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.

Disney Junior Announces Rocketeer Casting News to Make Your Spirit Soar

By Beth Deitchman

Since Disney Junior first announced The Rocketeer, a new comedic adventure series inspired by the beloved superhero comic books from Dave Stevens, as well as Walt Disney Pictures’ 1991 film of the same name, we’ve been eager for every new detail. Today we’re flying high with some exciting casting news out of the Disney Television Animation panel at San Diego Comic-Con: Billy Campbell, who starred in the live-action film as Cliff Secord, is joining the cast of the animated series. Campbell will play Dave Secord, father of Kit Secord, who learns she’s secretly next in line to become The Rocketeer, a rocket-pack-wearing superhero who can fly.

The Rocketeer

“This is my first voice-acting job ever, and I’m thrilled that it’s for The Rocketeer,” said Campbell. “This has been a really nice full-circle moment for me, and I’m looking forward to introducing a new generation of kids, including my own, to the Rocketeer’s stories.”

But Campbell isn’t the only Disney fan-favorite we’ll hear in The Rocketeer’s voice cast. Kathy Najimy (Hocus Pocus) will voice Kit’s mother, Sareena Secord. Additionally, Kitana Turnbull (A Series of Unfortunate Events) stars as Kit, the young girl who takes on the mantle of the legendary superhero.

As Kit takes to the skies with her new gear (and her secret identity) to protect her town of Hughesville and its residents from danger, she’ll be aided by her best friend, Tesh (voiced by Callan Farris of Disney Channel’s upcoming Gabby Duran & The Unsittables); her bulldog sidekick, Butch; and her airplane mechanic grandfather, Ambrose Secord. It was revealed today that legendary voice actor Frank Welker (Scooby-Doo) will lend his voice to both Grandpa Ambrose and Butch. Navia Robinson (Disney Channel’s Raven’s Home) voices Kit’s flight school classmate, Valerie Valkyrie.

Fans can look forward to a host of recurring comedic villains, including Maria Bamford (Arrested Development) and Kari Wahlgren (DC Superhero Girls) as sister team, Laura and Harley; Maurice LaMarche (Futurama) as Sylvester Slapdash; Charlie Adler (The Transformers franchise) and Parvesh Cheena (Disney Junior’s upcoming Mira, Royal Detective) as The Great Orsino and Deany, respectively; and celebrity chef Ted Allen (Chopped) as Cast-Iron Chef.

Seven-time Emmy® Award nominee Nicole Dubuc (Transformers: Rescue Bots) developed the series and serves as executive producer. Michael Kenny (Disney’s Miles From Tomorrowland) is supervising director, Emmy Award-nominated Beau Black (Disney’s The Lion Guard) is the songwriter, and Annie Award-nominated Dominic Lewis (Disney’s DuckTales) is the composer. The series is produced by Wild Canary in association with Disney Junior.

Favorite Series, Specials, and More Earn 116 Emmy® Nominations Across the Worlds of Disney

By Zach Johnson

In just a few months, Hollywood will roll out the red carpet as it celebrates the best in television. Nominations for the 2019 Primetime Emmy® Awards were announced yesterday from the Television Academy’s Wolf Theatre at the Saban Media Center in North Hollywood, and must-watch entertainment from Walt Disney Television, Hulu, and ESPN combined for 116 nods.

The winners will be revealed live September 22, 2019. A complete list of every Disney Emmy nomination is included below, and to view the entire list of Emmy nominees, visit Emmys.com.

Join us in congratulating this year’s nominees:

WALT DISNEY TELEVISION

Fosse/Verdon

Fosse/Verdon (FX Networks/Fox 21 Television Studios/FX Productions)—18 nominations

  • Outstanding Limited Series
  • Outstanding Lead Actor In A Limited Series Or Movie: Sam Rockwell
  • Outstanding Lead Actress In A Limited Series Or Movie: Michelle Williams
  • Outstanding Supporting Actress In A Limited Series Or Movie: Margaret Qualley
  • Outstanding Writing For A Limited Series, Movie Or Dramatic Special: Steven Levenson and Joel Fields
  • Outstanding Directing For A Limited Series, Movie Or Dramatic Special: Thomas Kail
  • Outstanding Directing For A Limited Series, Movie Or Dramatic Special: Jessica Yu
  • Outstanding Casting For A Limited Series, Movie Or Special
  • Outstanding Period Costumes
  • Outstanding Hairstyling For A Limited Series Or Movie
  • Outstanding Makeup For A Limited Series Or Movie (Non-Prosthetic)
  • Outstanding Prosthetic Makeup For A Series, Limited Series, Movie Or Special
  • Outstanding Production Design For A Narrative Period Or Fantasy Program (One Hour Or More)
  • Outstanding Single-Camera Picture Editing For A Limited Series Or Movie
  • Outstanding Music Direction
  • Outstanding Music Supervision
  • Outstanding Sound Mixing For A Limited Series Or Movie
  • Outstanding Short Form Nonfiction Or Reality Series

