Mark Your Calendars: ABC’s Fall Premiere Dates are Here—Plus More in News Briefs

By Courtney Potter

ABC announces premiere dates for new shows and returning favorites, and Freeform prepares for its September programming event… Read more, along with other news from around Disney, in this week’s news briefs!

ABC

Fall Premiere Dates Announced for ABC’s 2019-20 Season

There’s nothing like the start of a fresh new season on television, right? And the debut of ABC’s 2019-20 Season is right around the corner—so make sure to mark your calendars with the following just-announced premiere dates! It all starts with the return of ABC’s iconic Dancing with the Stars in mid-September…

Monday, September 16
8-10 p.m.       Dancing with the Stars (Season 28 premiere)

Monday, September 23
10-11 p.m.     The Good Doctor (Season 3 premiere)

Tuesday, September 24
8-8:30 p.m.    The Conners (Season 2 premiere)
8:30-9 p.m.    Bless This Mess (Season 2 premiere; new time)
9-9:30 p.m.    mixed-ish (Series premiere)
9:30-10 p.m.  black-ish (Season 6 premiere; new time)
10-11 p.m.     Emergence (Series premiere)

Wednesday, September 25
8-8:30 p.m.    The Goldbergs (Season 7 premiere)
8:30-9 p.m.    Schooled (Season 2 premiere)
9-9:30 p.m.    Modern Family (Season 11 premiere)
9:30-10 p.m.  Single Parents (Season 2 premiere)
10-11 p.m.     Stumptown (Series premiere)

Thursday, September 26
8-9 p.m.         Grey’s Anatomy (Season 16 premiere)
9-10 p.m.       A Million Little Things (Season 2 premiere)
10-11 p.m.     How to Get Away with Murder (Season 6 premiere)

Friday, September 27
8-8:30 p.m.    American Housewife (Season 4 premiere; new day/time)
8:30-9 p.m.    Fresh Off the Boat (Season 6 premiere; new time)
9-11 p.m.       20/20

Sunday, September 29
7-8 p.m.         America’s Funniest Home Videos (Season 30 premiere)
9-10 p.m.       Shark Tank (Season 11 premiere)
10-11 p.m.     The Rookie (Season 2 premiere, new day and time)

Sunday, October 6
8-9 p.m.         Kids Say the Darndest Things (Series premiere)

For more information on ABC’s brand-new shows (as well as what’s to come from Freeform, FX Networks, National Geographic, and more), check out D23’s recent 2019-20 TV Season coverage.

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).

Freeform

Freeform Preps for September’s 30 Days of Disney with Fan Photo Contest

Well, friends, July is here… Temps are a-sizzlin’, backyard hammocks are a-strung, and summer is officially a-bloomin’ around the country. But, like our pals at ABC just revealed, that doesn’t mean plans aren’t already in the works for a fabulously fun fall throughout the worlds of Disney. In fact, Freeform has just kicked off a contest to prepare for their upcoming 30 Days of Disney programming event this September.

In anticipation of 30 Days of Disney, from now ’til July 30, Freeform is asking folks to submit photos or videos in one of three categories: Disney bounding, Disney cosplay, and your best Disney moment. Freeform will then feature some of these pics and clips on the air—and across their social media accounts—during the month of September. Pretty cool, right?

For your chance to be featured, submit your photos and videos at Freeform.com/30DaysofDisney… and stay tuned for more info on the programming event—which is sure to be chockablock with all your favorite Disney films—as September approaches.

Pixar Pier’s Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind Now Open!

Time truly flies when you’re having fun… It’s already been a year since Pixar Pier, at Disney California Adventure park, started delighting guests young and young-at-heart. And what better way to celebrate the big “1” than with a spin on its latest attraction!

Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind opened with appropriately colorful pomp and circumstance last Friday, June 28; inspired by the hit Disney and Pixar animated film Inside Out, the attraction takes guests on a “sense-ational” journey aboard one of eight Memory Movers—where you’ll help Riley’s Emotions (Joy, Sadness, Disgust, Anger, and Fear) sort through some brand-new collected memories.

