Star Wars Celebration Europe Went Rogue—Plus More in News Briefs

July 20, 2016July 20, 2016

By Courtney Potter

Star Wars Celebration Europe Teases Rogue One: A Star Wars Story

Just this past weekend, Star Wars fans from literally all over the globe descended upon London for several days of fantastic, force-full fun… and thankfully, for those of us who were unable to attend in person, the Internet is now chock-full of brand-new Star Wars-related goodies. Exciting announcements included the casting of actor Alden Ehrenreich as young Han Solo in Phil Lord and Chris Miller’s upcoming Star Wars spinoff, as well as an illuminating panel with Episode VIII director Rian Johnson. But perhaps most notably, Star Wars Celebration Europe presented us with our first in-depth look at Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, the latest Star Wars film—set shortly before the events of Episode IV: A New Hope—coming to theaters this winter. First off, there’s the film’s brand-new teaser poster, above. There’s just so much to take in from the image… the palm trees; the Stormtroopers walking through knee-deep water; the cool new droid on the far left; the massive Death Star in the background… what does it all mean? We cannot wait to find out!

While it may not answer all those burning questions, there’s also a new “Celebration Reel” featurette (above), which takes an amazing behind-the-scenes look at the making of the film. You’ll hear from director Gareth Edwards, as well as star Felicity Jones and perennial Star Wars favorite Warwick Davis. Looks like they’re taking a page from Star Wars: The Force Awakens with all kinds of practical (i.e. non-“green screen”) effects…

Rogue One: A Star Wars Story—also featuring Diego Luna, Forest Whitaker, and Alan Tudyk—takes your local cineplex by storm on December 16.

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

D23 and Walt Disney Archives
August 20
The Reluctant Dragon 75th Anniversary on the Lot
August 22
D23 Presents Aloha Aulani!
October 5
D23’s Sip & Scream
October 5
D23 Behind-the-Scenes Experience: A Midnight Soirée at the Tower of Terror
November 19–20
D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures
July 14-16, 2017
D23 Expo 2017
Studios
August 12, 2016
Pete’s Dragon opens in theaters
September 23, 2016
Queen of Katwe opens in theaters
November 4, 2016
Moana opens in theaters
November 23, 2016
Doctor Strange opens in theaters
December 16, 2016
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story opens in theaters

Parks
September 2, 8, 11, 13, 16, 18, 20, 23, 25, 29, 30; October 2, 4, 6, 7, 10, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 21, 23, 25, 27, 28, 30, 31
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World Resort
November 7, 8, 10, 11, 13, 15, 18, 27, 29; December 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 9, 11, 13, 15, 16, 18, 22
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Walt Disney World Resort
September 2–October 29 (Friday and Saturday Nights, plus October 31)
Club Villain, special ticketed event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
September 14–November 14, 2016
Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
Television
July 22
Elena of Avalor premieres on Disney Channel at 7 p.m. ET/PT

New Trailer for Star Wars Rebels Season Three

You didn’t think the news out of Star Wars Celebration Europe would stop with nifty Rogue One fun, did you? Au contraire! A brand-new trailer for Season Three of Disney XD’s Star Wars Rebels also debuted, and with it came some really big hints of what’s to come!

The new season will introduce characters Grand Admiral Thrawn—a fan-favorite from Star Wars Legends, voiced by House of Cards co-star Lars Mikkelsen—and Bendu, an ancient and powerful new character voiced by classic Doctor Who actor Tom Baker. Additionally, the trailer also signals a much larger leadership role for the series’ rebel firebrand, Sabine Wren (voiced by Tiya Sircar), whose Mandalorian roots will also be further explored.

Look for Star Wars Rebels Season Three this fall on Disney XD.

Elena of Avalor Adds More Disney Dazzle to Friday’s Premiere!

As if this Friday’s premiere of Disney Channel’s latest animated series, Elena of Avalor, wasn’t enough, they’ve gone and added a heapin’ spoonful of special Disney previews to the mix!

Two consecutive episodes will debut, simultaneously on both Disney Channel and Disney Junior, from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. EDT—with limited interruption. Additionally, the night’s special content will include a first look at the upcoming animated short-form series LEGO Frozen Northern Lights; an exclusive scene from Disney’s Pete’s Dragon (opening in theaters August 12); and the TV premiere of the live-action Beauty and the Beast teaser trailer. Yowza! Truly an embarrassment of riches…

Set in the enchanted fairytale land of Avalor, Elena of Avalor tells the story of a brave and adventurous teenager who has saved her kingdom from an evil sorceress—and must now learn to rule as crown princess until she’s old enough to be queen. Elena’s journey will lead her to understand that her new role requires thoughtfulness, resilience, and compassion, the traits of all truly great leaders.

Dining Gets Muppet-y at Disney’s Hollywood Studios This Fall

The Muppets Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios gets a makeover this fall as PizzeRizzo—a new casual Italian-American dining experience—opens in the former Toy Story Pizza Planet location. Owned by Rizzo The Rat—the wisecracking Muppet and best friend to Gonzo the Great, last seen as a writer on ABC’s The Muppets)—PizzeRizzo will allow guests to grab a cold drink and a slice o’ pepperoni while reveling in some Rizzo family history.