This Is Us (20th Century Fox Television)—9 nominations

  • Outstanding Drama Series
  • Outstanding Lead Actor In A Drama Series: Sterling K. Brown
  • Outstanding Lead Actor In A Drama Series: Milo Ventimiglia
  • Outstanding Lead Actress In A Drama Series: Mandy Moore
  • Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Drama Series: Chris Sullivan
  • Outstanding Guest Actor In A Drama Series: Ron Cephas Jones
  • Outstanding Guest Actor In A Drama Series: Michael Angarano
  • Outstanding Guest Actress In A Drama Series: Phylicia Rashad
  • Outstanding Music Composition For A Series (Original Dramatic Score): Siddhartha Khosla

The Oscars

The Oscars (ABC)—8 nominations

  • Outstanding Variety Special (Live)
  • Outstanding Directing For A Variety Special: Glenn Weiss
  • Outstanding Music Direction
  • Outstanding Production Design For A Variety Special
  • Outstanding Lighting Design/Lighting Direction For A Variety Special
  • Outstanding Sound Mixing For A Variety Series Or Special
  • Outstanding Technical Direction, Camerawork, Video Control For A Special
  • Outstanding Creative Achievement In Interactive Media Within An Unscripted Program

Pose (FX Networks / Fox 21 Television Studios / FX Productions)—7 nominations

  • Outstanding Drama Series
  • Outstanding Lead Actor In A Drama Series: Billy Porter
  • Outstanding Casting For A Drama Series
  • Outstanding Period Costumes
  • Outstanding Hairstyling For A Single-Camera Series
  • Outstanding Makeup For A Single-Camera Series (Non-Prosthetic)
  • Outstanding Short Form Nonfiction Or Reality Series

Free Solo

Free Solo (National Geographic)—7 nominations

  • Outstanding Directing For A Documentary/Nonfiction Program: Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin
  • Outstanding Cinematography For A Nonfiction Program
  • Outstanding Picture Editing For A Nonfiction Program
  • Outstanding Creative Achievement In Interactive Media Within An Unscripted Program
  • Outstanding Music Composition For A Documentary Series Or Special (Original Dramatic Score)
  • Outstanding Sound Editing For A Nonfiction Program (Single Or Multi- Camera)
  • Outstanding Sound Mixing For A Nonfiction Program (Single or Multi-Camera)

American Horror Story: Apocalypse

American Horror Story: Apocalypse (FX Networks/20th Century Fox Television)—5 nominations

  • Outstanding Guest Actress In A Drama Series: Jessica Lange
  • Outstanding Fantasy/Sci-Fi Costumes
  • Outstanding Hairstyling For A Single-Camera Series
  • Outstanding Makeup For A Single-Camera Series (Non-Prosthetic)
  • Outstanding Prosthetic Makeup For A Series, Limited Series, Movie Or Special

Rent (20th Century Fox Television)—5 nominations

  • Outstanding Variety Special (Live)
  • Outstanding Production Design For A Variety Special
  • Outstanding Lighting Design/Lighting Direction For A Variety Special
  • Outstanding Makeup For A Multi-Camera Series Or Special (Non-Prosthetic)
  • Outstanding Technical Direction, Camerawork, Video Control For A Special

Dancing with the Stars

Dancing with the Stars (ABC)—4 nominations

  • Outstanding Costumes For Variety, Nonfiction Or Reality Programming
  • Outstanding Hairstyling For A Multi-Camera Series Or Special
  • Outstanding Lighting Design/Lighting Direction For A Variety Series
  • Outstanding Makeup For A Multi-Camera Series Or Special (Non-Prosthetic)

Shark Tank (ABC)—3 nominations

  • Outstanding Structured Reality Program
  • Outstanding Directing For A Reality Program: Ken Fuchs
  • Outstanding Casting For A Reality Program

Viola Davis - How to Get Away with Murder

How to Get Away with Murder (ABC/ABC Studios)—3 nominations

  • Outstanding Lead Actress In A Drama Series: Viola Davis
  • Outstanding Guest Actor In A Drama Series: Glynn Turman
  • Outstanding Guest Actress In A Drama Series: Cicely Tyson

Live in Front of a Studio Audience: Norman Lear’s ‘All in the Family’ and ‘The Jeffersons’ (ABC)—3 nominations

  • Outstanding Variety Special (Live)
  • Outstanding Directing For A Variety Special: James Burrows and Andy Fisher
  • Outstanding Production Design For A Variety Special

Hostile Planet

Hostile Planet (National Geographic)—3 nominations

  • Outstanding Documentary Or Nonfiction Series
  • Outstanding Writing For A Nonfiction Program: Bruce Kennedy
  • Outstanding Music Composition For A Documentary Series Or Special (Original Dramatic Score)

Life Below Zero

Life Below Zero (National Geographic)—3 nominations

  • Outstanding Unstructured Reality Program
  • Outstanding Cinematography For A Reality Program
  • Outstanding Picture Editing For An Unstructured Reality Program

black-ish

black-ish (ABC/ABC Studios)—2 nominations

  • Outstanding Lead Actor In A Comedy Series: Anthony Anderson
  • Outstanding Contemporary Costumes

The Simpsons

The Simpsons (20th Century Fox Television)—2 nominations

  • Outstanding Animated Program
  • Outstanding Character Voice-Over Performance: Hank Azaria

Family Guy (20th Century Fox Television)—2 nominations

  • Outstanding Character Voice-Over Performance: Seth MacFarlane
  • Outstanding Character Voice-Over Performance: Alex Borstein

What We Do in the Shadows (FX Networks)—2 nominations

  • Outstanding Cinematography For A Single-Camera Series (Half-Hour)
  • Outstanding Sound Editing For A Comedy Or Drama Series (Half-Hour) And Animation

Jimmy Kimmel Live!