See the attraction in action in the new clip, above, courtesy our friends at Disney Parks Blog. And happiest of anniversaries to Pixar Pier! Adventure is certainly out there…

Main Street Electrical Parade

Disneyland Welcomes Back the Main Street Electrical Parade

Attractions like Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind aren’t the only reason to visit Disneyland Resort this summer. There are so many, in fact, that we’d be here ’til Thanksgiving if we named them all. But here’s one that you must enjoy if you’re heading to Disneyland park in the near future: the Main Street Electrical Parade! This legendary fan favorite is returning to Main Street, U.S.A., for a special limited-time encore engagement beginning August 2.

This incredible “spectacular festival pageant of nighttime magic and imagination”—with its half-million twinkling lights and “electro-syntho-magnetic musical sounds”—will be offering nightly performances through September 30. (We’re particularly excited to see Elliott from Pete’s Dragon again; he might be our favorite parade float of all time!) So don’t miss your chance to fall under the Electrical Parade’s spell once more… actually, if you’re coming to town for D23 Expo 2019, might we suggest a quick jaunt to Disneyland one evening? We’ll see ya there!

Walt Disney World’s Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue Celebrates 45 Years of Musical Mayhem

It may be hard to believe, but fans of Walt Disney World Resort have been singing the praises of the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue (at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort) for nigh on five decades! The dinner theater show—one of the longest-running in American history, by the way—opened on June 30, 1974, and it’s become a treasured tradition for generations of resort guests.

Our pals at the Disney Parks Blog recently visited the Revue to chat with its director, as well as several of its cast members, about what makes the show such a special part of Walt Disney World history. Check out the clip, above… we promise you’ll be dreaming of that delicious fried chicken before it’s through.

Halle Bailey Cast as Ariel in Live-Action Reimagining of The Little Mermaid

by Zach Johnson

Halle Bailey is ready to explore the fathoms below. Today, Walt Disney Studios announced the actress, best known for her role on the Freeform series grown-ish, has been cast as Ariel in Disney’s upcoming live-action reimagining of The Little Mermaid. The film will be directed by Rob Marshall and produced by Marshall, John DeLuca, Marc Platt, and Lin-Manuel Miranda. The film will feature beloved songs from the animated classic by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman, as well as new songs by Menken (music) and Miranda (lyrics).

“After an extensive search, it was abundantly clear that Halle possesses that rare combination of spirit, heart, youth, innocence, and substance—plus a glorious singing voice—all intrinsic qualities necessary to play this iconic role,” says Marshall.

Production is anticipated to begin in early 2020.

Additional announcements regarding The Little Mermaid are expected in the coming weeks.

7 Things You Need to Do Right Now at Disneyland

By Jocelyn Buhlman

Walt Disney’s original theme park holds the place in Disney fans’ memories as one of the ultimate summer destinations, but now more than ever it’s time to create new memories! With groundbreaking additions to the park now open and old favorites returning for a limited time only, you’ll experience the adventure of a lifetime if you visit Disneyland Resort this summer. Need help planning that next trip? Here’s 7 of our favorite must-try things that should be on your itinerary when you visit Disneyland Resort now:

Disney Princess breakfast at Napa Rose

1. Enjoy a Disney Princess Breakfast Adventure at Napa Rose
We recommend you begin your day with the maximum amount of Disney magic: enjoying a delicious 3-course breakfast with your favorite princesses! This new dining experience at the rustic Napa Rose inside Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is perfect for all the royally special people in your life. Start your experience with a special photo moment before enjoying your three delicious courses (including appetizers, a main course, and a Princess-themed selection of desserts). The fun doesn’t end there, as guests who have completed their sumptuous breakfast are invited outside to hear a story from a fan-favorite Princess before saying, “Farewell!” with a personal Princess portrait moment. Everyone leaves with a special keepsake—and memories you’ll be talking about for a long time.

