Icons of Disney Storytelling: Disney Legend Robin Roberts

By Zach Johnson

In this special series of intimate interviews, D23.com speaks with the most talented, prolific, and articulate storytellers from across The Walt Disney Company.

Disney Legend Robin Roberts has made a living telling stories—her own and others’.

Under her leadership as co-anchor of Good Morning America, the ABC News broadcast has won six Emmy®Awards for Outstanding Morning Program. Roberts joined the GMA family as a contributor in 1995 and was named co-anchor in 2005. In doing so, Roberts made TV history, as she and fellow Disney Legend Diane Sawyer became the first team of women to ever anchor a major network’s morning broadcast. Roberts had previously broken another barrier, in 1990, when she joined ESPN as the network’s first Black female sports journalist. During her 15-year stint, she contributed to NFL PrimeTime and also hosted SportsCenter and In the Game with Robin Roberts.

She launched Rock’n Robin Productions, an independent production company that creates original broadcast and digital programming, in 2014. Her latest project, the Disney+ Original Turning the Tables with Robin Roberts, is now in its second season.

Now, Roberts joins D23: The Official Disney Fan Club for a wide-ranging Q&A...

Robin Roberts smiles as she sits at the “Good Morning America” anchor desk and looks to her right. She is wearing a blue, long-sleeved dress and a black beaded necklace. In front of her are downturned eyeglasses, a downturned iPhone, notepads and a pen, and a blue coffee mug with the yellow “Good Morning America” logo on it.

D23: What makes Disney the perfect home for a storyteller such as yourself?
Robin Roberts (RR): Zach, I’m so happy you asked me that. I have been with The Walt Disney Company since 1990, starting at ESPN, then ABC Sports, then Good Morning America, now at Disney+—various things. It goes back to something I’ve said before, whenever people ask me how I’m able to get so much out of people. I say, “Trust.” That’s Disney. That’s why people come to us. And I say it like that because they know they’re going to be entertained— that’s a given—but they’re also going to be enlightened and encouraged to be their best selves through the stories we tell. At the end of the day, we’re storytellers. We have great stories to tell and to share. I’m so grateful that people come to us, like on Turning the Tables, and say, “Help me share my story.” There is no better place to do that than here at The Walt Disney Company.

Robin Roberts smiles while holding onto the railing of a boat. She is on assignment in New Zealand and is wearing a black raincoat, a white T-shirt, and jeans.

D23: How has Disney helped you to touch the hearts of people around the world in unexpected ways?
RR: Oh, that’s another good question! And around the world, you’re right about that. Internationally, we’re universal. We are. I mean, there are very few platforms or companies that are universally embraced and understood and trusted. And I think because of that, everybody from various countries around the world feels a bit of ownership with Disney. They feel it’s theirs. It’s a bond that is very hard to find. And I’m just glad that we found the magic. I don’t know how we did it, but we found it!

Robin Roberts wears a vibrant black, gray, orange, purple, and white printed top and blue pants. She sits in a gray chair that has a pink blanket draped over the back. In front of her are two gold tables: one with flowers, the other with a tea tray. Marsai Martin and Sheryl Lee Ralph sit across from her with their backs to the camera.

D23: How has Disney helped you achieve your dreams—and dream new ones?
RR: I’m telling you, there are very few places you can go [to make your dreams come true]. I don’t have to leave, because everything I want to do, I can find right here. With Turning the Tables, I didn’t have to go somewhere else to start a talk show, a dynamic conversation with women. It was The Walt Disney Company that said, “Hey, with Disney+, you can do it right here at home.” I’m really grateful—not just for me, but for others. They let us spread our wings without having to fly the coop. Oh, I like that: We spread our wings, but we don’t fly the coop. I’ve got to register that! That was pretty doggone good! But I mean that. We’ve been allowed to spread our wings, but we don’t fly the coop because we know whatever it is we want to do, we can find a home for it—a home for it right where we are—and be embraced. I’m just grateful. I’m at a place where I’m not tolerated, I’m celebrated. That’s a big difference here at Disney.