Jimmy Kimmel Live! (ABC/ABC Studios)—1 nomination

  • Outstanding Variety Talk Series

The Conners (ABC)—1 nomination

  • Outstanding Multi-Camera Picture Editing For A Comedy Series

 Bob’s Burgers (20th Century Fox Television)—1 nomination

  • Outstanding Animated Program

Modern Family (ABC/20th Century Fox Television)—1 nomination

  • Outstanding Sound Mixing For A Comedy Or Drama Series (Half-Hour) And Animation

The Orville (20th Century Fox Television)—1 nomination

  • Outstanding Special Visual Effects

Rel (20th Century Fox Television)—1 nomination

  • Outstanding Cinematography For A Multi-Camera Series

Star Wars Resistance

Star Wars Resistance (Disney Channel)—1 nomination

  • Outstanding Children’s Program

The Floor (National Geographic)—1 nomination

  • Outstanding Narrator

Savage Kingdom (National Geographic)—1 nomination

  • Outstanding Narrator

ESPN

30 for 30—1 nomination

  • Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Series

Hulu

The Handmaid’s Tale—11 nominations

  • Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series: Bradley Whitford
  • Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series: Cherry Jones
  • Outstanding Production Design for a Narrative Contemporary Program (One Hour or More)
  • Outstanding Cinematography for a Single-Camera Series (One Hour)
  • Outstanding Cinematography for a Single-Camera Series (One Hour)
  • Outstanding Sound Mixing for a Comedy or Drama Series (One Hour)
  • Outstanding Fantasy/Sci-Fi Costumes
  • Outstanding Directing for a Drama Series
  • Outstanding Single-Camera Picture Editing for a Drama Series
  • Outstanding Music Composition for a Series (Original Dramatic Score)
  • Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series

The Act—2 nominations

  • Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series: Joey King
  • Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or Movie: Patricia Arquette

Catch-22—2 nominations

  • Outstanding Sound Editing for a Limited Series, Movie or Special
  • Outstanding Special Visual Effects in a Limited Series, Movie or Special

Castle Rock—1 nomination

  • Outstanding Original Main Title Theme Music

 Fyre Fraud—1 nomination

  • Outstanding Writing for a Nonfiction Program

 I Love You, America With Sarah Silverman—1 nomination

  • Outstanding Variety Sketch Series

 Minding the Gap—1 nomination

  • Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Special

 PEN15—1 nomination

  • Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series

9 Tales That Made Us Roar at The Lion King Press Conference

By Zach Johnson

The recent Lion King global press conference in Beverly Hills began much like the movie itself, with Lebo M belting the iconic Zulu lyrics from “The Circle of Life.” Joined by soloist Clydene Jackson and a talented choir, it was a celebratory introduction fit for a king—a lion king, that is.

Moments after bringing the room to its feet with the lively performance, Lebo M reappeared onstage alongside the cast and filmmakers behind the new version of The Lion King.  For the next 45 minutes, director Jon Favreau and composer Hans Zimmer—both to be inducted as Disney Legends at D23 Expo 2019—and voice talent Donald Glover (Simba), Chiwetel Ejiofor (Scar), Alfre Woodward (Sarabi), Billy Eichner (Timon), Seth Rogen (Zazu), JD McCrary (Young Simba), Shahadi Wright Joseph (Young Nala), Keegan-Michael Key (Kamari), Florence Kasumba (Shenzi), Eric Andre (Azizi), and John Kani (Rafiki) shared their memories of the original film, how it feels to be part of the all-new Lion King and other “tales.” Rounding out the voice cast is John Oliver as Zazu, with Beyoncé Knowles-Carter as Nala and James Earl Jones (also a new Disney Legend honoree) returning as Mufasa.

The Lion King press conference

Except for one photographic shot, The Lion King was entirely computer animated. “Everything else was built from scratch by artists,” Favreau said, adding, “It’s nice to look at technology as an invitation for things to progress. I think there’s a balance between innovation and tradition.”

Before The Lion King opens in theaters July 19, enjoy nine highlights from the press conference:

1. Creating 2019’s The Lion King was a team effort. Between helming The Jungle Book and The Lion King, Favreau estimated he spent six years working “back-to-back” on two of Disney’s most iconic and beloved film properties. “I’ve been working about three years on this one, and a lot of them have been working for the same amount of time because they came in when it was pencils,” he said, tipping his hat to the actors. “It was a huge leap of faith for this fantastic cast.” Repeatedly, Favreau also emphasized the cast’s contributions. “This wasn’t something where I’d been toiling away alone; these people were all collaborators and filmmakers along with me.”

2. A virtual reality game was developed exclusively for the cast and crew. “It was so cool!” raved McCrary. “It’s like watching your favorite movie, but you’re in it! You are in the movie!” Favreau wanted to give the voice actors a sense of the world their characters would inhabit, and his strategy paid off. “Gaming and filmmaking, it’s all overlapping so much,” Favreau said. “Oftentimes when new technology comes online, it disrupts an industry. But with just a little bit of effort, we were able to build around the way filmmakers and film crews [already] work.”

