring dream of flying, the museum celebrates Camellia Falco—a visionary innovator in the fledgling field of aviation—with a special retrospective of her life.

Also now open at the Hangar Stage in Lost River Delta is the brand-new Song of Mirage show, which features Mickey Mouse and his pals on an adventure to discover the Rio Dorado (that’s Spanish for “golden river”) and its legendary city of gold.

Should you be lucky enough to be traveling to the Tokyo Disneyland Resort soon, don’t miss these amazing new additions!

The Rocketeer Animated Series—Big Casting News!

 We’re huge fans of The Rocketeer ’round these parts… so when we heard that Disney Junior would be premiering an animated series based on the 1991 film, we were happily gobsmacked! And just last week—at the Disney Television Animation panel on the first day of San Diego Comic-Con—some very special members of the show’s voice cast were announced. See the cool folks we’re alluding to by clicking here.

Sofia Carson Roars into the Pride Lands with Spanish-Language “Circle of Life”

If you’re up on all things The Lion King—and if you read D23.com with any regularity, we know you are!—you’ll remember that one of the film’s stars, multi-hyphenate Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, curated a very cool album inspired by the film called The Lion King: The Gift. And that’s on top of the film’s official soundtrack, which features tunes including “Hakuna Matata” sung by Seth Rogen as Pumbaa, Billy Eichner as Timon, and Donald Glover as Simba.

Well, this embarrassment of musical riches continues: For the film’s original soundtrack for Latin America, there’s a brand-new track sung by none other than Descendants star Sofia Carson—and it was just released to the public today! Take a look and listen to “El Ciclo Sin Fin” (yes, it’s a Spanish-language version of “Circle of Life”) by checking out the clip, above. And congrats to Sofia for joining the Lion King “familia”!

Descendants

Kick It Up with DescenDANCE Party at Disney Springs

 Speaking of Descendants, the “trequel” of the popular Disney Channel Original Movie series debuts in just a few days… and our pals at Walt Disney World Resort have announced a special event to celebrate all things VK (that’s “villain kids,” dontcha know). The Disney DescenDANCE Party will begin rocking the Marketplace Stage at Disney Springs this Friday, July 26—and it’ll make you feel “Rotten to the Core” (in a good way!) through August 11.

Guests at the Disney DescenDANCE Party can boogie down to some wickedly good beats; snap and share pics at several cool photo ops; and even catch some on-screen shout-outs from stars of the movie! And guess what? In case you can’t make it to Disney Springs before August 11, you have even more time to rock out with the VKs when the dance party takes over the stage at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, beginning August 16.

And don’t forget: Descendants 3 premieres on Friday, August 2, at 8 p.m.—only on Disney Channel!

Bust a Move, Because ABC’s Hit Shows Are Coming to D23 Expo 2019

By D23 Team

Are you ready to get your feet tapping and your legs moving at D23 Expo 2019? Well, we certainly hope you are, because ABC is bringing their biggest stars of comedy, action, and dance competition to Anaheim this August.

You can be among the first to learn the secrets of what lies ahead on ABC’s hit series Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., take a peek behind the curtain of Dancing with the Stars’ Disney Night, and travel to the “ish” universe with black-ish.

Take a look at all the exciting panels and presentations ABC is bringing to D23 Expo, and who you have a chance of meeting!

Dancing with the Stars and Disney!
Friday, August 23, 10 a.m., D23 Expo Arena
Good Morning America’s Ginger Zee hosts a behind-the-scenes peek into the most magical night in the ballroom: Disney Night! Join Zee, show host Tom Bergeron, Mirrorball champions Rashad Jennings and Jordan Fisher, and Dancing with the Stars executive producer Andrew Llinares for a celebration of the Dancing with the Stars and Disney connection. There may even be a hint at what’s to come on Dancing with the Stars 2019 this fall on ABC.

Agents of Shield

Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.
Friday, August 23, 3 p.m., D23 Expo Arena
Stars and executive producers from ABC’s Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. come together to honor the past six seasons of the show while looking forward to the forthcoming thrilling conclusion of the series in summer 2020. Executive producer and head of Marvel Television, Jeph Loeb, will host the presentation with cast members Clark Gregg and Jeff Ward as well as executive producers Jed Whedon, Maurissa Tancharoen, and Jeff Bell.

grown-ish

The “ish” Universe: black-ish, grown-ish and mixed-ish
Saturday, August 24, 3 p.m., D23 Expo Arena
Headlined by Anthony Anderson, Tracee Ellis Ross, Yara Shahidi, and Tika Sumpter, the stars from ABC’s black-ish, Freeform’s grown-ish, and ABC’s newest spinoff mixed-ish come together to highlight the expanding “ish” universe. Fans won’t want to miss this star-studded panel where anything could happen!

Following is the full schedule* of stars making special appearances in the Walt Disney Television booth throughout the weekend:

Friday, August 23
2–3 p.m.
Dancing with the Stars stars past and present Ginger Zee, Carrie Ann Inaba, Tom Bergeron, Rashad Jennings, and Jordan Fisher

5–6 p.m.
Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. stars Clark Gregg, Ming-Na Wen, Chloe Bennet, Elizabeth Henstridge, and Jeff Ward, and executive producers Jed Whedon, Maurissa Tancharoen, Jeff Bell, and Jeph Loeb

grown-ish

Saturday, August 24
1–2:30 p.m.
black-ish, grown-ish, and mixed-ish stars to be announced.

*Schedule and participants subject to change.