The good folks at Walt Disney Imagineering have added all kinds of hints of Mr. The Rat, his extended family, and his friends throughout the two-story establishment; in addition to indoor and outdoor seating areas, there’s also a “cheesy” banquet room and a special booth designated just for Rizzo’s VIP pals.

Hungry for more details and a grand-opening date? Stay tuned…

First Look at Disney’s Descendants 2

We first met the offspring of favorite Disney villains in last year’s Descendants, featuring Sofia Carson (Adventures in Babysitting) and directed and choreographed by Kenny Ortega (Hocus Pocus). Luckily, the Disney Channel movie proved so popular, we’re getting another installment! And judging by the new teaser trailer, above, things are about to get a little fishy…

Here’s what we know about Descendants 2, so far: The children of Maleficent, the Evil Queen, Cruella de Vil, and Jafar will meet their most powerful adversary yet… who just happens to be the daughter of The Little Mermaid’s fabulously evil Ursula. The film is set to go into production later this year, for a 2017 Disney Channel premiere.

Zelda Williams to Narrate Freeform’s The Letter

Robin Williams’ daughter, actress Zelda Williams, is currently starring on Freeform’s Dead of Summer—but she’s already got another Freeform series up her sleeve! Zelda will be the voice behind The Letter, a one-hour unscripted relationship show that focuses on friends challenging each other to better themselves through anonymous letters written to each other; she’ll also serve as a producer on the series.

In each stand-alone episode of The Letter, four friends for life draw names and anonymously write to the selected person a thoughtful, yet totally honest letter outlining their opinion of what needs to be changed in order to improve and transform their friend’s life for the better. For one week, each “reader” must follow all the rules and instructions outlined in the letter—culminating in a dramatic (and emotionally charged) meeting where the authors of each letter reveal themselves to their best friends. Look for The Letter later this year on Freeform.

Disneyland Resort’s Halloween Time Kicks Off September 9

Sure, we’re still in the throws of summer… but we’ve got exciting Halloween-related news that we can’t wait to share. Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort—when Mickey Mouse and pals create spooky fun throughout the park—is kicking off on September 9, bringing with it a full 17 nights of Mickey’s Halloween Party plus the return of seasonal faves like Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy and Haunted Mansion Holiday!

Mickey’s Halloween Party is a separately ticketed event that features fantastic trick-or-treating (yes, you can come in costume!), spectacular “Halloween Scream” fireworks, and—new this year—the Headless Horseman of Sleepy Hollow (from Disney’s animated The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad), who will make a ghostly ride through the heart of Disneyland Park each night of the party.

To see what nights Mickey’s Halloween Party comes to life—and for more info on tickets—visit the event’s page on Disneyland.com.

Zootopia Gets Emoji-fied

Our friends at Disney Interactive have released the next installment in their super-cute As Told By Emoji series and this one is especially “zoo-riffic”! Zootopia As Told By Emoji launched on Sunday, July 17—which just happens to have been World Emoji Day—as part of an As Told By Emoji marathon airing on Disney Channel. See emoji-fied versions of Judy Hopps, Nick Wilde, and “every bunny else” as they re-tell the story of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ blockbuster film, now available on Blu-ray, DVD, and Digital.

Dressing Disney: 7 Shanghai Disneyland Costumes

July 20, 2016July 18, 2016

By Nicole Nalty

One of our favorite things about visiting a Disney theme park is how immersed we feel in each land. Disneyland’s Frontierland takes us back to the Wild West, but just a few feet away, you’re in the wilds of the jungle in Adventureland! Themed horticulture, area music, and décor deeper develop the story behind each land—not to mention the cast members and their costumes! These Disney details make all the difference in bringing different lands to life.

We’ve shared some of our favorite Disney details from Shanghai Disneyland, but after our recent visit, we thought we’d share some of these awesome new costumes with you.

Toy Story Hotel
Step on in to Sunnyside Market for a closer look at these cute costumes. It’d be hard to forget that you’ve got a friend in Buzz and Woody when the dynamic duo is embroidered on your outfit!

Whistle Stop Shop
We would be remiss if we didn’t include Whistle Stop Shop in this roundup, (see the not-so-hidden 23?) but we love the look and feel of these Main Street-esque costumes. And, Mickey (and Duffy!) ears are always the perfect accessory to any outfit.

Disneyland Hotel
Checking in at the Disneyland Hotel? The cast’s formal costumes and the stunning lobby will make you feel like royalty.

Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for Sunken Treasure
Yo ho, yo ho, a pirate’s life for me! You might be inclined to jump ship and join the scallywag side with this themed garb.

Minnie’s Confectionary
Minnie’s Confectionary costumes are almost as sweet as the treats inside!

TRON—Power Supplies Shop
These Shanghai Disneyland cast members are ready to go off the grid in their futuristic gear.

Mickey and Minnie
The micest (and cutest!) Disney couple has a new look in Shanghai Disney Resort too!

DuckTales News That Makes You Say “Woo-oo!”