Get Early Access to Disney Speedstorm and Get Racing Now!

Disney Speedstorm, the hero-based racing game featuring some of your favorite Disney and Pixar characters, is available to play today on PC and console in Early Access! Purchase a Founder’s Pack to be one of the first to hit the tracks with exciting exclusives.

And, as a special treat just for D23 members, we are excited to announce that players in Early Access will be able to race as Racer Steamboat Mickey in Disney Speedstorm this summer!

Unlock and collect Disney and Pixar racers, each with their own unique skill, to play in a way that suits your racing style. How will you drift into first place? Will you summon a flock of birds to get a speed boost as Belle, throw a well-timed tantrum as Donald Duck to knock competitors aside, or collect the screams of your opponents to get an acceleration boost as Randall? All is fair play on the tracks.

Speaking of racing style – we’ve got you covered. Customize your karts, racers, and avatar with styles inspired by the iconic characters and their worlds. See below for some scream-worthy racing suit styles for the Monsters, Inc. racers. Fans might just spot a few ‘easter eggs’ on those suits and badges!

Race your way through heart pounding circuits – riding the rails, sailing over jumps, and speeding your way to victory. Explore themed environments, like “Mount Olympus” inspired by Hercules, or “A Pirate’s Life” inspired by Pirates of the Caribbean. Check out the awe-inspiring concept art for these tracks!

Need even more ways to race? Play with up to three additional friends with local couch co-op or prove your skills on the competitive multiplayer game modes.

Many more new Disney and Pixar racers, karts, and tracks will unlock regularly with each new racing Season. Who will join the race next? You might have caught a glimpse in the Founder’s Pack trailer for upcoming additions – check the link below to check it out!

But enough looking, it’s time to get behind the wheel. Choose your Founder’s Pack to grab your exclusives, and be one of the first to hit the tracks in Disney Speedstorm today!

Everything New You Can Stream on Disney+ in May 2023

By Zach Johnson

From global superstars to intergalactic adventures, Disney+ has something for everyone in May. Coming up first on Wednesday, May 3, is the four-part series Ed Sheeran: The Sum of It All, which offers a definitive and searingly honest view into Ed Sheeran’s private life as he explores the universal themes that inspire his music. Watch him tackle various experiences and reflect upon the world, himself, and his new music.

Celebrate Star Wars Day on Thursday, May 4, with the premiere of Star Wars: Visions (Volume 2), featuring nine shorts from nine studios. Employing the most captivating animation styles from a variety of countries and cultures, the second volume offers a dynamic new perspective on the storied mythos of Star Wars. That same day, stream Season of 1 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. Set 200 years before The Phantom Menace, during the High Republic era, the animated series follows Jedi younglings Kai, Lys, and Nubs as they are sent by Master Yoda to train at a Jedi temple on the beautiful world of Tenoo under the tutelage of Master Zia. Together, they will blast off on adventures across Tenoo and throughout the galaxy aboard the Crimson Firehawk with ace pilot Nash and her droid, RJ-83! They’ll help those in need, clash with villainous pirates, discover exotic creatures, and learn what it takes to be a good friend.

On Friday, May 5, live the Entrelazados Live! Experience. The special includes the original songs “Donde Voy” and “Convénceme,” ‘90s covers, and so much more! A few days later, on Wednesday, May 10, The Muppets Mayhem will premiere with all episodes. The comedy series follows The Electric Mayhem Band—Dr. Teeth on vocals and keyboards, Animal on drums, Floyd Pepper on vocals and bass, Janice on vocals and lead guitar, Zoot on saxophone, and Lips on trumpet—on an epic, music-filled journey to record their first-ever studio album. With the help of a driven young music executive, Nora (Lily Singh), watch the old-school Muppet band comes face-to-face with the current day music scene as they try to finally record their first studio album.