Single-day tickets for Friday and Sunday of D23 Expo 2019 are available for $89 for one-day adult admission and $69 for children 3-9. Gold Members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club can purchase tickets for $79 for a one-day adult admission and $59 for children 3-9. Single-day Saturday tickets and three-day passes are sold out. For more information on tickets and D23 Expo 2019, visit www.D23Expo.com.

Be a Part of the First-Ever Official D23 Expo Cosplay Photo Shoots

by Karina Schink

Cosplayers assemble!

Did we get your attention?

Whether you’re Disneybounding, or going head-to-toe as your favorite Disney, Star Wars, Marvel, or Pixar character (or dare we suggest a crossover?), we want to see your looks! And, better yet, we know you want to show them off.

This year at D23 Expo 2019, we’re excited to announce that D23 will host four Cosplay Photo Shoots* over the Expo weekend! All you need is your best look, and a ticket to D23 Expo 2019. Check out the full schedule below, join us at the fountain outside the Anaheim Convention Center, and make sure you’re dressed to the nines because all Expo attendees are welcome to participate!

 Friday, August 23
1 p.m.—Marvel Cosplay Photo Shoot

5:15 p.m.—Star Wars Cosplay Photo Shoot

Saturday, August 24
1:30 p.m.—Disney Heroes & Villains Cosplay Photo Shoot

Sunday, August 25
1:30 p.m.—Disney Parks & Princesses Cosplay Photo Shoot

 

*D23 Expo 2019 admission required

The Most Memorable Moments from San Diego Comic-Con 2019

By Jim Frye

San Diego Comic-Con celebrated its 50th year this past weekend, drawing fans from across the world with panels and events spotlighting TV, movies, comic books, and all aspects of pop culture. The brands of Disney—Marvel, Lucasfilm, ABC, FX, Fox, Disney Channel, and National Geographic—showed up in force, producing some of the biggest and most exciting moments of the convention. There’s no way to feature everything, but here’s just a sample of the excitement.

Walt Disney Television

Disney Comic-Con updates

ABC kicked off the action on Thursday, the first day of Comic-Con, with the all-star Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. panel, taking place in the 6,500-seat Hall H. Jeph Loeb, executive producer and Marvel’s head of Television, moderated the panel that included actors Clark Gregg, Ming-Na Wen, Chloe Bennet, Elizabeth Henstridge, Iain De Caestecker, Henry Simmons, Natalia Cordova-Buckley, and Jeff Ward, along with executive producers Maurissa Tancharoen, Jed Whedon, and Jeff Bell. The panel was a look back and a celebration of the show, featuring video clips showcasing some of the biggest and most memorable moments of the series. And even though the long-running series—Marvel’s longest, actually—is ending its run after the upcoming seventh season, the cast and producers promised an exciting ride and epic conclusion that fans will love.

Disney Comic-Con updates

ABC’s soon-to-premiere new drama Stumptown, staring Cobie Smulders, (who also portrays agent Maria Hill of S.H.I.E.L.D. for Marvel Studios) and based on a graphic novel about a bold private investigator in Portland, Oregon, also hosted a panel on Thursday, including cast members Smulders, Jake Johnson, Michael Ealy, Camryn Manheim, Tantoo Cardinal, Cole Sibus, and Adrian Martinez, with executive producer Jason Richman and Stumptown graphic novel author Greg Rucka.

Disney Comic-Con updates

But ABC wasn’t done! It also brought the cast and producers from shows The Rookie—with perennial fan-favorite Nathan Fillion and showrunner Alexi Hawley—and brand-new series Emergence, with stars Allison Tolman, Alexa Swinton, Owain Yeoman, Ashley Aufderheide, Robert Bailey Jr., Zabryna Guevara, Donald Faison and Clancy Brown, as well as executive producers Michele Fazekas and Tara Butters.

Disney Comic-Con updates

Thursday morning also saw the return of the DuckTales panel, its theme song woo-ooing loud-and-clear above the commotion of the convention! But in addition to cast members Paget Brewster (Della Duck), Bobby Moynihan (Louie Duck), Ben Schwartz (Dewey Duck), and Kate Micucci (Webby Vanderquack), fans were treated to a huge surprise appearance by Lin-Manuel Miranda, the  multi-talented Broadway sensation (and star of Mary Poppins Returns) who voices Gizmoduck/Fenton Crackshell. It caused enough of a ruckus to ruffle the most dignified duck’s feathers.

Fox and FX delivered laughs and chills in droves in San Diego with their panels and off-site activation events. The nearly impossible-to-get-into Bob’s Burgers panel (the line of wannabe-attendees stretched all the way down the waterfront behind the Convention Center!) shoveled out laughs by the barrel, with creator/executive producer Loren Bouchard and executive producer Nora Smith previewing the upcoming season, along with actors H. Jon Benjamin, Dan Mintz, John Roberts, Kristen Schaal, Larry Murphy, and Megan Mullaly.

Disney Comic-Con updates

After the Bob’s Burgers panel concluded, H. Jon Benjamin returned to the stage as the star-voice actor for the immediate next panel, Archer, FXX’s award-winning animated comedy series, now in its 10th season. After a sneak peek of a season 10 episode, fans were treated to a hilarious Q&A with the voice cast, including  Benjamin, Aisha Tyler, Jessica Walter, Chris Parnell, Judy Greer, Amber Nash, and Lucky Yates, plus executive producers Matt Thompson and Casey Willis.

Other popular shows spotlighted at Comic-Con, included Fox’s Family Guy and The Orville, both with executive producer Seth MacFarlane and cast.  And the intriguing documentary-style comedy series about vampires called What We Do in the Shadows on FX showed up for its first appearance.