Hyperspace Mountain

2. Experience Hyperspace Mountain’s Out-of-This-World Return
Listen, we know the top of everyone’s must-do list is Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, but before you make the lightspeed jump to Batuu, head over Tomorrowland to revisit a favorite: For a limited time this summer, hurtle through hyperspace with the return of Hyperspace Mountain. Zoom past TIE fighters and X-Wings all to the sounds of John Williams’ iconic score. Don’t miss this chance to experience this high-speed adventure through the Star Wars

Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge

3. Destination: Beautiful Batuu
Much has already been said about the largest single-themed land expansion in Disney Parks history, but Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is truly the one-stop location for your own Star Wars You’re the hero in this story, so what will you do first? Explore the busy marketplace (and maybe take home a new pet—or two), learn to spy with Resistance, create your very own droid companion, dine on the galaxy’s most mouthwatering morsels, finally sample blue milk—and so much more! As soon as you set foot in Batuu, you can count on adventure like never before.

Soarin' Over California

4. Take Flight with Soarin’ Over California
What can compare to a visit to a galaxy far, far away? How about a trip to someplace equally as beautiful—but maybe a little closer? The epic (and beloved) aerial adventure Soarin’ Over California is back for a limited time this summer, and you can’t miss your chance to revisit this Disney California Adventure classic. This breathtaking virtual tour celebrates the beauty and wonder of the Golden State—from San Francisco’s iconic Golden Gate Bridge to the crashing waves in Malibu, ending with a fireworks-filled finale at (where else?) Disneyland! The 80-foot projection dome that simulates the graceful motion of flight is guaranteed to wow you again and again as you explore the gorgeous sights of California.

Tale of the Lion King

5. Watch “Tale of The Lion King”
Celebrate 25 years of the beloved characters and music of Disney’s The Lion King with this highly theatrical new adaptation of this timeless story. “Tale of the Lion King” presents The Lion King as an outdoor musical, featuring actors, singers, and drummers—who form an ensemble called the Storytellers of the Pride Lands. Enjoy live music, dancing, and special surprises from this limited-run show at Disney California Adventure.

Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind and Jessie's Critter Carousel

6. Play at Pixar Pier
Ring in this whimsical land’s one-year anniversary by trying a new attraction in the land’s Inside Out Headquarters neighborhood. Having just opened this summer, Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind will spin you through the workplace of Riley’s Emotions—Joy, Sadness, Fear, Disgust, and Anger. You’ll be swept away in your Memory Mover, and enjoy a view of the completed Pixar Pier as you whirl through your feelings.

Fans of Toy Story 4 will be delighted to discover that Bo Beep is visiting Pixar Pier this summer, as well, ready to make new friends and enjoy new adventures. If you see her in Pixar Pier’s Toy Story Boardwalk neighborhood, make sure to say “Howdy” and snap a picture before she starts her next exploration.

While you’re in the Toy Story Boardwalk neighborhood, why not hop on Jessie’s Critter Carousel, the newly reimagined attraction starring Jessie, the yodeling cowgirl, and her desert critter friends? Saddle up, hop on, and practice your “yeeha,” because this roundup guarantees a good time.

Disneyland Forever fireworks

7. End the Night with “Disneyland Forever”
Is there any better way to end a day at Disneyland than with fireworks? This captivating spectacular returns for the summer, showing just how happy the Happiest Place on Earth can be. The sky-high celebration brings back the sparkling pyrotechnics, immersive projections, and other effects that transform Disneyland into a magical canvas, taking guests on a breathtaking journey through your favorite Disney films—and Disneyland itself!

Even more magic is set for later this summer—our friends at Disney Parks Blog recently announced that the Main Street Electrical Parade will be lighting up Disneyland from August 2 to September 30. Mark your calendars for the de-LIGHT-ful return of classic parade.