On Friday, May 12, Disney’s Crater will crash land on Disney+. The movie tells the story of Caleb Channing (Isaiah Russell-Bailey), who was raised on a lunar mining colony and is about to be permanently relocated to an idyllic faraway planet following the death of his father (Scott Mescudi). To fulfill his father’s last wish before he leaves the colony, Caleb and his three best friends, Dylan (Billy Barratt), Borney (Orson Hong), and Marcus (Thomas Boyce)—along with a new arrival from Earth, Addison (Mckenna Grace)—decide to hijack a rover for one final adventure on a journey to explore a mysterious crater.

On Wednesday, May 24, stream all episodes of the Disney+ Original series American Born Chinese. Based on Gene Luen Yang’s graphic novel that chronicles the trials and tribulations of a regular American teenager whose life is forever changed when he befriends the son of a mythological god, the series tells the story of a young man’s battle for his own identity... told through family, comedy, and action-packed Kung-Fu! The series stars Ben Wang as Jin Wang, Daniel Wu as Sun Wukong “The Monkey King,” and two Oscar® winners: Ke Huy Quan as Freddy Wong and Michelle Yeoh as Guanyin. That same day, Season 2 of Chip ‘n’ Dale: Park Life will debut on Disney+. In their big city park, Chip and Dale are as eager as ever to increase their acorn stash. But their tumultuous dynamic makes it hard for things to ever go right. Along with Pluto, Donald Duck, and more Disney characters, the chipmunks take on a new chunk of trouble!

All the titles coming to Disney+ in May are listed below:

Miep (Bel Powley) and Tess (Eleanor Tomlinson) attend a party in A Small Light.

Tuesday, May 2
A Small Light (2 Episodes)

Ed Sheeran stands in a grassy field in a still from Ed Sheeran: The Sum of It All.

Wednesday, May 3
Ed Sheeran: The Sum of It All (Premiere) (All Episodes)
Eureka! (Season 1, 6 Episodes)

In a still from Star Wars: Visions, Julan Van Reeple reclines on a sculpture and is surrounded by creatures.

Thursday, May 4
Star Wars: Visions (Volume 2 Premiere) (All Episodes)
Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures (Season 1 Premiere) (Episodes 1–7)

In a still from Charles: In His Own Words, Prince William (left), Prince Charles (center), and Prince Harry (right) sit together during a private holiday at a ski resort in Klosters, Switzerland, in April 2000.

Friday, May 5
Charles: In His Own Words
Entrelazados Live! (Premiere)

Tuesday, May 9
A Small Light (Season 1, 2 Episodes)

In a still from In a still from The Muppets Mayhem, Nora appears shocked as Animal hangs upside down., Nora appears shocked as Animal hangs upside down.

Wednesday, May 10
Life Below Zero (Season 20)
The Muppets Mayhem (Premiere) (All Episodes)
Secrets of the Zoo: Tampa (Season 4)

In a still from Crater, Caleb (Isaiah Russell-Bailey), Marcus (Thomas Boyce), Addison (Mckenna Grace), and Borney (Orson Hong) appear afraid as they walk through an industrial area.

Friday, May 12
Crater (Premiere)

Tuesday, May 16
A Small Light (Season 1, 2 Episodes)

Wednesday, May 17
Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania
Critter Fixers: Country Vets (Season 5)
Saturdays (Season 1, 4 Episodes)

Tuesday, May 23
A Small Light (Season 1, 2 Episodes)

In a still from American Born Chinese, Wei-Chun (Jim Liu) and Guanyin (Michelle Yeoh) stand in front of lockers.