In addition to the panels, major off-site activation experiences were created to promote these series. The Orville Experience offsite museum had props, costumes, models, and more. The Fox Fan Fair featured free carnival games, super-sized lawn games, an ice cream truck, and a hulking 70-foot ferris wheel, all themed to The Simpsons, Bob’s Burgers, and Family Guy. The massive FX Fearless Forum installation featured activations for It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Archer, and What We Do in the Shadows at a space adjacent to the Convention Center.

MARVEL

Heading into the weekend, all eyes were on Marvel, and the House of Ideas didn’t disappoint! The Saturday night unveiling of Marvel Studios’ next two years of films was the undisputed king of the con. Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige presided over the 90-minute extravaganza with special guests that included Angelina Jolie, Benedict Cumberbatch, Jeremy Renner, Chris Hemsworth, and Mahershala Ali. From films Thor: Love and Thunder and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, to Disney+ series WandaVision and The Falcon and The Winter Soldier—not to mention the surprise announcement of the film Blade!—Marvel Studios’ panel completely dominated Saturday night.

Disney Comic-Con updates

Immediately following the panel, Feige discussed one of the marquee announcements of the night—the new film Black Widow! “It’s a remarkably unique story,” he said. “People think they know everything there is to know about the Black Widow, but I promise you they do not.” The Black Widow herself, Scarlett Johansson, added, “Even when times are impossible and they [the Avengers] are facing the unface-able, she [Black Widow] has a certain sense of her own mortality and how fragile that is, and she’s accepted it. So she kind of laughs it off and takes it with a grain of salt—which grounds her.”

Elsewhere during the convention, Marvel publishing unveiled details about its Issue No. 1000, one of the biggest Marvel Comics projects ever assembled. Additionally, editors and writers from Marvel’s storied “bullpen,” including Marvel editor-in-chief C. B. Cebulski, also delivered panels on Spider-Man, what comes next for the X-Men after the senses-shattering revelations of the House of X and Powers of X, and a behind-the-scenes look at how a Marvel comic book is made.

Of course, this being the 80th anniversary of Marvel, a few celebrations marked the occasion (including D23’s Gold and Gold Family Member Mixer). In the world of Marvel Animation, Cort Lane (senior vice president, Animation and Family Entertainment), Kalia Ramirez (director, Family Entertainment, Development and Partnerships), writers Mark Hoffmeier (Spider-Man: The Animated Series) and Marty Isenberg (X-Men: The Animated Series), and voice actors Josh Keaton (Spectacular Spider-Man, Marvel’s Avengers Assemble) and Jennifer Hale (Wolverine and the X-Men, Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy) celebrated five decades of Marvel cartoons.

Mickey Mouse and D23

Disney Comic-Con updates

Speaking of D23, the Official Disney Fan Club boogied the night away at a party in honor of the 40th anniversary of the multiplatinum Mickey Mouse Disco album. Earlier that day, the grooves were flowing at the panel, “Mickey on Vinyl: D23 Celebrates the Mouse, the Music, and the Movement,” which took attendees on a funky trip through Mickey Mouse’s influence on pop culture.

Disney Comic-Con updates

The list goes on and on, with too many presentations and panels and events to mention, but we’ll end with this one. On Saturday, Marvel’s Avengers: Endgame directors Joe and Anthony Russo climbed aboard the IMDB boat, docked just behind the convention center, and kicked off the Marvel We Love You 3000 tour, celebrating the home release of Avengers: Endgame (now the BIGGEST box-office champion of all time!). The tour, featuring special guests, will hit several cities and culminate at D23 Expo 2019 in Anaheim—which means all D23 fans will get a chance to celebrate this amazing film, along with all the other worlds of Disney. It’s the largest gathering of Disney fans on the planet—we’ll see you there!

D23 Expo Marvel News You’ll Love 3,000

by D23 Expo Team

Today marks one month until D23 Expo 2019. That’s right, there’s just ONE month to go! Can you tell we can hardly wait?

Well, we’re excited (x 3000) to announce all of the awesome things Marvel is assembling at D23 Expo 2019!

Inside the Marvel Studios Pavilion on the show floor, you can step inside the action of the record-breaking Avengers: Endgame at a D23 Expo-exclusive video experience, and tour the costume gallery to see costumes worn by characters from the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Throughout the weekend, Marvel Studios will host panels with filmmakers and artists, as well as special talent signings inside the Pavilion. You can even test your knowledge of the Marvel Cinematic Universe with daily trivia games for prizes, proving you’ll do whatever it takes.

Showcasing brand-new experiences for guests around the world to enjoy for years to come, the Disney Parks’ “Imagining Tomorrow, Today” Pavilion will give you a unique look at Tony Stark’s latest plans to recruit guest to join the Avengers in a fully immersive areas filled with action and adventure in Hong Kong, Paris, and California.

The weekend is also filled with exciting Marvel film, television, animation, and comic book panels and stage events you can’t miss:

How to Draw the Marvel Way
Friday, August 23, 3:30 p.m. PT, and Saturday, August 24, 3 p.m. PT, Center Stage
Brian Crosby, Creative Director of Themed Entertainment for Marvel, takes you step by step through a creative tutorial on how to draw your favorite Marvel characters!

Marvel Animation’s Venom Invasion and a World Premiere!
Friday, August 23, 6 – 7 p.m. PT, Stage 28
Join Marvel Animation for an exciting panel full of sneak peeks, special guests, and big announcements, including scoop on fan-favorite series Marvel’s Spider-Man and the world premiere of the new Marvel Rising special Battle of the Bands!