July 20, 2016July 20, 2016

By Beth Deitchman

We’ve got our eyes on San Diego, California, this week as we eagerly await the start to Comic-Con International: San Diego 2016. But this morning, our hearts and minds are firmly rooted in Duckburg! Feast your eyes on this quackingly awesome new teaser art from Disney Television Animation’s upcoming DuckTales series.

Scrooge McDuck, grandnephews Huey, Dewey, and Louie, and Donald Duck will, of course, star in the new series, which will be executive-produced by Annie Award nominee Matt Youngberg (Ben 10: Omniverse). Rounding out the creative team are story editor and co-producer Francisco Angones (Disney XD’s Emmy®-nominated Wander Over Yonder) and art director Sean Jimenez (Disney XD’s Annie Award-winning Gravity Falls).

The image was created by the production’s art team, led by Youngberg and Jimenez, and will appear on the back of DuckTales Cinestory Volume 1 comic—a collectible edition featuring a retelling of the first five episodes of the original DuckTales television show. The comic is being released first at Comic-Con today, July 20, and it becomes available in comic book stores nationwide beginning Tuesday, September 27.

DuckTales is set to debut on Disney XD in 2017. We’re hoping the time passes in a duck-blur. Woo-oo, indeed!

Hushpuppies from New Orleans Square

July 20, 2016July 14, 2016

Enjoy this recipe for Hushpuppies from Blue Bayou in New Orleans Square at Disneyland. They’re so delicious, you’ll savor these crispy little bites in exquisite silence.

Makes 2 1/2 dozen

1 cup flour
1 cup yellow cornmeal
1 tablespoon finely diced shallot
1 heaping tablespoon cooked and finely chopped bacon
1 1/2 teaspoons finely chopped parsley
3 heaping tablespoons white sweet corn
1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon sugar
1 1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 egg
3/4 cup milk
4 cups corn oil or shortening

In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients except the egg, milk, and oil.
In a separate bowl, mix together egg and milk. Heat the oil.
Add the dry ingredients to the egg-and-milk mixture. Do not let the batter sit longer than 15 minutes.
Use two teaspoons and carefully spoon a ball about the size of a large olive into the hot oil. Fry 3 to 4 minutes.

This recipe has been converted from a larger quantity in the restaurant kitchens. The flavor profile may vary from the restaurant’s version. All recipes are the property of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts U.S., Inc., and may not be reproduced without express permission.

Explore a World of Color Inside the Ink and Paint Department!

July 19, 2016

By Tyler Slater

On the afternoon of July 18, an intimate group of D23 Gold and Gold Family Members had the rare opportunity to discover the magic of inking and painting at The Walt Disney Studios.

As part of the D23 Behind-the-Scenes Experience series, guests enjoyed a demonstration on how Disney animated films like Dumbo (1941), One Hundred and One Dalmatians (1961), and The Little Mermaid (1989) came into the wonderful world of color. While the legendary tradition is no longer used in filmmaking, a small team of dedicated artists continues the legacy of the Ink and Paint Department today.

Highlights of the tour included a full walkthrough and demonstration of the historic Xerography machine created by Ub Iwerks and the Xerox team to help streamline and expedite the process of animation. Guests also spent time in the paint room surrounded by the vibrant bottles that brought beloved Disney characters to life! Everyone in the group was especially giddy to take a peek at Disney’s secret color palette created originally for details like Ariel’s green fin or the Beast’s blue jacket.

Following the tour, D23 Members were joined by author and historian Mindy Johnson and legendary artist Carmen Sanderson for an afternoon tea and a historical presentation on the Ink and Paint Department. During the intimate time, guests discovered what it was like to work at the Disney Studio as an ink and paint artist. From Alice and Wonderland (1951) to Sleeping Beauty (1959), Mindy and Carmen shared stories that attendees will cherish long after this special day.

Before departing, each member received an incredibly rare gift: an exclusive cel of a line drawing produced on the historic Xerography machine! To add a little extra pixie dust, the cel was chosen to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Dumbo.

Be sure to stay tuned to our Upcoming Events page to never miss a moment of magic.

From Regions Beyond, Disney Parks Presents: The Haunted Mansion

July 19, 2016August 9, 2016

By Nicole Nalty

Fans of the classic-yet-creepy tune from Haunted Mansion, rejoice! The lyrics of “Grim Grinning Ghosts” are brought to (after)life as readers follow our happiest haunts through the Haunted Mansion in this spookily stunning picture book. Inspired by the fan-favorite song and intended for the child in all of us, keep an eye out for fun Easter eggs, like the one we’ve shared below.

Constance, the bride in the attic, gleaned her wealth by marrying one rich husband after another. To symbolize this, if you look closely at the portraits, you can see that she gains another strand of pearls with each of her ill-fated marriages. Looks like all her husbands got the axe!

Zoom in for Disney Parks Presents: The Haunted Mansion — Click on the image to view the full artwork and look for the Easter egg.

Disney Parks Presents: The Haunted Mansion is the first of the Disney Parks Presents picture books, and we can’t wait to see what will come next! Click HERE to order your copy.