Your itinerary is set, the time is now, so what are you waiting for? Visit Disneyland today for can’t-miss new experiences and memories that will last a lifetime.

Mickey and the Roadster Racers Gets a Surprising Special Guest

By Beth Deitchman

For years, he’s shocked audiences with his inimitable on-stage theatrics, but now Alice Cooper might have an even bigger surprise for fans. The legendary rock star is lending his voice to a character created just for him. Fans can meet Alistair Coop De Ville in a new episode of Mickey and the Roadster Racers airing Friday, July 5 (8–8:30 a.m. ET/PT) on Disney Channel and DisneyNOW.

Alistair, an old family friend of Goofy, joins forces with Goofy, his Uncle Goof, and Donald for an adventure set in the jungles of Peru, where they go in search of a legendary treasure. In creating the guest role, the artists looked to Cooper’s real-life rock persona for animation inspiration. “It’s so funny that they have a snake coming out of my top hat, the two things that Alice is known for,” shares Cooper, who is thrilled to play a character that’s so endearing. “Generally when I play parts in movies or TV, I’m always the villain,” he explains. “It’s kind of nice to not be the villain for once.”

Mickey and the Roadster Racers

It might surprise Disney fans to discover that Cooper is a longtime Disney fan. The movies and TV series were—and continue to be—an important part of his life. “Sunday was, when it was time for Disney, it was Davy Crockett,” he recalls. “I couldn’t wait for that theme song. You never grow out of that. Now that I have grandsons, when they come over, we sit and we watch Mickey Mouse and Disney and all the different offshoots of it. The themes are always really wholesome,1 which is great.”

Goofy holds a special place in the rocker’s heart, and he was over the moon to find himself acting alongside Disney Legend Bill Farmer, who voices Goofy. “When we were kids, the funniest thing in the world was [Goofy yelling] ‘WA-HA-HOOEY.’ I would laugh so hard at that,” Cooper says. “Even into my teens, when the band was on the road, every once in a while something would happen and someone would say ‘WA-HA-HOOEY.’ It was something that never grew old. I’m going to have Bill make that my ringtone.” You can see Alistair Coop De Ville in action—and hear a dream-come-true moment for Alice Cooper, in this exclusive clip:

There’s another Mickey and the Roadster Racers character that Cooper thinks could have a future in rock ‘n’ roll. When asked which Disney character he’d like to have in his band, Cooper revealed that Donald Duck just might have what it takes. “He’s more of a troublemaker. He doesn’t just sit back, he has a fast temper. Mickey is always calming things down, but Donald Duck is a reactionist,” Cooper said.

How will Donald react to Alistair Coop De Ville? Tune in to Mickey and the Roadster Racers this Friday for the newest adventure.

Our 23 MUST-SEE Looks from D23 Expo 2017

by Karina Schink

Whether you go all out in scavenger gear for those rough Jakku sandstorms, or you love to take a simple yellow tee and strap together a perfect outfit for all the adventure that’s out there, D23 Expo is the best time to wear your fandom on your sleeve… or shirt, or pants, or even a full gown.

With D23 Expo 2019 less than two months away, we wanted to make sure you had all the inspiration you need to create your perfect Expo outfit (the pixie dust is all on you this time).

Demigods and princesses aplenty

Belles and Tinks galore

Once upon a Mousequerade

Don’t tell them, but they’re about to go over a huge waterfall

Vanellope von Expo

We know who you are

Some snipe-tastic explorers

Right out of Jakku

Their outfits are anything but plane

Someday my Jedi will come

Balance of power… line

A whole new world of Padawans

A force-filled team

Roll out the magic carpet

Rock ‘n’ Royalty

When you wish upon an Expo

Oh look. Another glorious costume.

We hope they hurrrry baaaack

He’s just a kid from Brooklyn

And the cards say… make it blue!