Wednesday, May 24
American Born Chinese (Premiere) (All Episodes)
Chip ‘n’ Dale: Park Life (Season 2 Premiere) (Episodes 1–6)
Kiff (Season 1, 4 Episodes)
Spidey and his Amazing Friends (Season 2, 5 Episodes)

Friday, May 26
Wild Life

Wednesday, May 31
Firebuds (Season 1, 6 Episodes)

DOWNLOADABLE: Celebrate Earth Month with a Disney100 Coloring Page

By Analise Warner

Happy Earth Month! Earn your wilderness badge by dashing through forest ferns, diving into new waters, or cruising by cacti with familiar friends Baloo, Flounder, and Bent-Tail Junior! Enjoy some fresh air and fresh art with an exclusive printable page titled “The World Around Us” from Disney Publishing’s new Art of Coloring: Disney 100 Years of Wonder book. Explore your creativity with this must-have adult coloring book that offers a fun and familiar look at everything Disney—past, present, and future. Download the inspiring coloring page below and remember: “The bare necessities are Mother Nature’s recipes that bring the bare necessities of life!” To learn more about the company’s efforts to support a healthier planet, visit DisneyPlanetPossible.com.

DOWNLOAD

Development art by Shane Enoch for the gallery poster from Disney100: The Exhibition, 2023. From Art of Coloring: Disney 100 Years of Wonder: 100 Images to Inspire Creativity by the Staff of the Walt Disney Archives (Disney Editions, 2023).

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Week

By Andie Hagemann

This week, binge a beloved sitcom and watch all-new episodes of a hit series. On Monday, all episodes of New Girl launch on Hulu. The Season 2 finale of Abbott Elementary airs Wednesday on ABC, and that same day, watch the first two episodes of Algiers, America on Hulu. On Thursday, Grey’s Anatomy airs a new episode on ABC, and Freeform debuts a brand-new episode of Good Trouble.

In a scene from New Girl, actor Zooey Deschanel sits on a chair opposite actors Jake Johnson, Max Greenfield, and Damon Wayans Jr., who sit on a couch.

New Girl—Monday, April 17, on Hulu
Who’s that girl? It’s Jess! The hilarious hit series “moves in” on the streamer beginning today. After a bad break-up, Jess Day (Zooey Deschanel) is in desperate need of a new place to live. An online search leads her to a great loft… and three single guys she’s never met before: Nick (Jake Johnson), Schmidt (Max Greenfield), and Winston (Lamorne Morris). Rounding out the madcap group is Jess’ childhood best friend Cece (Hannah Simone). The fivesome realize they need each other more than they thought they would and end up forming a charmingly dysfunctional—or strangely functional—family.

In a scene from Abbott Elementary, actors Tyler James Williams and Chris Perfetti stand in a NASA exhibit at the Franklin Institute.

Abbott Elementary—Wednesday, April 19, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on ABC
The Season 2 finale follows Abbott Elementary’s highly anticipated field trip to the Franklin Institute. Of course, the venture is not without some hilarious hijinks. Ava (Janelle James) teaches the students about aliens, leading to chaos when someone spots an extraterrestrial in the museum. Meanwhile, Gregory (Tyler James Williams) is eager to spend time with a reluctant Janine (Quinta Brunson), who is avoiding him. Episodes are available to stream the next day on Hulu.

The key art from Algiers, America depicts a football player squatting on a field holding a football.

Algiers, America—Wednesday, April 19, on Hulu
This Hulu Original docuseries from Andscape—intended only for mature audiences—tells the story of a remarkable high school football coach in the center of one of New Orleans’ oldest neighborhoods, and the community that’s fighting together there for hope and survival. Director Jackson Fager chronicles the journey of Coach Brice Brown, the Edna Karr Cougars, and their quest for a fifth state championship in six years. Discover the inspiring and remarkable story of the community’s triumph on the football field and far beyond. The first two episodes are available at launch with new episodes debut weekly thereafter on the streaming service.

In a scene from Grey’s Anatomy, actors Harry Shum Jr. and Midori Francis stand in a hospital hallway, and both wear blue scrubs and a white lab coat.

Grey’s Anatomy—Thursday, April 20, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on ABC
Emotions run high at Grey Sloan during this all-new episode as the threats against Bailey (Chandra Wilson) come to a terrifying head. Meanwhile, Amelia (Caterina Scorsone) takes her personal problems out on her work colleagues. Elsewhere, Lucas (Niko Terho) and Jules (Adelaide Kane) are pressured to make a risky decision on a patient, while Mika (Midori Francis) struggles with burnout. Episodes are available to stream the next day on Hulu.