“We put on the headsets, we had these controllers in our hands, and were flying! It was like we were Zazu,” McCrary said. “We saw everything! We saw the Pride Lands, we saw Pride Rock, we saw the watering hole, we saw the elephant graveyard. We saw it all, man! It was so cool! So cool!”

The Lion King press conference

3. Many of Timon and Pumbaa’s lines were ad-libbed. “It was a lot of improvisation—right, Billy?” Rogen asked his co-star. “We were actually together every time we recorded, which is a very rare gift… I think you can really tell we’re playing off each other.” Rogen was especially impressed with how they “captured” Eichner’s comedic sensibilities in Timon, the wise-cracking meerkat. “He essentially played himself on a TV show for years and this character is more Billy than that character somehow,” he shared. “His character specifically makes me laugh so hard!”

“I wish I was as cute in real life as I am in the movie,” Eichner quipped. “The Timon they designed is so adorable, and I think the juxtaposition of my personality in that little Timon body really works.” Like Rogen, Eichner was “shocked” by how much of their riffing made the final cut. “I think it works,” he added, “and I think it feels very unique to other movies in this genre.”

4. Rafiki is a dream role for John Kani, one of South Africa’s biggest stars. “The wonderful thing about it is we’re almost the same age; we’re both over 75, so we’ve both lived it,” he said. “And I’m very grateful to you, Jon; he doesn’t look like me, but he is like me, which is fantastic.”

5. Azizi and Kamari’s codependency is no accident. “Jon has an encyclopedic knowledge of all different types of comedy. One of those pieces of knowledge is about comedic duos and the dynamic that exists between them,” Key said. “We had a very similar experience to Billy and Seth. We were allowed to walk around the room. It was as if we were being directed in a scene in a play.” Key’s co-star shared that sentiment. “I was in good hands with Jon. It was a nurturing environment—and that made it very easy, because I’m very, very sensitive,” Andre said with a laugh. All kidding aside, Key said he especially enjoyed the “refinement” process. “I’d have my headphones on and I would say to Jon, ‘Now, are we looking for Fibber McGee and Molly here or Abbott and Costello? What are you looking for?’ He’d go, ‘I’m actually looking for a little bit of Laurel and Hardy with an explosion at the end, but then make it a little ‘[Judd] Apatowian’ for me.’”

The Lion King press conference

6. Two of the voice actresses originated their roles in the Broadway musical. Kasumba and Wright Joseph had performed onstage as Shenzi and Young Nala, respectively, before Favreau cast them in the film. “I was lucky that I already got to play the part in Germany for more than a year,” Kasumba said. “It’s like muscle memory, because I got to play her every day.” However, in the film, Shenzi is darker and less dimwitted. “I realized this is way more dangerous and more serious,” she recalled. Recording with Andre and McCrary helped her rediscover the character, she added. “Because everybody was very confident, we could try out things. We could walk around each other, we could scare each other, and we could scream. Be loud, be big, be small!”

“On Broadway, everything’s a little bit more structured,” Wright Joseph said, echoing her co-star’s sentiments. “You have to follow direction, which is cool. But in the new Lion King, I loved how Jon gave JD and me a bunch of freedom, especially with Pharrell Williams [who produced five songs on the soundtrack] and Hans. We also had freedom in the booth. He was like, ‘You can riff or do whatever. Just make it fun!’ I wasn’t used to that, but it was amazing.”

The Lion King press conference

7. Glover’s son might be a bigger Lion King fan than the actor himself. Before the world premiere at L.A.’s Dolby Theatre, Glover “didn’t tell him anything” about his involvement. “It’s his favorite movie, so I was like, ‘I’ll just wait until he gets there.’ Somehow he found out about it, but he still didn’t know I was in it. He was just like, ‘Oh, the one with Beyoncé?’” Eventually, he laughed, it clicked: “During the movie he was like, ‘Oh! Dad’s in it, too? This is great! Bonus!’”

8. The Lion King proudly celebrates its fierce female characters in the pride. “It is called The Lion King, but everyone knows the lionesses are actually the rulers, the protectors, the nurturers, and the hunters of the pride,” Woodard clarified. “Jon gave us the space to be that.”

The Lion King press conference

9. One of The Lion King’s funniest moments references another iconic film. “There’s a gag that references another Disney property. They do that in the stage show; they threw in a joke about Frozen that must have happened after Frozen came on Broadway,” said Favreau, careful not to spoil the joke. “We doff the cap to another live-action adaptation of a Disney animated classic.”

5 Splashy 30th Anniversary Facts About Disney’s Splash Mountain

By Jim Fanning

We’re headin’ for the Laughing Place—and it’s a fun-filled voyage culminating with a “mighty satisfactual” splash! Disneyland® Park guests have thrilled to Splash Mountain ever since its July 17, 1989 debut. To celebrate 30 years of thrills and laughter, take the plunge with five splashy facts about this wild and wet Critter Country adventure.

Tony Baxter, John Stone, and Bruce Gordon

1. The idea for Splash Mountain was born on a Southern California freeway
Imagineer and Disney Legend Tony Baxter (seen above with designer John Stone, center, and producer Bruce Gordon, right) developed the Splash Mountain concept in 1983 during his daily commute in rush hour traffic on the Santa Ana freeway. As he pondered park priorities, including the need for a new attraction featuring beloved Disney characters and the desire to create a log flume ride, Tony came up with the idea for a “hare-raising” flume ride.