Princess Kidagakash, but you can call her Kida

The snow glows white at Expo tonight

Oh right, the costumes, the costumes to kill Kuzco, the costumes chosen specifically to kill Kuzco

Be Prepared… with Tickets for The Lion King—Plus More in News Briefs

By Courtney Potter

The Pride Lands get a new soundtrack, and the Avengers assemble once more in theaters… Read more, along with other news from around Disney, in this week’s news briefs!

The Lion King: Tickets On Sale Now—Plus Soundtrack and TV Special News

The Pride Lands are officially on the horizon now that tickets for The Lion King (directed by soon-to-be-inducted Disney Legend Jon Favreau) are on sale. We still have to wait ’til July 19 to actually see it all unfold on the big screen… but here’s some fun news to tide you over: Details about the film’s soundtrack have been released!

We were particularly excited to learn that the soundtrack—the digital version of which will be available beginning at 8 a.m. PT on July 11, with the physical album available for pre-order now and set for release concurrent with the film—will feature a brand-new song, “Never Too Late,” written by the 1994 animated hit’s Oscar®-winning team, Elton John and Tim Rice. Sung by John, accompanied by an African choir, the song will appear over the film’s end credits. The Lion King original motion picture soundtrack features new recordings of the original songs written by John and Rice, as well as a score by Oscar-winning composer Hans Zimmer; African vocal and choir arrangements by Grammy®-winning South African producer and composer Lebo M; and several songs produced by Grammy winner Pharrell Williams. Stars of the film—including Donald Glover, Beyoncé, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Seth Rogen, and JD McCrary—all lend their voices to the iconic tunes.

Robin Roberts and Jon Favreau

But that’s not all: Good Morning America co-anchor (and Favreau’s fellow 2019 Disney Legend inductee) Robin Roberts will host a new primetime special, all about The Lion King’s timeless appeal, airing Tuesday, July 16, at 8 p.m. ET on ABC. The Lion King: Can You Feel The Love Tonight with Robin Roberts will feature interviews with cast and crew; special behind-the-scenes footage; and the debut of an exclusive unreleased scene from the new movie!

Mark your calendars for a truly “Hakuna Matata”-filled time, these next few weeks…

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).

Avengers: Endgame

Marvel Studios’ Avengers: Endgame Returns to Theaters This Friday, June 28

Itching to see the year’s biggest movie one more time on the big screen, before it finishes its theatrical run? You’re in luck—because our friends at Marvel Studios are inviting fans to see Avengers: Endgame beginning Friday, June 28, during their Bring Back event… and to sweeten the deal, for every ticket bought, fans will receive an exclusive piece of Avengers art! (While supplies last and in select theaters.)

Plus, fans will also be treated to a brand-new video introduction by director Anthony Russo; an unfinished deleted scene from the film; and, in case all that wasn’t cool enough, a chance for fans to get a jump on the upcoming Marvel Studios’ Spider-Man: Far From Home with a special sneak peek.

So assemble your friends and family and purchase your tickets for the Bring Back event post haste—they’re available wherever movie tickets are sold.

D23 Helps Cinderella Celebrate an Amazing Honor…

Back in December 2018, Disney’s iconic 1950 animated film Cinderella was inducted into the National Film Registry at the Library of Congress—and just last week, D23 Members joined with the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Washington (as well as a few members of Congress!) to celebrate the momentous occasion. Read up on all the festive fun right here at D23.com.

Aulani

Rainbow Reef Unveils New Close-Up Encounters at Aulani Resort

Should you and your family or friends be whisking yourselves across the Pacific Ocean to Hawaii, do make sure to check out some incredible new activities available to guests at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa!