The Walt Disney Studios Hall D23 Presentation
Saturday, August 24, 10 a.m. – noon, Hall D23
The Walt Disney Studios will present a behind-the-scenes look at its blockbuster collection of upcoming films, including a peek at exciting projects from Marvel Studios. As always, attendees will be treated to exclusive footage, special guest appearances, and more!

Marvel 80 Years

MARVEL COMICS: Marvel 80th Anniversary
Saturday, August 24, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. PT, Stage 28
Marvel Editor-in-Chief C.B. Cebulski and Executive Editor Tom Brevoort take you through the amazing, incredible, and uncanny history of Marvel Comics! Get the inside scoop on the House of Ideas—from Captain America to Captain Marvel! As part of Marvel’s 80th anniversary celebration this year, this commemorative panel looks back at the history of the Marvel Universe, honoring the iconic characters and timeless stories that have inspired fans all around the world. Marvel will continue celebrating this milestone with its characters and fans in exciting ways all year—from comics and games, to digital shows, toys, collectibles, and more.

9 Chilling Twilight Zone Tower of Terror Facts

By Jocelyn Buhlman

October 31, 1939: The date of the fateful night when five passengers from glamorous Hollywood took their one-way trip into the Twilight Zone. July 22, 1994: The date the Hollywood Tower Hotel reopened its doors for us at Disney Hollywood Studios—and reopened the mystery behind the hotel. And now? July 22, 20204 marks 30 years since we first made that thrilling drop on The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™, and we’ve been hooked ever since.

This, as you may recognize, is a list of nine facts about The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. We dive into the secrets of the famed Hollywood Tower Hotel and you might even take our own trip into… The Twilight Zone! Read on, if you dare:

1. Now Entering the Binge-Watching Zone
To accurately create our journey into the Twilight Zone, Disney Imagineers screened each of the 156 episodes of the classic series at least twice! Many episodes were screened three or four times and studied in regard to props, guest stars, settings, and music. To help craft that iconic preshow video, Imagineers observed Rod Serling’s opening and closing comments separately at least 10 times each to determine the most representative quotes and characteristic phrases used by Serling in his role as host of the show.

2. Unlocking the Door into the Fifth Dimension
During their tireless marathon of The Twilight Zone episodes, one thing stood out to the team—every week, Rod Serling told viewers that, with the key of imagination, one unlocks the door to another dimension–to the Fifth Dimension. The creative team behind the attraction decided it was time to go there! While Rod Serling could show us the fifth dimension on the television series, only this attraction could take us there.

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™

3. Influential Episodes
While The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is not inspired by one specific episode from the series, certain episodes did have a major impact on the attraction’s plot. For example, the episode “Little Girl Lost” inspired Imagineers to include the Fifth Dimension in the attraction—and maybe some more Easter eggs, if you listen closely in the Boiler Room. You can also physically watch part of a Twilight Zone episode during Rod Serling’s introduction of the attraction. The original footage of Serling was taken from the episode “It’s a Good Life,” but has now been transformed into the introduction for a new episode—one where you are the main character.

4. This is a “Lost” Twilight Zone Episode Where YOU Are the Star
If you’re trying to remember an episode involving lightning striking a hotel, don’t worry—there wasn’t one! The goal wasn’t to recreate a famous episode, but to make a brand-new experience for guests at Disney Hollywood Studios. Now, we have the chance to be stars in a “lost” episode of The Twilight Zone, where we get to experience the story for ourselves.

5. Giving Props to Classic Episodes
What’s a classic Disney attraction without Easter eggs? Sharp-eyed visitors should pay attention in the hotel’s Library—especially if you’re a Twilight Zone fan. While the hotel is full of intriguing pieces—apparently collected by its globetrotting owner—some of the artifacts look strangely familiar, from a small metal spaceman suit and a nickel fortune-telling machine to a pair of cracked reading glasses and a cookbook ominously titled “To Serve Man.”

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™

6. What Kind of Party, Indeed…
Hollywood’s most famous hotel naturally features its brightest star. Mickey Mouse makes cameo appearances, his most famous being the Mickey Mouse doll held by the child star in imagery throughout the attraction. The Library already has a wealth of Twilight Zone Easter eggs as well, but Disney fans should search for sheet music for the song that asks the age-old question, “What! No Mickey Mouse? (What Kind of Party is This?)”

7. Classic Californian Architecture
Disney’s Hollywood Studios is inspired by the “Hollywood that never was—and always will be,” but The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror takes particular inspiration from certain key landmarks that lend an air of authenticity to the once-glittering hotel in the heart of Tinseltown. Taking visual cues from the revival styles that swept California in the early 20th century, The Hollywood Tower Hotel echoes famous buildings such as the Mission Inn and the Biltmore Hotel. Emotionally, it recalls the legend and lore of the historic Chateau Marmont. Its landscaping—now abandoned and overgrown, but once an extravagant masterpiece—was inspired by the chaparral-covered hills of L.A.’s Griffith Park and Elysian Park.

8. Disney’s Hollywood
Besides references to classic The Twilight Zone episodes, there’s another special shout-out to a certain famous American. “Four Pages of Hilarious Star Caricatures by Walt Disney” is featured in the Photoplay magazine on the Concierge Desk.