23 Disney Details You Will Love at Shanghai Disney Resort

July 18, 2016July 21, 2016

by Jeffrey Epstein

Shanghai Disney Resort is truly larger than life. From the dazzling Enchanted Storybook Castle (the largest castle in any Disney park) and the imposing Roaring Mountain (home to the beastly Q’aráq) with its gushing waterfalls, to the heart-stopping TRON Lightcycle Power Run and spectacular Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure, at every turn is another eye-popping delight. And as impressive as these new attractions and experiences may be, the incredible details that the Walt Disney Imagineering (WDI) team has seamlessly integrated throughout the resort make Shanghai Disney Resort even more special for Disney fans. Here we have selected our 23 (of course!) favorite Disney-themed details at Shanghai Disney Resort along with some of the stories behind their enchanting origins.

1952

In Disneytown (the resort’s shopping, dining and entertainment district) above the Chow Tai Fook jewelry shop (which features a great Disney collection) is the year “1952”—which happens to be the year of the founding of WED Enterprises, which would later become WDI. Atop another section of the structure is the year “1901”—the year of Walt Disney’s birth.

Pyewacket

This lovely reproduction of Gary Miltmore’s 2002 painting (with a not-so-Hidden Mickey) is in the Lakeshore section of Disneytown, and guests with an eagle eye will notice the first ship is the Pyewacket—Roy E. Disney’s beloved sailing boat.

The Lakeshore Sisters

If the Lakeshore Sisters look (or sound) familiar in this poster from Disneytown’s Lakeshore area, that may be because Dolly, Dottie, and Ethel were known in the U.S. as the Silver Lake Sisters, a trio of talent who also “created” the Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Café on Buena Vista Street at Disney California Adventure.

Disneytown Posters

These posters are three for the price of one Disney Detail. The artwork for the poster on the far left was created in 1981 for Epcot’s El Río Del Tiempo attraction. In the middle is visual development artwork for 1967’s The Jungle Book on a poster advertising a “never-produced” True-Life Adventure. And on the far right is a piece of concept artwork Herb Ryman created for the China pavilion at Epcot in 1981.

Pascal the Painter

We have seen any number of adorable chipmunks, squirrels, and birds adorning Disney’s castles before, but we love that Rapunzel’s pal Pascal managed to find his way into the design elements of the Enchanted Storybook Castle.

Fantasyland Clock

Does this clock look familiar to some fans of Disneyland Park in Anaheim? It should, as this clock (featured in, naturally, Fantasyland) is a reproduction of one at its stateside counterpart.

Laugh-O-grams Photo Studio

Mickey Avenue has many an homage to Disney’s rich history, including this door “leading” to the Laugh-O-grams Photo Studio. Laugh-O-gram Films was Walt’s Kansas City company, which made a series of seven modernized versions of fairy tales in 1922.

Flower Street Warehouse

The Flower Street Warehouse is located on, of course, Flower Street, which also happens to be the name of the street WDI is located on in California.

Everybody Dance!

Who wouldn’t want to “learn to dance” with Fantasia’s Hyacinth Hippo and Ben Ali Gator located on Mickey Avenue? Plus, it’s at the Melody Time Dance Studio, named for the film, which consisted of seven animated and live-action sequences, including Johnny Appleseed and Pecos Bill. Melody Time references continue down Mickey Avenue. A painted billboard for Big Toot and Son is a fun nod to Little Toot.

Floyd and Carl’s Comics

Floyd and Carl’s Comics is actually part of the Avenue M Arcade shop on Mickey Avenue (similar to Main Street, U.S.A.’s Emporium), and is named after comic book artists and Disney Legends Carl Barks and Floyd Gottfredson. Keen eyes will notice the window with the Phantom Blot, a wicked creation who went up against Mickey Mouse in several comic strips and comic books.

Donald’s Family Tree

When grabbing some soft-serve ice cream in a waffle cone at Il Paperino on Mickey Avenue, take a look at Donald Duck’s extensive family tree, which goes well beyond Duckburg!

Tout le Monde Peut Cuisiner

You don’t have to be French to love Ratatouille (or Remy’s Patisserie on Mickey Avenue). And inside, guests will find this well-marked version of Tout le Monde Peut Cuisiner, a cookbook fans of the film will recognize as Chef Gusteau’s Anyone Can Cook.

Hyperion Tunes

While picking up a healthy snack at Chip & Dale’s Treehouse Treats on Mickey Avenue, take a look at the Hyperion 3000 radio, named for the Walt Disney Studios on Hyperion Avenue in Los Angeles.

Chillin’ with Pablo

Pablo Penguin from The Three Caballeros has found a new side gig selling ice in this fanciful billboard on one of the alleys along Mickey Avenue.

Hotel Marceline

The second floor of one of the buildings on Mickey Avenue advertises the Hotel Marceline, a reference to one of Walt’s boyhood homes in Marceline, Missouri. Marceline’s Main Street was also one of the influences for Main Street, U.S.A. at Disneyland.

1401

Along one of the back streets of Mickey Avenue, guests will find building 1401—which also happens to be WDI’s address on Flower Street in California.