Splash Mountain

2. Much of the critter cast came from another Disneyland attraction
Imagineer and Disney Legend Marc Davis designed many of the Splash Mountain Audio-Animatronics® figures, albeit for America Sings, a Tomorrowland attraction from 1974 through 1988. The America Sings figures (some of which are seen above being programmed by Imagineer Dave Feiten) were renovated for Splash Mountain, along with new Audio-Animatronics® figures of Brer Bear, Brer Fox, and Brer Rabbit, making a total of 103 colorful critters.

Critter Country

3. An entire Disneyland realm was renamed to welcome Splash Mountain
Splash Mountain’s bucolic bayous and backwood swamps are populated by such a variety of frogs, alligators, possums, vultures, and other animals that Bear Country, the Disneyland realm that opened in 1972, was rechristened Critter Country. “I’m impressed with how beautifully Splash Mountain fit in the area,” said Baxter. “In reality, it is a five-story building, but as you walk by, it just looks like part of the landscape.”

Splash Mountain

4. The grand finale gives guests a satisfactual surprise
Splash Mountain guests eagerly anticipate the exhilaration of the final drop, but there’s more to come after the celebrated splash, for the log vehicles glide back into the show for the grand finale. Here, 22 Audio-Animatronics® characters celebrate aboard the Zip-a-Dee Lady (seen above in concept art by Disney Legend Collin Campbell).

Splash Mountain

5. 30 years ago, Splash Mountain became part of the most famous theme park mountain range anywhere
Upon its debut on July 17, 1989, Splash Mountain joined the park’s “Mountain Range of Thrill Rides,” including Matterhorn Bobsleds, Space Mountain, and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Towering 87 feet above Critter Country, the attraction features five drops, including the famed final plunge that’s more than 52 feet at a 45-degree angle. The thrilling attraction made such a, well, splash that it opened at both Magic Kingdom® Park at Walt Disney World® Resort and Tokyo Disneyland® Park in 1992.

Get a Close-up Look at Epcot’s Transformation and More at D23 Expo 2019

By D23 Team

Fans of Disney parks, experiences, and products—start planning your trip to Anaheim, because D23 Expo is the place for you. From can’t-miss panels to stunning pavilions, this is your chance for an insider’s look at new themed lands, attractions, shows, and more.

Marvel Disney Parks

On the show floor, make sure to check out the Disney Parks “Imagining Tomorrow, Today” pavilion, where you’ll get a unique look at the exciting developments underway at Disney parks around the world. We know fans are hotly anticipating more details on Epcot’s historic transformation at Walt Disney World, and this pavilion is your chance for a close-up look at a dedicated showcase of what’s in store. Plus, Marvel fans can get the inside scoop on Tony Stark’s latest plans to recruit guests to join alongside the Avengers in fully immersive areas filled with action and adventure in Hong Kong, Paris, and California.

Disney Parks Concept Art

The fan-favorite Hall D23 presentation with Bob Chapek, chairman of Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, will take place Sunday, August 25, at 10:30 a.m. Guests will be treated to more details on much-anticipated attractions, experiences, and transformative storytelling that set Disney apart.

Make sure you’ve got extra room in your suitcase, because D23 Expo will feature never-before-seen collectibles across the Disney Parks, Experiences and Products-operated retail shops on the show floor: shopDisney.com | Disney Store, Disney DreamStore, Mickey’s of Glendale, and Mickey’s of Glendale Pin Store. Attendees will be introduced to new collections that celebrate milestone anniversaries and favorite characters across Disney, Pixar, Star Wars, and Marvel, along with must-have official D23 Expo 2019 gear and accessories, nostalgic Disney Parks-inspired items, and limited-edition collectibles celebrating Walt Disney Imagineering’s heritage.

There are many other exciting offerings to discover, including several special panel presentations:

Friday, August 23, 12:30 p.m., D23 Expo Arena
The Music and Sounds of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge—Sound design is an instrumental layer of storytelling found throughout every Disney park, resort, and cruise ship. Join Imagineering Music Studio lead Matt Walker in discussing the creative process behind the original music and sound design heard throughout Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Join Imagineers and collaborators who will share how they developed all-new iconic soundscapes while taking inspiration from the rich legacy of Star Wars music and sound design, from the land’s epic John Williams-composed musical score to the sounds of low-flying starships.

Friday, August 23, 4 p.m., Stage 28
Behind the Art of Disney Costuming: Heroes, Villains, and Spaces Between—Celebrate the imagination, passion, and attention to detail in creating Disney costumes. Go behind the scenes with the team that crafted the dazzling new Walt Disney Archives exhibit on the D23 Expo show floor and its accompanying coffee table book.

Saturday, August 24, 12:30 p.m., D23 Expo Arena
Haunted Mansion: Celebrating 50 Years—Celebrate Disney’s famed home of 999 happy haunts. The attraction’s rich history has generated global fandom from both the living and the unliving. Our ghost host has assembled a procession of bodies you will be dying to meet!

Saturday, August 24, 3:30 p.m., Stage 28
Immersive Worlds: Bringing Stories to Life in Disney Parks—Disney Imagineers continue Walt Disney’s legacy in creating themed environments where beloved stories and characters come to life. Join Imagineers Joe Rohde and Scott Trowbridge to learn about the creative process for dreaming up and developing new Disney experiences as we invite guests to enter authentic worlds previously seen only in a film, a book, or one’s imagination.