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™

9. Terror-ific Towers all Over the World
Traveling to a Disney park in France or Tokyo? Make sure to “drop in” on the unique version of Tower of Terror that each park features. Walt Disney Studios Park at Disneyland Paris features a similar adventure to that of Disney’s Hollywood Studios, but over in Tokyo, you can stop by the Hightower Hotel for a very different story. Tokyo DisneySea features a unique spin on the Tower of Terror attraction, where you can investigate Harrison Hightower III’s disappearance thanks to a mysterious idol. Will you follow his fate? Whichever version of the experience is your favorite, one thing’s for sure—you’re going down for a great time!

Breaking News from San Diego Comic-Con—Everything New That’s Coming to the Marvel Cinematic Universe

By Beth Deitchman

As we learned from Marvel Studios’ Avengers: Endgame, part of the journey is the end… And as we discovered this evening in Hall H at San Diego Comic-Con, after the end comes a new beginning. Tonight, Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige thrilled the packed house—with the help of special guests that included Angelina Jolie, Benedict Cumberbatch, Jeremy Renner, Chris Hemsworth, and Mahershala Ali—as he unveiled eagerly anticipated details about the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

In the coming months and years, we can look forward to new big-screen adventures for Black Widow, Doctor Strange, and Thor, as well as series for Hawkeye, Scarlet Witch, and The Falcon and The Winter Soldier on Disney+, the streaming service that launches in the U.S. on November 12. Here is everything we know about the unbelievable lineup Marvel Studios is bringing to a screen near you:

COMING TO THEATERS:

Eternals

Marvel Comic-Con 2019
(L-R) President of Marvel Studios Kevin Feige, director Chloe Zhao, Richard Madden, Kumail Nanjiani, Lauren Ridloff, Brian Tyree Henry, Salma Hayek, Lia McHugh, Don Lee and Angelina Jolie

The Eternals—November 6, 2020
Get ready to meet an exciting new team of Super Heroes in The Eternals, to be directed by Chloé Zhao. The film stars Richard Madden as Ikaris, Kumail Nanjiani as Kingo, Lauren Ridloff as Makkari, Brian Tyree Henry as Phastos, Salma Hayek as Ajak, Lia McHugh as Sprite, Don Lee as Gilgamesh, and Angelina Jolie as Thena.

Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings

Marvel Comic-Con 2019
(L-R) President of Marvel Studios Kevin Feige, Director Destin Daniel Cretton and Simu Liu

Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings—February 12, 2021
Fans who have been following the Marvel Cinematic Universe closely know that there have been hints about this legend since the very first Iron Man. Tonight, Feige brought actor Simu Liu to the Hall H stage, along with the film’s director, Destin Daniel Cretton, and he revealed some other exciting casting news. Legendary Chinese actor Tony Leung has been cast as the real Mandarin, while we can also look forward to Awkwafina in a mysterious role that has yet to be revealed…

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness—May 7, 2021
As excited as we are for a second film centered around Doctor Strange, we’re even more thrilled by the news that he will be joined in the new film by Wanda Maximoff/Scarlet Witch. Elizabeth Olsen revealed that Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness will have a direct connection to the Disney+ series WandaVision, in which she’ll also star, and you can color us intrigued. Benedict Cumberbatch stars once again as Doctor Stephen Strange and Scott Derrickson returns to direct.

Thor: Love and Thunder

Marvel Comic-Con 2019
(L-R) President of Marvel Studios Kevin Feige, Director Taika Waititi, Natalie Portman and Chris Hemsworth

Thor: Love and Thunder—November 5, 2021
There’s a new God of Thunder and she’s more than worthy—she’s also a Goddess. Natalie Portman joined director Taika Waititi, Chris Hemsworth, and Tessa Thompson on stage, wielding Thor’s hammer as it was revealed that her character, Jane Foster, will become the Mighty Thor in the next installment in the Thor franchise.

Black Widow

Black Widow—May 1, 2020
We have less than a year to wait for the first film of Phase Four to hit the nearest multiplex. Black Widow is in production now, with Scarlett Johansson reprising her role of Natasha Romanoff. Cate Shortland directs the film, which also features David Harbour as Alexei, aka The Red Guardian; Florence Pugh as Yelena; O-T Fagbenle as Mason; and Rachel Weisz as Melina.

Blade

Blade
Details were scant about the film, but two-time Oscar® winner Mahershala Ali was announced to star as the title character, who in Marvel comics is a half-human/half-vampire who has made it his mission to protect mortals from the undead. We’re already on the edge of our seats!

COMING TO DISNEY+:

The Falcon and the Winter Soldier

Marvel Comic-Con 2019
Sebastian Stan and Anthony Mackie

The Falcon and The Winter Soldier—Fall 2020
We last saw this pair of Super Heroes in the final moments of Avengers: Endgame, and in the fall of next year, Sam Wilson (aka The Falcon) and Bucky Barnes (aka The Winter Soldier) will embark on a new chapter. Anthony Mackie (The Falcon) and Sebastian Stan (The Winter Soldier) will be joined by Daniel Brühl as villain Baron Zemo.

WandaVision

Marvel Comic-Con 2019
(L-R) Elizabeth Olsen, Paul Bettany and Teyonah Parris

WandaVision—Spring 2021
We already knew that this series would feature two fan-favorite characters—Wanda Maximoff/Scarlet Witch and Vision, played by Elizabeth Olsen and Paul Bettany, respectively—but it was revealed in Hall H that we’ll be seeing a third when WandaVision premieres on Disney+. An adult Monica Rambeau—the adorable daughter of Maria Rambeau from Captain Marvel—will be played by MCU newcomer Teyonah Parris.

Loki

Loki—Spring 2021
The God of Mischief is coming to Disney+. Will we discover what happened after Loki took off with the Space Stone in Avengers: Endgame? We hope to find out, come spring 2021.