Dining in Character

Guests who went to D23 Expo 2015 and now dine at Mickey & Pals Market Café on Mickey Avenue will recognize these Eric Goldberg sketches that adorn one entire room of this eatery. The portraits are an homage to the celebrity portraits done at New York’s Sardi’s restaurant.

Horseshoes

In the queue for Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure, guests pass multiple boards featuring horseshoes that have been worn by some equine that have famous names in the Disney lexicon. These are just a few.

Mapping a Legend

While K. Anderson oversees the Map Room of Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure, Ken Anderson is a Disney Legend who worked on many Disney films and attractions, including concepts for the original Pirates of the Caribbean attraction at Disneyland.

Dead Man’s Chest

Look up in the queue of Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure, to see the Dead Man’s Chest belonging to Davy Jones!

Mushu

Mulan’s Mushu is one of the many characters to be found inside the rooms of the Wandering Moon Teahouse. Each has a different theme—and a different hidden character (look for Simba, Abu, Nemo, Chip ’n’ Dale, and many more)!

TRON

At the entrance to the TRON Lightcycle Power Run is a replica of the laser used to digitize Flynn in the film and transport him on the game grid.

Are You 23?

And last but not least, the Whistle Stop Shop, located at the far end of Mickey Avenue, is No. 23. And, as all good D23 Members know, 1923 is the year Walt and his brother Roy would found what is now The Walt Disney Company. If the shop’s name is familiar, you may recognize it as the title of the opening song from Robin Hood (1973).

ABC’s Big Emmy Nominations—Plus More in News Briefs

July 14, 2016July 14, 2016

By Courtney Potter

ABC Celebrates 2016 Primetime Emmy Nominations

Earlier this morning, the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences announced the nominees for the 68th Primetime Emmy® Awards—and ABC has raked in an impressive 35 nominations! (With all the great shows and stars we have, it’s no surprise!) Take a look at the truly outstanding rundown, below:

Lead Actress in a Drama Series: Viola Davis, How to Get Away with Murder
Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie: Felicity Huffman, American Crime
Lead Actress in a Limited Series or Movie: Lili Taylor, American Crime
Lead Actor in a Comedy Series: Anthony Anderson, black-ish
Lead Actress in a Comedy Series: Tracee Ellis Ross, black-ish

Reality Competition Series: Dancing with the Stars
Variety Talk Series: Jimmy Kimmel Live
Limited Series or Movie: American Crime
Comedy Series: black-ish
Comedy Series: Modern Family

Here’s how ABC’s 35 nods break down by series: American Crime (4), black-ish (3), Dancing with the Stars (8), Galavant (1), How to Get Away with Murder (1), It’s Your 50th Christmas, Charlie Brown (1), Jazz at the White House (1), Jimmy Kimmel Live (2), Last Man Standing (1), Modern Family (4), The Muppets (1), The Oscars® (5), Shark Tank (2), The Whispers (1)

Congratulations to all the nominees! And don’t forget to watch the 68th Primetime Emmy Awards on September 18, only on ABC!

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

D23 and Walt Disney Archives
July 18
D23 Behind-the-Scenes Experience: Ink & Paint Department
August 20
The Reluctant Dragon 75th Anniversary on the Lot
August 22
D23 Presents Aloha Aulani!
October 5
D23’s Sip & Scream
October 5
D23 Behind-the-Scenes Experience: A Midnight Soirée at the Tower of Terror
November 19–20
D23 Destination D: Amazing Adventures
Studios
August 12, 2016
Pete’s Dragon opens in theaters
September 23, 2016
Queen of Katwe opens in theaters
November 4, 2016
Moana opens in theaters
November 23, 2016
Doctor Strange opens in theaters
December 16, 2016
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story opens in theaters

New Concept Art Released for Disneyland Park’s Star Wars-Themed Land

Disneyland Park’s Star Wars-Themed Land is still some months away from rocketing into our galaxy—but we just got an awe-inspiring look at what’s to come, courtesy of a brand-new concept art image released this past Monday. It was unveiled on the fence along Big Thunder Trail in Frontierland—one of the new land’s future entry points; as you can see from the image, above, a thriving port has some familiar landmarks—like landing zones, markets, and other buildings. The 14-acre land is the largest-ever single-themed land in Disneyland Resort history!

We’re particularly excited to see a glimmer of the Millennium Falcon; wonder what kind of shenanigans a trip on that infamous ship might bring? Stay tuned for more info and updates as they become available…

A True “Labor of Love” for Disney’s Queen of Katwe

The spectacular true story of Ugandan chess champion Phiona Mutesi comes to big-screen life on September 23 with Disney’s Queen of Katwe—directed by Mira Nair and starring Lupita Nyong’o and David Oyelowo. To celebrate the film’s impending release, check out the brand-new featurette, above… it includes emotional interviews with Nair, Nyong’o, and Oyelowo, and a special look behind-the-scenes at the making of the film.

The movie follows Phiona as her world rapidly changes when she’s introduced to the game of chess—and, as a result of the support she receives from her family and her community, is instilled with the confidence and determination she needs to pursue her dream of becoming an international chess champion. Look for Queen of Katwe at a theater near you this fall!