Saturday, August 24, 6 p.m., Walt Disney Archives Stage
Travels with Marty: A Conversation with the Sklars and Imagineers—Celebrate the legacy of Disney Legend Marty Sklar as his colleagues, mentees, and family recount the journey of publishing his last book and discuss his lasting impact on The Walt Disney Company.

Art of Costuming

Sunday, August 25, 2 p.m., Stage 28
Inspiring Women Behind Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge—Meet some of the talented women from across Disney Parks, Experiences and Products responsible for bringing Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge to life. Hear stories about their roles and experiences in developing everything from the original backstories of the land and its inhabitants, to the themed merchandise, galactic fare, and the interactive elements found throughout Black Spire Outpost.

Sunday, August 25, 4 p.m., Walt Disney Archives Stage
Magic Journey: My Fantastical Walt Disney Imagineering Career with Kevin Rafferty—Join veteran Imagineer Kevin Rafferty as he reminisces about a career spanning 40-plus years, from a dishwasher at Disneyland to builder of immersive worlds. Kevin explains his path to Imagineering and talks about his new book.

Sunday, August 25, 5:30 p.m., Stage 28
Marc Davis in His Own Words – Imagineering the Disney Theme Parks—Authors Pete Docter and Christopher Merritt reveal their magnificent two-volume tribute to the artwork and career of Disney Legend Marc Davis. Featuring artwork from Marc for the creation of the Haunted Mansion at Disneyland, the presentation will also highlight the 50th anniversary of the storied attraction.

Plus, don’t forget to check out special opportunities for some of your favorite artists to sign their exclusive merchandise:

Friday, August 23 – Saturday, August 24, Talent Central

Disney Store Artist Signing Schedule

Come meet the artists and designers behind some of our amazing D23 Expo product ranges:

  • Disney Pixar Tiki Mug Signing with Jerome Ranft

Friday, August 23, 4 – 5 p.m., Talent Central

Midnight Masquerade and Animator Villains Collections with Steve Thompson and Courtney Watkinson

Saturday, August 24, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., Talent Central

  • The Little Mermaid 30th Anniversary Collection with Steve Thompson, Bryan Mon, Daria Vinogradova, Diana Tran, and Cathy Clark-Ramirez

Saturday, August 24, 4 – 5 p.m., Talent Central

Friday, August 23 – Sunday, August 25, Talent Central

Disney Parks Designer Collection Artist Signing Schedule

Meet the artists behind the latest releases from this exclusive, limited-release collection of Mickey ear hats and Minnie ear headbands:

  • Jerrod Maruyama

Friday, August 23, 4 – 5:30 p.m., Talent Central

Saturday, August 24, 12:30 – 2 p.m., Talent Central  

  • SHAG

Saturday, August 24, 2  – 3:30 p.m., Talent Central  

  • Noah Fine Art

Saturday, August 24, 2  – 3:30 p.m., Talent Central  

  • Ashley Eckstein for Her Universe

Saturday, August 24, 9:30  – 11 a.m., Talent Central  

Sunday, August 25, 5 – 6:45 p.m., Talent Central

 

Race Towards These 8 Comfy Looks from Raw Threads

By Savannah Salazar

Whether you’re a devoted runner, casual jogger, or just doing errands, who doesn’t love being comfortable? We put together a list of the most stylish and comfy picks from Raw Threads; from T-shirts to headbands and skirts, these magical items have a little something for every fan.

If you’re making your way to D23 Expo 2019 next month, be sure to stop by Raw Threads on the show floor and check out all of the awesome merch they’re bringing along. (Plus, if you’re a D23 Gold Member, you’ll be able to get your 15% discount off at their booth!)

Raw Threads

1. Mickey Mouse – The True Original
Men’s Air Stretch Polo
Men’s Crew Shirt
Sideline ¼ Zip
It seems appropriate to start our list with the mouse who started it all. This assortment of shirts and sweaters pays homage to Mickey Mouse! A classic style for a classic character.

Raw Threads

2. Ursula Street V T-Shirt

The Little Mermaid’s 30th anniversary is cause for shell-abration, and we’re swimming with excitement over this T-shirt. Emblazoned with our favorite sea villainess, this shirt is a great addition to your collection of clothing and gizmos.

Raw Threads

3. Headbands
Mickey Mouse Pretzel Headband
Classic Mickey Headband

Wear your fandom proudly on your sleeve, well head, with these two cute designs. Whether you’re a Disney snack fanatic or a quintessential Mickey Mouse fan, here are some headbands to keep your hair in place and Mickey in your heart.

Raw Threads

4. Princess Sweatshirts
Cinderella Riverwalk II Sweatshirt
Snow White Riverwalk II Sweatshirt
Rapunzel Riverwalk II Sweatshirt
Jasmine Riverwalk II Sweatshirt

Staying comfy is key for any princess, so here is a collection of some of our favorite pieces. They’re great for lounging, traveling, and for the occasional sleeping curse.

Raw Threads

5. Gaston Men’s Crew

Maybe no one runs like Gaston but you can look as good as Gaston. With three available colors and a print of our favorite dashing brute, this lightweight shirt is definitely something even Gaston would approve of.