What If...?

What If…?—Summer 2021
As fans, it’s fun to speculate on alternate realities within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, but we can’t wait to see what the talented minds at Marvel come up with. Jeffrey Wright will voice The Watcher in the new series, and Marvel Studios is assembling a stellar voice cast from across the Marvel Cinematic Universe to reprise their roles as voice talent.

Hawkeye

Marvel Comic-Con 2019
Jeremy Renner

Hawkeye—Fall 2021
Jeremy Renner was on hand to reveal the series’ title, and to announce that a popular Marvel comics character will be an integral part of the series. Stay tuned for more details about Hawkeye—and Kate Bishop, who will be joining the Super Hero—as they’re announced.

This is just the beginning. Stay tuned to D23.com for all of the details about Phase Four of the MCU.

What You Need to Know From the DuckTales Comic-Con Adventure

By Jim Frye

Let’s hear it for Huey, Dewey, Louie, Webby, and the whole gang from Duckburg, as they take off on brand-new adventures in DuckTales, the fresh new take on the fan-favorite 1987 animated series. DuckTales follows the adventures of Huey, Dewey, Louie, Webby Vanderquack, Donald Duck, Della Duck, Launchpad McQuack, and Scrooge McDuck. Executive produer Matt Youngberg and co-producer/story editor Frank Angones gave attendees at the DuckTales San Diego Comic-Con panel an exclusive peek behind the feathers at the rest of Season 2 and the upcoming third season, including a mid-season trailer:

Perhaps the biggest surprise of the day came when Lin-Manuel Miranda—who voices Gizmoduck/Fenton Crackshell—showed up and joined stars Paget Brewster (Della Duck), Bobby Moynihan (Louie Duck), Ben Schwartz (Dewey Duck), and Kate Micucci (Webby Vanderquack) on the panel. Sitting with his fellow voice cast, he said, “All of the Disney Afternoon theme songs are perfect,” before singing a few lines himself.

DuckTales cast at Comic-Con

DuckTales cast at Comic-Con

But Miranda wasn’t the only surprise, as the producers showed off a parade of characters who would be making their way to Duckburg this next go-round. They included beloved characters Daisy (yay!), Goofy, Gadget, Chip, Dale, and Monterey Jack from Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers; a grown-up Kit and Molly from TaleSpin; Gosalyn Mallard from Darkwing Duck; and more.

A new poster for the upcoming season 2 of DuckTales was also revealed.

DuckTales poster

The “woo-oo” that so embodies the show was altered in unforgettable ways as Scrooge’s arch nemesis, Flintheart Glomgold, took over the iconic DuckTales theme song with his own unique rendition. It’s part of Disney Channel’s “Disney Theme Song Takeover” short-form series, which spotlights animated characters doing their own unique take on series theme songs.

New episodes of DuckTales will premiere in September on Disney Channel and in DisneyNOW.

Fans also got a special exclusive first look at two upcoming new series: First up was The Rocketeer, based on the live-action film favorite, which tells the story of Kit, a young girl who receives a jetpack for her birthday and becomes the namesake Rocketeer to protect the citizens of Hughesville, along with the help of her best friend, Tesh, bulldog sidekick, Butch, and airplane mechanic grandfather, Ambrose Secord. It will air on Disney Junior later this year.

Next up was The Owl House, which premieres early in 2020 on Disney Channel. Created and executive produced by Dana Terrace (Gravity Falls), the series is an animated fantasy-comedy that follows Luz, a teenage human girl who accidently stumbles upon a portal to a magical new world where she befriends a rebellious witch, Eda, and an adorably tiny warrior, King.

A Major Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run Milestone—Plus More in News Briefs

By Courtney Potter

The Ridgeway family from Mississippi gets a galactic surprise, and Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. makes a big announcement… Read more, along with other news from around Disney, in this week’s news briefs!

Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run Celebrates its 1 Millionth Rider!

Disneyland park made history when Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, the universe’s first Star Wars-themed land—not to mention Disney’s largest single-themed land, period—opened in late May. And earlier this week, they made history again! But this time, they had very special help from the Ridgeway family of Ocean Springs, Mississippi…

Jonathan Ridgeway, 8—along with mom Becky, dad Roger, and brother Logan, 4—climbed aboard Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run and became the 1 millionth member of Hondo Ohnaka’s flight crew to take the controls of the “fastest hunk of junk in the galaxy”! The Ridgeways spent some time in the ship’s main hold and lounge, where they sat at the famous Dejarik table and met a surprise guest, Chewbacca. Then, Jonathan settled into the cockpit as a co-pilot of the Falcon; after their flight, the family was treated to Blue Milk for a delicious celebratory toast. Take a peek at the Ridgeways in action in the new video, above.

Make sure to visit Hondo and his crew—and take your own spin—at Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run, now soaring at Disneyland park… and soon to be racing through the stars at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, beginning August 29.