The resort already boasts Rainbow Reef, the only private snorkeling lagoon on the island of O’ahu, where swimmers get up close to Hawaiian reef fish. But now—as just announced by our friends at the Disney Park Blog—the reef is offering two brand-new programs. Underwater Explorers is perfect for those guests who want to have a scuba-like experience but are not yet scuba certified; in the two-hour experience, guests start with a 25-minute lesson on the basics of scuba equipment, diving, and safety procedures, followed by practice of the dive skills just learned, and then a free swim through beautiful Rainbow Reef waters—where you’ll catch a glimpse of colorful marine life. Meanwhile, the Rainbow Reef Fish Feeding Experience is a cool new way to have an up-close interaction with (not to mention learn about) the many tropical fish who call Aulani’s local waters home. The resort’s animal programs biologists start with an introduction of Rainbow Reef fish, followed by a unique chance to feed them—as well as the opportunity to take a memorable souvenir photo!

To find out more about these incredible new Rainbow Reef experiences, visit the Aulani website.

ICYMI: Frozen on Broadway Sings for its Summer

Frozen on Broadway is getting into the summer spirit in a big way, with not one… not two… but three fabulous new music videos! The cool acoustic clips feature several of the show’s stars—including Ryann Redmond, the talented actress currently portraying sunny, funny Olaf in the production. Check ’em all out here at D23.com!

Magic Kingdom patriotic fireworks

Celebrate the Fourth of July with Magic Kingdom Fireworks

 It’s true: The fireworks spectaculars at Disney Parks are just that—spectacular. Especially on the Fourth of July, when filling the sky with color is expected… nay, encouraged! Naturally, you can imagine the pomp and circumstance coming to Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts next week.

Thankfully, fans and friends at home can get into the celebratory spirit. How, you may ask? Well, Magic Kingdom Park’s big Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky spectacular will be livestreamed on the Disney Parks Blog, beginning at 9:13 p.m. ET! And tune in early for some extra summertime fun.

So fire up the grill, get some hot dogs (or veggie burgers) sizzlin’, mix up a batch of your grandma’s world-famous macaroni salad, and get ready to “oooh” and “ahhh” with all your (virtual) pals at the Magic Kingdom.

Meet the Happy Campers of Disney Channel’s Hit Comedy BUNK’D

By Savannah Salazar

School’s out, and summer camp is in session. Disney Channel’s fan-favorite series BUNK’D is back for another summer, well… season, of hilarious antics as former Woodchuck counselor Lou Hockhauser takes up the mantle as the new owner of Camp Kikiwaka. Along with returning campers Destiny, Finn, and Matteo, she welcomes three new additions to the Kikiwaka family: counselors Ava and Noah and Gwen—who may be new to the camp, but she’s a veteran when it comes to “roughing it.” (More on that later!)

We recently went to Camp Kikiwaka (by way of the series’ Hollywood set), where we spoke with the BUNK’D cast. The live-action comedy just kicked off its fourth season, which airs Thursdays (8 p.m. EDT/PDT) on Disney Channel and DisneyNOW.

BUNK'D

Miranda May stars as Lou, the always enthusiastic and newly minted camp director. After buying Camp Kikiwaka last season for a whopping one dollar from the Ross kids, May shares that despite the excitement, her character struggles with the transition. “For Lou, the biggest challenge is taking on a different kind of responsibility,” she says. “It’s her first time not being a Woodchuck, so handing over that baton has been difficult for her.”

Lou isn’t the only one adjusting to a new role on BUNK’D this season. After three seasons as a central supporting character on BUNK’D, May is now the lead actress of the series. “It didn’t even hit me that that was what I was doing until our first episode aired last week, and I saw my name go across the screen first,” she says with a laugh. “As strange as that is, that was the moment I was like oh, I’m supposed to be leading this show!”

Actress Shelby Simmons joins in on the fun of Kikiwaka, taking over Lou’s position, as the new Woodchuck cabin counselor named Ava. This city girl may seem intimidating but that’s not always the case for Ava. “She came to it not really knowing what she was getting into, but I love how it grows. Ava really bonds with her campers and becomes not quite a mom, not quite a leader figure, but a big sister,” Simmons says.