Raw Threads

6. Toy Story 4 Forky This is a Bad Idea Core Racer

If you’ve seen Toy Story 4 and adore Forky as much as we do, here’s your chance to have the newest toy—well, shirt—by your side. Clad with an ever-anxious Forky, this racer is definitely a good idea.

Raw Threads

7. Skirts
Minnie Mouse Fusion Skirt
Mickey Shaped Pizza Fusion Skirt
Running Mickey Mouse Fusion Skirt

From bows to dresses, Minnie Mouse is known for her iconic fashion styles. We picked out some skirts we’re sure our beloved fashionista would love!

Raw Threads

8. Donald Duck and Friends
Tank Top
Core Racer

Of course, we couldn’t forget our favorite duck! This collection of tank tops features our No. 1 duck, as well as some other admired characters, so you can rep your favorite characters in style.

National Geographic Comes to D23 Expo 2019 for the First Time

By D23 Team

For the first time ever, National Geographic is coming to the D23 Expo 2019 show floor. They’ll be inspiring curiosity from a look at what it takes to free solo climb to the top of El Capitan to exploring the “why” behind the “wow” of gray matter. Over the weekend, National Geographic will immerse you in adventure, igniting your curiosities about the world, and surprising you with stories unlike any we’ve ever seen.

National Geographic will bring their talent, explorers, and some very special (and cuddly) four-legged friends. (We can hardly wait, either!) Check out all of the National Geographic experiences you can explore at D23 Expo 2019:

Free Solo

On August 23 from 1 to 2 p.m. get inspired by legendary rock climber Alex Honnold at his book signing. Recently featured in the Academy Award®-winning film Free Solo, Alex documented his climb of the face of 3,200-foot El Capitan in Yosemite National Park…without a rope.

Dr. Pol

Remember those four-legged guests we mentioned? You can find them on August 24 from 4 to 5 p.m. when you meet Dr. Jan Pol from Nat Geo WILD’s No. 1 series, The Incredible Dr. Pol. An average day for him includes checking a cow for pregnancy or helping a goat with pneumonia!

Sue Aikens

Get a taste of the subzero temperatures of Alaska on August 25 from 11 a.m. to noon with Sue Aikens from the multiple Emmy Award®-winning series Life Below Zero. Hear all about her jaw-dropping lifestyle in the remote corners of our northern-most state, as she signs autographs, takes pictures, and shares her incredible tales.

Throughout the weekend, National Geographic is creating a unique experience on the show floor called Beneath the Blue. Beneath the Blue is a breathtaking underwater world that will take you on an incredible journey to explore the oceans and learn more about the impact of single-use plastic on marine life.

In addition to their incredible show floor offerings, National Geographic will also host two panels over the Expo weekend.

Rae Wynn-Grant, Erika Bergman, and Lilly Sedaghat
Rae Wynn-Grant, Erika Bergman, and Lilly Sedaghat

On Saturday, August 24, from 10 to 11 a.m. on Stage 28 learn from women on the front lines of exploration, conservation, and storytelling at WOMEN OF IMPACT: Meet the Nat Geo Explorers Changing the World. They pilot submarines, get up close with lions, tigers, and bears—and even breakdance! Join submersible pilot and founder of a girls’ underwater camp, Erika Bergman; multimedia storyteller and Planet or Plastic ambassador Lilly Sedaghat; and large-carnivore expert Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant to give you a behind-the-scenes glimpse at what it takes to become the next game-changing explorer! 

Keegan-Michael Key and Lior Suchard
Keegan-Michael Key and Lior Suchard

Head over to the D23 Expo Arena on Sunday, August 25, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. for a first look at the reboot of Brain Games, National Geographic’s wildly popular series, during Power Up Your Brain With Keegan-Michael Key. Get ready for those wheels to start turning, because in this panel, you’ll be playing some fun, mind-bending, interactive challenges with Brain Games host Keegan-Michael Key (Toy Story 4, The Lion King). Top-class mentalist Lior Suchard will be joining him on stage, and will no doubt deliver a mind-blowing experience.

Disney+ Casting Update and New Disney Parks Fun—Plus More in News Briefs

By Courtney Potter

Gina Rodriguez joins Diary of a Female President in a recurring role, and a new cavalcade of fun comes to Disneyland park for a very limited time… Read more, along with other news from around Disney, in this week’s news briefs!

Casting Announced for Disney+ Series Diary of a Female President

With the debut of Disney+ just over the horizon, there’s sure to be a wave of announcements about all the incredible shows premiering soon on the streaming platform. Case in point: today’s update regarding Diary of a Female President! With production having started this week in Los Angeles, Disney+ announced that executive producer Gina Rodriguez (Golden Globe®-winning star of Jane the Virgin) will also guest star on the series in a recurring role.

Told from the narration of her diary, Diary of a Female President follows Elena (Tess Romero), a Cuban-American 12-year-old girl, as she navigates the ups and downs of middle school and begins her journey to become the future president of the United States. Rodriguez will play adult Elena, currently on the campaign trail.

But that’s not all… Rodriguez is also directing the first episode of the series, which was developed through her production company, I Can and I Will Productions. Look for more news about Diary of a Female President, as well as other Disney+ shows, in the coming months—leading up to the service’s debut in November!

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

D23 and Walt Disney Archives
July 20, 2019
The Official Walt Disney Studios Tour – Presented by D23
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).