Save the Date!
Be sure to mark these upcoming Disney events on your calendar:

D23 and Walt Disney Archives
July 20, 2019
D23 is Coming to San Diego Comic-Con 2019
July 20, 2019
D23 Member Mixer—San Diego
July 20, 2019
August 23-25, 2019
D23 Expo 2019
January 17, 2020
Get VIP Tickets to Disney’s Frozen The Hit Broadway Musical
Parks
August 16, 20, 23, 27, 30; September 2, 6, 8, 10, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 27, 29; October 1, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 14, 15, 17, 18, 20, 21, 24, 25, 27, 29, 31, 2019
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom park
August 29, 2019
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Opening at and Walt Disney World Resort
August 29—November 23, 2019, 2019
November 8, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21, 22, 24; December 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22, 2019
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom park
2019 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
September 17, 19, 22, 24, 26, 29, 2019; October 1, 3, 6, 8, 10, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 27, 29, 31, 2019
Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party at Disney California Adventure park
2019 Epcot International Festival of the Holidays
November 8, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21, 22, 24, 2019; December 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22, 2019
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom park
November 29—December 30, 2019, 2019
2019 Epcot International Festival of the Holidays
Studios
July 19, 2019
The Lion King opens in U.S. theaters
October 18, 2019
Maleficent: Mistress of Evil opens in U.S. theaters
November 22, 2019
Frozen 2 opens in U.S. theaters
December 20, 2019
Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker opens in U.S. theaters
Television
July 16, 2019
The Lion King: Can You Feel The Love Tonight with Robin Roberts airs on ABC (8 p.m. EDT/PDT)
August 2, 2019
Descendants 3 premieres on Disney Channel and DisneyNOW (8 p.m. EDT/PDT).

Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D

ABC’s Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. to Conclude After Seventh Season

Marvel fans, we’ve got some news to share from our pals at ABC: Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., the longest-running Marvel television series, will end its groundbreaking run in Summer 2020, at the conclusion of its seventh season. The final 13 episodes will air throughout next summer. “Agent Coulson is one of the most beloved cinematic heroes of our time, and we’re so glad to have spent seven seasons with him and the S.H.I.E.L.D. agents as they saved the world from countless unimaginable big bads,” Karey Burke, president, ABC Entertainment, recently said. “I am so impressed with the eternally fresh, heart-pounding, and emotional stories the writers and creative team at Marvel Television brought to life that led S.H.I.E.L.D. to be the longest-running Marvel series to date. ”

Season six of the series, starring Clark Gregg, Chloe Bennet, and soon-to-be-inducted Disney Legend Ming-Na Wen, is currently airing Fridays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC.

Kermit the Frog and Disney Channel’s Amphibia: A Match Made in Marshland

What’s cooler than the world’s most famous amphibian visiting the writers and creators of Disney Channel’s hit new show Amphibia? Not much! And we’ve got video to prove it: Check out the clip, above, to follow along as Kermit the Frog heads to Disney Television Animation for a sojourn as an “unofficial frog consultant” for the channel’s frog-out-of-water animated series.

You’ll see him interacting with Amphibia creator Matt Braly, as well as trying (hilariously yet unsuccessfully) to pitch an idea for the show that involves a “demanding new girl in town” who just happens to be… a pig.

Don’t miss Amphibia—featuring Brenda Song as the voice of Anne Boonchuy, a 13-year-old who’s magically transported to a fantastical rural marshland full of frog people—airing now on Disney Channel and DisneyNOW.

Emmy® Nominations Across the Worlds of Disney

We’ve still gotta wait ’til Sunday, September 22, for the big 2019 Primetime Emmy® Awards bonanza—airing live on FOX at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT, if you’d like to mark those calendars now—but that means we’ve got a few more weeks to blissfully binge-watch all the incredible nominated content from across the worlds of Disney. See the list of nominees right here at D23.com!

Disney Skyliner Takes to the Walt Disney World Skies This September

If you’ve been following along with News Briefs for a while, you’ve no doubt seen that a truly unique, state-of-the-art transportation service is coming to Walt Disney World Resort. And just this week, our pals at the Disney Parks Blog have revealed that the Disney Skyliner is set to officially debut on September 29! Take a gander at this innovative gondola system in action in the new video, above.

The Disney Skyliner system will seamlessly transport Walt Disney World guests from Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios to four resort hotels—Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, and the new Disney’s Riviera Resort (slated to open this December). Each gondola features adorable graphics based on favorite Disney characters, films, and attractions… including Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse (naturally!); Monsters, Inc. and Finding Dory; the Haunted Mansion; and many more.

Should you happen to be partaking of an incredible Walt Disney World vacation later this fall, don’t miss your chance to take flight!

Frozen

Rock Out to Your Favorite Tunes at Spotify’s New Disney Hub

We here at D23 have curated a few awesome Spotify playlists—our fave is Disney Park Hype—but what about creating your own? Looking for deeper cuts? Or specific soundtracks that suit a very particular mood? (For instance: songs to get you hyped for a trip to a Disney park might not work for an intense AP History study session… )

How could you possibly find it all within such a vast musical treasure trove as Spotify? Here’s some good news: With the streaming service’s brand-new Disney Hub, those tunes are easier to find than ever before. Beginning this week, users in the United States, the United Kingdom, Ireland, South Africa, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand can search “Disney” on Spotify to find a designated hub for the music behind some of their favorite Disney movies and TV shows. Stream playlists full of everything from The Little Mermaid to modern favorites like Frozen… to Star Wars instrumentals and Marvel movie soundtracks … and a ton of Disney compilations that’ll help bring magic to your day-to-day.

So the next time you fire up Spotify, make sure to visit the Disney Hub!

Get Ready for The Lion King’s Worldwide Debut with New Featurette

In mere hours, we return to the Pride Lands in Disney’s The Lion King—and the excitement has grown from a mere growl to a mighty roar! Are you ready to reacquaint yourself with Simba and all his family and friends? Might we suggest taking a look at the all new featurette, above. We guarantee you’ll feel like you have “no worries” in no time…

Using incredible filmmaking techniques to bring treasured characters to life in a whole new way, The Lion King journeys to the African savanna where a future king is faced with betrayal and tragedy. But with the help of some newfound friends, he grows up to realize his rightful place in the circle of life. The all-star cast includes Donald Glover as Simba, Beyoncé Knowles-Carter as Nala, James Earl Jones as Mufasa, Chiwetel Ejiofor as Scar, Seth Rogen as Pumbaa, and Billy Eichner as Timon. Look for it in theaters beginning Friday, July 19.