In a scene from Good Trouble, actors Zuri Adele and Rob Nagle shake hands at a party while actor Yasmine Aker stands to the left of Adele.

Good Trouble—Thursday, April 20, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on Freeform
In a brand-new episode, Malika (Zuri Adele) attempts to prove she’s mastered her work/life balance. Meanwhile, when Joaquin (Bryan Craig) finds additional evidence, he’s tempted to resume his mission to take down Silas (Graham Sibley) and his cult, despite the extreme danger. Elsewhere, Dennis (Josh Pence) encounters a roadblock at his restaurant, leading him to contemplate a risky shortcut. Episodes are available to stream the next day on Hulu.

Beyond Wild Pin Set Celebrating Disney’s Animal Kingdom 25th Anniversary

By Peyton Liebler

Twenty-five years of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, and all we can say is: “Safari, so great!” D23 Gold Members can join in on a jungle of a jubilee and venture back through two-plus decades at Disney’s Animal Kingdom with this zanily zoological set of pins. And we’re not “lion” when we say, these are sure to be the “mane” attraction of any collection!

Since opening on Earth Day, April 22, 1998, Disney’s Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort has welcomed millions of visitors and delighted explorers of all ages. Featuring a unique approach to storytelling through attractions and experiences, Disney’s Animal Kingdom allows guests to discover all there is to know about the natural world through both real-life and imagined representations of animals and places—while also communicating vital messages about conservation. From traveling through a vibrant savannah on an African safari and braving an expedition on the highest mountain on Earth, to venturing back in time to the cretaceous period and even soaring through the air of a lush alien world, Disney’s Animal Kingdom has given many the opportunity to appreciate the intrinsic value of the natural world around us.

Animal Kingdom 25th Pin
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Roar with pride and celebrate 25 wild years of Disney’s Animal Kingdom with these fur-ocious pins! They’re a fierce way to reflect on a groundbreaking park that celebrates the magic of nature. The set features pins representative of each “paw-some” area of the park—including a Carnotaurus, a Yeti, a Giraffe, and even an Ikran (or as we call it, a banshee); they surrounds a special center pin representing the Tree of Life, which is emblazoned with “25 Years of Animal Kingdom.” Give into your beastly nature and get your claws on these pins now!

Our Disney’s Animal Kingdom 25th Anniversary pin set, offered in a limited edition of 1,000, is available to D23 Gold Members at 8 a.m. PST on shopDisney, Tuesday, April 18, 2023.

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*Available while supplies last. To purchase, you must log in to shopDisney.com with the Disney account tied to D23 Gold Membership. These pin sets are sold for $29.99 each, plus applicable sales tax. Maximum of two (2) pin sets of this style for purchase per D23 Gold Member for online orders. Shipping not available to PO boxes; shipping and handling fees may vary for all online orders. Other restrictions may apply. All information is subject to change including, but not limited to, artwork, release dates, editions sizes, and retail prices.

Are You a Disney Expert? Try This Week’s Trivia Challenge!

As a member of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club, you know your magic! This week we’re putting your Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park knowledge to the test to see if you are the ultimate Disney fan.

Where can you find Fantasia concept art inside Disney’s Animal Kingdom?

Correct! Wrong!

Fantasia concept art can be found in DinoLand U.S.A., inside Restaurantosaurus, at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park.

Are You a Disney Expert? Try This Week’s Trivia Challenge!
You are the ultimate Disney fan!
Looks like you are a Disney expert! Thank you for participating in this week’s Trivia Challenge. We’ll see you next week for your chance to uphold your title as the ultimate Disney fan!
Just keep swimming! Just keep swimming!
Thank you for participating in this week’s Trivia Challenge! These questions are tricky, so don’t stop swimming yet. We’ll see you next week for your chance to earn the title of the ultimate Disney fan!