Disneyland

Mickey and Friends Band-Tastic Cavalcade Kicks Off July 18 at Disneyland Park

Summertime is always an amazing time to visit Disneyland Resort (or, honestly, any of the Disney Parks around the world). For instance, there’s a very special, very limited-time event coming to Main Street, U.S.A., at Disneyland park—and it kicks off on Thursday, July 18. Mickey and Friends Band-Tastic Cavalcade will find Mickey Mouse and all his pals joining forces with the incredible Disneyland Band for a delightful twice-daily processional; the route includes special “show moment” stops, where guests will be able to dance and clap along with all manner of Disney favorites.

And just who might you see during this festive, tune-filled frolic? Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, of course… and they’ll be joined by Donald Duck, Goofy, Pluto, and a host of fabulous (and sometimes rarely seen) Disney characters—like Terk from Tarzan and Marie from The Aristocats. You never know who might appear!

So if you’re heading to Disneyland in the next few weeks, do make sure to check out the Mickey and Friends Band-Tastic Cavalcade—appearing only through August 1, when it makes way for the return of the legendary Main Street Electrical Parade.

Opening Dates for Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance Revealed

Did you feel that shift in the Force? That was our friends at Disney Parks making a huge announcement: the opening dates for the much-anticipated Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts! Read all about it right here at D23.com.

The Lion King

Beyoncé Knowles-Carter Curates “The Lion King: The Gift” Album

In advance of the huge worldwide debut of The Lion King, the Jon Favreau-helmed retelling of the animated hit, Disney has announced a brand-new album produced and curated by the voice of Nala herself, superstar Beyoncé Knowles-Carter…

“The Lion King: The Gift” is set to be released on Friday, July 19—the same day The Lion King roars to life at a movie theater near you—and it’ll feature global artists creating music steeped in the incredible sounds of Africa. “Spirit,” the single from the album (as well as the soundtrack for The Lion King), is now available; you can hear a preview, or find it on your favorite streaming service by clicking here.

First Look at Disney’s Mulan

Just last weekend, fans around the world were able to feast their collective eyes on a brand-new teaser trailer for Disney’s Mulan, set to bring honor to us all next year. If you haven’t yet seen the clip, or you’re needing a second (or fifth) viewing, check it out above!

When the Emperor of China issues a decree that one man per family must serve in the Imperial Army to defend the country from Northern invaders, Hua Mulan (Yifei Liu)—the eldest daughter of an honored warrior—steps in to take the place of her ailing father. Masquerading as a man, Hua Jun, she is tested every step of the way and must harness her inner strength and embrace her true potential. It’s an epic journey that will transform her into an honored warrior and earn her the respect of a grateful nation… and a proud father. The incredible international cast also features Donnie Yen as Commander Tung; Jason Scott Lee as Böri Khan; Yoson An as Cheng Honghui; Gong Li as Xianniang; and Jet Li as the Emperor. Directed by Niki Caro, with a screenplay by Rick Jaffa & Amanda Silver and Elizabeth Martin & Lauren Hynek (based on the narrative poem “The Ballad of Mulan”), Mulan is set for release in March 2020.

Amazing New Look at Maleficent: Mistress of Evil

It’s not long now ’til we reacquaint ourselves with Maleficent, that iconic anti-hero as portrayed by Angelina Jolie, in the sequel to Disney’s hit 2014 action adventure of the same name. And this week, we were lucky enough to get an all-new look at Maleficent: Mistress of Evil. Watch the breathtaking new trailer for yourself, above!

Picking up several years after the first film—in which we learned of the events that hardened Maleficent’s heart and drove her to curse a baby Princess Aurora (Elle Fanning)—Maleficent: Mistress of Evil explores the complex relationship between the horned fairy and the soon-to-be queen as they form new alliances and face new adversaries… all in their struggle to protect the moors and the magical creatures that reside within. Also starring Michelle Pfeiffer as Queen Ingrith, and directed by Joachim Rønning (from a story by Linda Woolverton and a screenplay by Linda Woolverton and Micah Fitzerman-Blue & Noah Harpster), Maleficent: Mistress of Evil will debut in theaters October 18.

Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort: Now Open!

We’ve got a distinct feeling this is truly gonna be a Disney summer to remember, what with the recent opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland park; its upcoming opening at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort; the return of the Main Street Electrical Parade; and D23 Expo 2019 in a few weeks (so exciting!), just to name a few! And here’s something else to add to that memorable list: the grand opening of a brand-new tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort.

The opening of the Gran Destino Tower completes Coronado Springs’ amazing multiyear re-imagining, which also includes new restaurants, a new way to experience your arrival to the resort, and so much more. The new tower, themed after the iconic international art scene of the 1920s and ’30s, boasts 545 guest rooms (including 50 suites and club-level service), a two-story lobby, brand-new meeting rooms, new loungers, and a rooftop restaurant with breathtaking views of Lago Dorado (“Golden Lake”) and the surrounding area.

Take a gander at the recent Gran Destino Tower opening celebration in the new video from our friends at Disney Parks, above. We can’t wait to check it out in person!

ICYMI: 7 Disney Things You Need to Try in July

Honestly, there is a veritable smorgasbord of ridiculously cool things happening around the world of Disney in the next few weeks. In a recent D23.com article, we took a look at a few things you absolutely, positively must try during the month of July. Read all about ’em right here!