Celebrate WE Day This August on ABC

For the uninitiated, WE is a family of organizations that “makes doing good doable”; founded by entrepreneurs Marc and Craig Kielburger, WE aims to empower domestic and international change, create socially conscious products to help support said change, and celebrate social good with gigantic, super-fun celebrations in stadiums around the world. And later this summer, one of those super-fun celebrations is coming to ABC!

Hosted by multi-hyphenate Neil Patrick Harris and airing Friday, August 9, at 8 p.m. ET, ABC’s WE Day special will honor the actions taken and positive impacts made by youth, families, and educators across the country who, together, are an unstoppable force for good. Take a look at the new trailer for the special, above.

WE Day will feature a cadre of incredible performers and celebrities, including Selena Gomez, Joe Jonas, Meghan Trainor, Natalie Portman, Lilly Singh, Chance the Rapper, and Mahershala Ali. Portions of the special were shot at WE Day California, which took place on April 25, 2019, at the “Fabulous” Forum in Inglewood. Students and teachers in the crowd earned their ticket to the event by taking action on social issues through a global educational program called WE Schools.

Celebrating “doing good” and being thoroughly entertained at the same time… what’s not to love?

Halloween at Magic Kingdom

New Halloween Fun Just Around the Corner at Magic Kingdom Park

Okay, it’s true—there’s still plenty of summer merriment to be had before the kids go back to school and the weather starts to cool. But that doesn’t mean we can’t start planning some fabulous fall fun! And with Walt Disney World Resort’s recent announcement, our calendar is filling up fast…

Guests at Magic Kingdom park will once again get into the Halloween spirit when Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party (the super-popular separately ticketed event) returns, beginning August 16—and this year, it’ll feature a brand-new nighttime spectacular! Jack Skellington from Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas will host Disney’s Not-So-Spooky Spectacular, which is set to include incredible state-of-the-art projection effects, lasers, lighting, and fireworks filling the sky. The mayor of Halloweentown has come to tell the not-so-scary story about how anything can happen on Halloween night… Jack’s ghost dog, Zero, then flies off carrying everyone along on a trick-or-treating adventure, where four friends (Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald, and Goofy) find themselves drawn into a mysterious haunted house—encountering dancing skeletons, waltzing ghosts, and a bunch of Disney villains along the way.

But that’s not all: Several attractions across the park will receive brand-new Halloween enhancements just for the party, including a treat trail encounter with Monsters, Inc. favorites; a posse of adventurous live pirates outside Pirates of the Caribbean; and a hard-rockin’ new soundtrack for Space Mountain. And don’t forget about returning favorites like the fabulous Hocus Pocus Villain Spelltacular show and the Mickey’s Boo to You Halloween Parade.

For more information about 2019’s Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, visit the event’s page at DisneyWorld.com.

Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. Makes Swan Song Appearance at San Diego Comic-Con

By Jim Frye

It was a double dose of bittersweet at the Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. panel in the cavernous Hall H at San Diego Comic-Con, the giant fan and pop-culture convention now celebrating its 50th year. ABC’s popular series, based on characters first introduced in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (or, more accurately, in Marvel comics), stars Clark Gregg as Phil Colson, an agent who leads a special forces-style team of agents on missions for the Strategic Homeland Intervention, Enforcement and Logistics Division—better known as S.H.I.E.L.D. It is the longest-running Marvel television series.

Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D at Comic-Con

Just before the panel began, word broke that Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. would conclude its epic run at the end of season seven. “It will be bittersweet saying goodbye to Marvel Television’s flagship series,” said Jeph Loeb, executive producer and Marvel’s head of Television. “Our success is a true testament to the extraordinary fans and we remain forever indebted to them for their endless support. We want to end on a very high note and complete the incredible saga after seven amazing seasons and 136 hours of quality television.”

What made it even more bittersweet—a double dose, in fact—is that, according to co-creator/executive producer Jed Whedon, the cast and crew were in the middle of filming the final episode. “We just found out about season seven being the last,” said Whedon, “which is why it’s even more emotional for most of the cast, because we’re shooting the final episode right now.”

Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D at Comic-Con

“Today is really a celebration of the stories we told and an ending all of you deserve,” said Loeb, “because Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. fans rock.”

In addition to Gregg, cast members Ming-Na Wen, Chloe Bennet, Iain De Caestecker, Elizabeth Henstridge, Henry Simmons, Natalia Cordova-Buckley, and executive producers Jed Whedon, Maurissa Tancharoen, and Jeffrey Bell participated in the panel, which was moderated by Jeph Loeb. It wasn’t just any panel—nope, it was special because Marvel gave fans a look back at six action-packed seasons of the series, complete with extensive video clips from each season. The season six finale of Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. airs Friday, August 2 (8 p.m. ET/PT).

Marvel's Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D at Comic-Con

“It’s just so remarkable that we made every episode in eight days and I don’t think we would have really forced ourselves in every department to do something so miraculous if it wasn’t for you guys,” said Wen to the fans in Hall H, holding back the tears. “It’s just to entertain you guys, but it is such a family and it’s so miraculous when I look back at it… It brings back a lot of memories.”

Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. was co-created by Joss Whedon, Jed Whedon and Maurissa Tancharoen, who also serve as executive producers along with Jeffrey Bell and Jeph Loeb.