Disney Junior’s Doc McStuffins Returns for Season Four

“The Doc is in!” There’s a whole new season of Disney Junior’s Doc McStuffins on the horizon—and with it comes new stories, new characters, amazing guest stars, and (starting on August 5) a new theme song! The award-winning animated series fourth season premieres on Disney Junior on Friday, July 29, at 9 a.m. EDT; a sneak peek will be available on the Disney Junior app starting on July 22.

Anthony Anderson (ABC’s black-ish) and Dawnn Lewis (A Different World) guest star in the season premiere, “Welcome to McStuffinsville,” in which Doc’s grandma transports Doc to the magical world of McStuffinsville—where she’ll carry on a family tradition by expanding her practice to the magical McStuffins Toy Hospital. There, on her first day as chief resident, Doc must tend to Stanley, a lonely, brokenhearted toy… Other guest stars later this season include Good Morning America co-host Robin Roberts, Ellen Pompeo (Grey’s Anatomy), Vanessa Williams (The Good Wife), and Molly Ringwald (The Secret Life of the American Teenager).

And there’s even more news on the McStuffins horizon: On Saturday, August 6, the first-ever museum exhibit dedicated to Doc McStuffins will open at the world’s largest children’s museum, The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. This cool interactive experience—inviting kids and families to explore and learn about healthy habits, compassion, and nurturing care—will travel to other venues across the country beginning in 2017.

Disney Cruise Line Reveals Holly-Jolly Holiday Offerings for 2016

We know—we’re only a few weeks out from the Fourth of July, and we’ve still several weeks of summer to go. But that doesn’t mean we can’t start mulling over all the vacation fun to come later this year. Case in point: the latest holiday offerings from Disney Cruise Line (DCL)! Starting this fall, guests will experience all kinds of specially themed Halloween and winter-holiday sailings across the DCL fleet. From stem to stern, there’ll be entertainment and fun for every member of the family.

A big Halloween fan? Then make sure to sail with DCL this autumn for a wickedly good time; beginning September 2, this extra-spooky celebration features Halloween-themed soirees (like “Mickey’s Mouse-querade Party”), spirited entertainment, and amazing décor—including The Pumpkin Tree, which will magically transform throughout the cruise.

More of a holiday aficionado? Later in the year, all four Disney ships will deck their halls with big-time yuletide cheer! Very Merry Cruises kick off on November 8; look for huge “Turkey Day” dinners, Christmas feasts, parties including “Santa’s Winter Wonderland Ball,” and even a big New Year’s Eve gala.

Take a peek at some of DCL’s upcoming itineraries here.

Feel the Force with Star Wars Celebration Europe Live Stream—This Weekend!

As we speak (well, okay, type), Jedis from around the world are descending on London for this weekend’s massive Star Wars Celebration Europe. But if you’re unable to attend in person, don’t fret—don your robes, grab your lightsaber, and settle in for very special live episodes of StarWars.com’s The Star Wars Show!

From Friday, July 15, through Sunday, July 17, The Star Wars Show will feature celebrity guests, interviews with Star Wars creators, must-see panels, and so much more—all hosted by Andi Gutierrez and Peter Townley. Also livestreaming is an über-special Rogue One: A Star Wars Story panel, on Friday beginning at 11 a.m. ET / 8 a.m. PT, presented by Verizon. Look for Rogue One director Gareth Edwards, Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy, and other amazing special guests to sit down for an exclusive discussion of the highly anticipated film.

And if you’re wondering what the future holds for the crew of Star Wars Rebel’s Ghost, StarWars.com will be livestreaming the Star Wars Rebels Season Three Panel on Saturday, July 16 (4–5 p.m. GMT/8–9 a.m. PT). Producer and Supervising Director Dave Filoni will be joined by Tiya Sircar (Sabine) and Sam Witwer (Darth Maul) to share highly-guarded sneak peeks at what’s ahead.

Head over to StarWars.com for more information, and to tune into the live shows.

The Lion Guard Roars with First-Ever Interactive “Appisode”

Just a few days ago, our friends over at Disney Junior announced the first-ever “appisode” based on their hit animated series The Lion Guard—and it’s now is available on the Disney Junior Appisodes app for in-app purchase. In the interactive version of the episode, entitled “Bunga the Wise,” a well-intentioned Bunga gives some bad advice to his fellow animals… and accidently triggers chaos across the Pride Lands! Throughout the “appisode,” kids can help Kion and the rest of the Lion Guard save the animals and learn that the easiest solution is not always the best… Plus, look for other fun activities like playing drums with Timon and Pumba, flying with Ono to explore the Pride Lands, and roaring with Kion.
Don’t forget to watch the latest episode of The Lion Guard this Friday, July 15, at 9 a.m. PT on Disney Junior!

Latest Teaser Poster for Disney’s Live Action Beauty and the Beast

“Tale as old as time; song as old as rhyme.” Disney’s live action retelling of their 1991 classic Beauty and the Beast won’t hit theaters ’til Spring 2017—but we just caught a glimpse of the latest teaser poster (above), and it’s as mysterious as the Beast himself! A red rose, caught under frosty glass, with cold, imposing spires seen through the castle window… sure, we know what happens with that rose, but we absolutely cannot wait to see it all transpire with Emma Watson (the Harry Potter films) as Belle and Dan Stevens (Downton Abbey) as the Beast.