BUNK'D

Ava’s campers are Gwen (Scarlett Estevez)—a new camper who has lived her life entirely off-the-grid—and Destiny (Mallory James Mahoney). On-screen, the two form a tight bond as Destiny teaches Gwen about life on-the-grid—from a simple light switch to the World Wide Web. “She becomes one of Gwen’s really close friends. They go through a lot together,” Estevez says, and she promises that the season features a lot of wacky adventures for the Woodchuck pair.

Woodchuck cabin isn’t the only cabin with a new counselor. Noah is played by Israel Johnson—a talented actor who is having a blast playing an actor who might not be quite as talented. “Noah is a terrible actor. He is bad on a whole different scale but I knew I could do Noah as a bad actor because when I was young, I would be super cringe-y at auditions,” he shares. “So, I took my younger self and put it into Noah.”

The first episode of the season finds returning campers Matteo and Finn—played by Raphael Alejandro and Will Buie Jr., respectively—a little resistant to their new Grizzly counselor. Johnson understands, explaining that Noah doesn’t know if he’s a good counselor or not. “It’s tough being a counselor. It’s a real job!” he says with a laugh. “It’s interesting because my campers, Finn and Matteo, are both so different.”

BUNK'D

Matteo has a more cautious demeanor while Finn doesn’t think twice. “He is maturing a bit, but he does still have his wild moments,” Buie says. They bring out the best in each other, but Alejandro and Buie say they still have a lot to learn this season. “He gets to grow and learn more about friendship while bonding with the new campers and counselors at camp,” Alejandro says of Matteo.

The series may have a few new kids on the trail but the cast is in agreement that it hasn’t taken long to form that familial camp bond. “It’s kind of interesting walking into this like the new kid at school,” Simmons explains. “It’s weird the first day but you always meet those one or two people that welcome you and that’s what happened with everyone here.” Johnson laughs, stressing, “They’re really open. They were like, you’re here now, you’re part of the family!”

Speaking of family, when asked which Disney characters would be great camp mates, the cast brought up some fun suggestions. “I’ve been watching Disney Channel since The Suite Life of Zack and Cody. We’ve actually had Phil Lewis direct for us, and it’d be awesome for him to come to Camp Kikiwaka as Mr. Moseby,” Mallory James Mahoney says. The first person on May’s list is Cadet Captain Jennifer Stone, Christy Carlson Romano’s character from the popular Disney Channel Original Movie Cadet Kelly. “It would be so funny to see the kids with that sort of intense structure,” she says. And Buie’s choice may be a sentimental favorite for some BUNK’D fans. He shares, “I’ve been a super-huge fan of Jessie since it first came out, so having Jessie herself at camp would be super fun.”

Production Begins on Disney+ Original Movie Flora & Ulysses

By Zach Johnson

This week, production started in Vancouver on Walt Disney Pictures’ Flora & Ulysses, directed by Lena Khan and based on Kate DiCamillo’s Newberry Award-winning children’s book Flora & Ulysses: The Illuminated Adventures. The movie is being produced for the upcoming streaming service Disney+, which launches in the U.S. November 12 and will be the streaming destination for movies and TV shows from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic, and more.

Disney+

Flora & Ulysses tells the story of 10-year-old Flora, an avid comic book fan and a self-avowed cynic, who saves a squirrel she names Ulysses only to have its unique superhero powers wreak havoc in a series of humorous, antic-filled adventures that ultimately change Flora’s life—and her outlook—forever. Matilda Lawler, who stars on Broadway as Honor Carney in the Tony® Award–winning play The Ferryman, will make her feature film debut as Flora. Alyson Hannigan will play her romance-writer mother, Phyllis, and Ben Schwartz will play her world-weary, estranged father, George. Newcomer Benjamin Evans Ainsworth will play William, Flora’s new (and annoying) friend, and Danny Pudi will play Miller, an overly zealous animal control officer.