Also starring Luke Evans, Josh Gad, Emma Thompson, Audra McDonald, and Stanley Tucci, Beauty and the Beast opens in U.S. theaters on March 17, 2017.

First Look at Disney Emoji Blitz

Could Disney and Pixar emojis be any more adorable?! As of this morning, you’re now able to play and collect hundreds of these cute digital pals right in the comfort of your own mobile device. Disney Emoji Blitz is a matching game and emoji keyboard for iOS and Android; see some of the emoji in action with the teaser trailer from Disney Interactive Media, above. As you advance through the game, you’ll uncover more emoji until you find all 400! That’s a lot of “cute,” right? We have our texting thumbs at the ready!

Seven New Shows You Need to Watch on ABCd

July 13, 2016July 13, 2016

By Nicole Nalty

As we shared earlier, ABC just made some awesome changes to ABC.com and the ABC app! In addition to a library of 38 “Throwback” shows from ABC Studios’ library (click here to see which shows we can’t wait to binge watch!), ABC is also releasing seven brand-new comedy and lifestyle digital series, all available without signing in! Click here to download the ABC app and read on to learn more about these new shows.

All My Gay Friends are Getting Married
Always a bridesmaid, never a bride, Michelle Collins suddenly realizes that everyone is getting married—except for her! Follow along as she chats with couples as they tell their love story and share favorite moments from their weddings in this charming celebration of gay marriage.

Tastemade’s Get Cookin’
Calling all foodies! Grab your popcorn and settle in for a sweet treat as Tastemakers Erwan Heussaff, Lazarus Lynch, and Megan Mitchell show you how to elevate your eats through tips, tricks, and recipes.

I Can Find $3000 In Your Home
Not all treasure is silver and gold, right? eBay millionaire Linda Lightman travels the country in search of your home’s best treasures. She believes that everyone has at least 52 items totaling at least $3,000 in their homes—who knew?! For those watching at home, Linda will share some insight on how you can make money with your secret treasures, too.

Forever 31
Forever 31 takes the 20-something sitcom into the next decade with a hilarious look at the lives of comedian Iliza Shlesinger and her friends as they journey through many of adulthood’s trials and triumphs—from dead-end jobs to dating in today’s world. (Some adult content)

Newborn Moms
Expectation vs. reality comes to fruition with two new moms (Aurora Browne and Nadine Djoury) as they attempt to meet their own expectations of the types of moms they thought they would be while also realizing the many struggles—sleepless nights, self doubt, and countless surprises—that come with the joy of being a new parent.

Boondoggle
Modern Family and Finding Dory’s Ty Burrell stars as perhaps his best character yet—himself! Boondoggle follows actor Ty Burrell as he finally makes it to the big time in a starring role on the hit series Wingbot. This is great news—especially for Ty’s best friends Mel Cowan, Joel Spence, and Johnny Meeks, who are definitely enjoying the perks of their friend’s new fame. (Some adult content)

On the Record
Ever wondered about the story behind your favorite song? Watch as songwriters perform and share everything that brought it to life—from the initial inspiration to its evolution and impact on the artist. Hollywood Records artist Shawn Hook will be the first to share his story, discussing three of his hit singles: “Wonderful Surprise,” “Million Ways,” and “Sound of Your Heart.”

5 Classic ABC Shows We Can’t Wait to Binge-Watch

July 13, 2016

By Courtney Potter

Huge news, TV fans: The network has just revamped its streaming service in a major way! Full seasons of 38 “Throwback” shows from ABC Studios’ vast library, as well as seven new original short-form “ABCd” digital series, will now be available to all viewers on ABC.com and the ABC app for both mobile and connected TV devices—all without signing in!

In addition to all that new content, the ABC digital experience has been completely redesigned to make it even easier for users to navigate. A totally improved experience—exclusively on iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, and Apple TV—will make it easier to find both current shows and specially curated collections, and playlists will help fans discover new favorites. To find out about the seven hilarious new ABCd original series, click here.

There’s almost nothing we like more than binge-watching classic TV—and there are some fantastic choices amongst ABC’s new online library! We’ve chosen five “Throwback” ABC shows that we’re most looking forward to seeing again… but don’t forget to check out ABC.com to see the full list!

Schoolhouse Rock!
Now this show is a tried-and-true classic; first airing on ABC from 1973 through 1985, then again (with both old and new episodes) from 1993–99, Schoolhouse Rock! is a series of short films created to teach kids the basics of civics, science, grammar, history, money, and math. Each topic was covered by a host of clever songs—and almost immediately, those tunes proved so popular that they were released as albums. Ditties like “I’m Just a Bill,” “Three is a Magic Number,” and “Conjunction Junction” are still used in classrooms (and beyond) today, and the series also introduced the world to the music of Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty, who went on to create the Tony®-winning musical Ragtime.

My So-Called Life
It’s hard to believe this cult-favorite ABC series only aired for one season—from August 1994 through January 1995. My So-Called Life starred Claire Danes (Emmy® winner for Homeland) as Angela Chase, a prototypical ’90s teenager just trying to make it through each suburban-Pittsburgh school day unscathed. As the series begins, Angela is trying to discover herself; soon, her relationship with parents Patty (Bess Armstrong) and Graham (Tom Irwin) becomes strained. And in the meantime, Angela alienates childhood pals like Brian Krakow (Devon Gummersall) by befriending two of her high school’s more unique outsiders: Rayanne Graff (A.J. Langer) and Rickie Vasquez (Wilson Cruz). The show often tackled important topics of the day—like homophobia, drug use, and homelessness—with sensitivity.

But perhaps the most memorable aspect of My So-Called Life was Angela’s crush on bad-boy cutie Jordan Catalano (played by future Oscar® winner Jared Leto). We’re particularly looking forward to reliving that on-again, off-again relationship once more—so dramatic, but also so real. If you’ve never seen My So-Called Life, do yourself a favor and check it out… there’s a reason the show is listed as one of Time magazine’s “100 Best TV Shows of All-Time.”

Sports Night
Created by Aaron Sorkin (the now-iconic writer of A Few Good Men, The American President, and The West Wing), Sports Night only ran on ABC for two seasons—from 1998 to 2000. The show, which followed the stars and staff of a fictional TV sports news program, featured Felicity Huffman (Desperate Housewives), Josh Charles (The Good Wife), Peter Krause (Six Feet Under), Robert Guillaume (voice of Rafiki in The Lion King), and future Scandal co-star Joshua Malina. It’s said the series was loosely based on the behind-the-scenes antics at ESPN’s SportsCenter; most episodes centered around the on-again, off-again relationship between Sports Night producer Dana (Huffman) and co-anchor Casey (Krause). We still like to imagine what those characters are all doing nowadays…

Felicity
One of our all-time favorites—and the show that introduced the world to J.J. Abrams! Yes, Felicity was co-created (and written) by the Star Wars director and starred Keri Russell. The series follows recent high school graduate Felicity Porter on her adventures, in both life and love, in the “big city.” Much to the dismay of her parents, Felicity decides to follow Ben Covington (Scott Speedman)—a high school classmate she had a major crush on—to the University of New York, instead of attending Stanford University as previously planned. Drama—as it so often does—ensues: Felicity winds up in a love triangle with both Ben and her resident advisor, Noel Crane (Scott Foley), all while going to classes with friends like Julie Emrick (Amy Jo Johnson) and Sean Blumberg (frequent Abrams cohort Greg Grunberg) and working at the nearby Dean & DeLuca coffee house.

We cannot wait to watch Felicity once again navigate between choosing Ben and Noel… not to mention, the infamous “haircut incident.” We liked Felicity no matter what hairstyle she had!

Dinosaurs
Finally, another cult favorite we’re looking forward to binging on is Dinosaurs, a sitcom that aired on ABC from April 1991 through July 1994. The good folks at Jim Henson Productions co-created the series, which centered on the Sinclairs—a prehistoric clan comprised of father Earl (Stuart Pankin), mother Fran (Jessica Walter, later of Arrested Development fame), and their children, including son Robbie (Jason Willinger) and daughter Charlene (former All in the Family star Sally Struthers).

Set in Pangaea in 60,000,003 BC, life was remarkably like 1990s America. Earl went to work each day at Wesayso Corporation, pushing over trees with friend and coworker Roy Hess (Sam McMurray), and the family muddled through all the usual everyday squabbles. But what made Dinosaurs so unique is that, despite its unusual premise, it often explored serious issues like environmentalism, censorship, equal rights, and peer pressure. Famously, the final episode of the series found the Sinclair family facing life during the coming Ice Age—a glacial period brought on by actions of the dinosaurs themselves. A unique ABC “throwback,” to say the least…

Wanna learn more? Check out the video, below, for info on all the fabulous content coming to ABC.com and the ABC app!

Star Wars Celebration Europe Teases Rogue One: A Star Wars Story

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

New Trailer for Star Wars Rebels Season Three

Elena of Avalor Adds More Disney Dazzle to Friday’s Premiere!

Dining Gets Muppet-y at Disney’s Hollywood Studios This Fall

First Look at Disney’s Descendants 2

Zelda Williams to Narrate Freeform’s The Letter

Disneyland Resort’s Halloween Time Kicks Off September 9

Zootopia Gets Emoji-fied

ABC Celebrates 2016 Primetime Emmy Nominations

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

New Concept Art Released for Disneyland Park’s Star Wars-Themed Land

A True “Labor of Love” for Disney’s Queen of Katwe

Disney Junior’s Doc McStuffins Returns for Season Four

Disney Cruise Line Reveals Holly-Jolly Holiday Offerings for 2016

Feel the Force with Star Wars Celebration Europe Live Stream—This Weekend!

The Lion Guard Roars with First-Ever Interactive “Appisode”

Latest Teaser Poster for Disney’s Live Action Beauty and the Beast

First Look at Disney Emoji Blitz

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

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