Alyson Hannigan and Ben Schwartz
Alyson Hannigan and Ben Schwartz

Academy Award®–nominated Gil Netter serves as the film’s producer, and James Powers and Katterli Frauenfelder serve as executive producers on Flora & Ulysses. Oher crew members include director of photography Andrew Dunn, production designer Michael Fitzgerald, editor Lee Haxall, and costume designer Mona May. Brad Copeland adapted the novel for the screen.

Want more Disney+ news? Click here to stay up-to-date with what’s streaming!

Broadway’s Brightest Stars Will Light Up the Stage at D23 Expo 2019

by D23 team

Now is the time to seize the day because Disney on Broadway is returning to D23 Expo 2019 to present an exclusive concert, Disney on Broadway: A 25th Anniversary Celebration in Hall D23 on Saturday, August 24, at 3:30 p.m.

Disney on Broadway in Concert

Hosted by Tony® Award-nominee Gavin Lee (Mary Poppins, Beauty and the Beast), the 75-minute concert will feature Heidi Blickenstaff (Freaky Friday, The Little Mermaid), Ashley Brown (Mary Poppins, Beauty and the Beast, On the Record), Kissy Simmons (The Lion King), Josh Strickland (Tarzan®), and Alton Fitzgerald White (The Lion King).

(L-R) Ashley Brown, Kissy Simmons, and Gavin Lee
(L-R) Ashley Brown, Kissy Simmons, and Gavin Lee

A six-piece band, led by Jim Abbott, will accompany performers as they lead veteran Broadway buffs and new fans alike through Disney on Broadway’s Tony Award-winning catalogue, featuring songs from Beauty and the Beast, The Lion King, Aida, Tarzan, Mary Poppins, The Little Mermaid, Newsies, Aladdin, Freaky Friday, and Frozen.

(L-R) Josh Strickland, Alton Fitzgerald White, and Heidi Blickenstaff
(L-R) Josh Strickland, Alton Fitzgerald White, and Heidi Blickenstaff

If you want an opportunity to step into your own starring role, you can head over to the D23 Expo floor where Disney on Broadway will premiere a new virtual reality (VR) experience. This brand-new VR theatre puts you center stage in Aladdin, Frozen, and The Lion King’s biggest Broadway production numbers, featuring Broadway’s Caissie Levy (Elsa), Major Attaway (Genie), Telly Leung (Aladdin), and Tshidi Manye (Rafiki).

So warm up your vocals, get into costume, and get ready to break a leg at D23 Expo 2019!

Expo Attendees: Earn an Exclusive Marvel Medal with runDisney Virtual Marathon Challenge

by Karina Schink

At D23 Expo 2019, we’re all about the biggest fans. The biggest Disney fans, the biggest Pixar fans, and the biggest Marvel fans—and that’s exactly who the runDisney Virtual 5K event is for. From now until D23 Expo in August, you can sign up for the 2019 runDisney Virtual 5K, celebrating 80 years of Marvel!

If you are attending the D23 Expo 2019* in Anaheim this August, you can sign up for the August Virtual 5K here and collect your Black Panther-inspired medal at the Ultimate Disney Fan Event (where you can wear it proudly, of course!). And as an extra bonus, all of you Expo runners will be getting an exclusive commemorative item.

Whether you prefer to cover your distance at your local park, on your favorite hiking trail, at the gym, or even at D23 Expo (we promise you’ll break more than three miles checking out all the awesome exhibits), this challenge is the heroic endeavor we know you can take on.

To make your run more fun, Walt Disney Records has put together a Spotify playlist to keep your feet moving along, all the way to the finish line.

*D23 Expo runDisney Virtual August 5K registration is subject to capacity limits and may close at any time. Commemorative medal must be picked up by registered participant at the runDisney expo booth during the D23 Expo, August 23–25, 2019. Valid ID and proof of race registration is required. Admission to D23 Expo is required.