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Weekend Presented by State Farm®

By Andie Hagemann

This weekend, there is something for every member of the family to enjoy! Watch brand-new episodes of Kiffand Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur, both airing Saturday on Disney Channel, and then celebrate the seventh anniversary of The Jungle Book (2016) by streaming the live-action/CGI film on Disney+. On Sunday, Captain America: The First Avenger airs on FX, followed by a new, tune-filled episode of American Idol on ABC.

Kiff, an animated orange squirrel, and Barry, a teal bunny, approach a large panda as it reads a blue book in a scene from Kiff. 

Kiff—Saturday, April 15, at 8:30 a.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel and Disney XD
In the brand-new episode, a seemingly magical hat grants Barry (voiced by H Michael Croner) a much-needed boost of self-confidence. However, when Kiff (voiced by Kimiko Glenn) loses the hat, she desperately attempts to recover it. The hijinks continue as Kiff and Barry find someone’s personal journal; as the duo seeks to return the journal to its owner, they try their best to not expose the deeply personal entries… but of course, they experience a few hiccups along the way. Episodes are also available to stream on Disney+.

In a scene from Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur, animated teen girls Lunella and Casey look at a miniature Devil Dinosaur in Lunella’s cupped hands.

Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur—Saturday, April 15, at 10 a.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel
The all-new episode follows Devil Dinosaur (voiced by Fred Tatasciore), who is feeling a little self-conscious about his size. So, he enlists the help of super-genius Lunella (voiced by Diamond White) to create a potion to make him temporarily small. However, this seemingly fail-proof plan goes hilariously awry. Grammy® Award-winning musical artist Method Man aka Cliff Smith voices the character Torg—before or after the episode, go behind the scenes of Method Man’s appearance in this special featurette.

In a scene from The Jungle Book, actor Neel Sethi plays Mowgli and stands opposite Kaa, a CGI python hanging from an overhead tree.

The Jungle Book—Saturday, April 15, on Disney+
This Saturday, “forget about your worries” and celebrate the 2016 live-action/CGI epic’s seventh anniversary. Directed by Disney Legend Jon Favreau, the film—based on the Rudyard Kipling stories and inspired by the 1967 animated feature—follows Mowgli (Neel Sethi), a man-cub who has been raised by a family of wolves. But he finds he’s no longer welcome in the jungle when fearsome tiger Shere Khan (voiced by Idris Elba) vows to eliminate what he sees as a threat. Mowgli embarks on a journey of self-discovery, guided by panther-turned-stern mentor Bagheera (voiced by Ben Kingsley) and the free-spirited bear Baloo (voiced by Bill Murray). Along the way, Mowgli also encounters jungle creatures who do not exactly have his best interests at heart, including Kaa (voiced by Scarlett Johansson), a python, and the smooth-talking King Louie (voiced by Christopher Walken).

In a scene from Captain America: The First Avenger, actor Chris Evans plays Steve Rogers/Captain America and wears a brown leather coat over his Super Hero suit; he walks alongside actor Sebastian Stan, who plays Bucky Barnes.

Captain America: The First Avenger—Sunday, April 16, at 5 p.m. ET/PT on FX
It’s 1941 and the world is in the throes of WWII. Steve Rogers (Chris Evans) wants to do his part and join the United States’ armed forces, but he’s automatically rejected due to his small stature. However, Steve’s dream is realized when he is accepted into a mysterious experimental program that turns him into the super-soldier Captain America. The unlikely hero teams up with his best friend Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan) and Agent Peggy Carter (Hayley Atwell) to take down HYDRA, a Nazi-backed organization. The action-packed film is available to stream on Disney+.

American Idol judges Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan, and Katy Perry pose with the Season 21 contestants, as everyone wears purple and white leis around their necks.

American Idol—Sunday, April 16, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC
Superstar judges Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan, and Katy Perry and the remaining contestants say “Aloha” to paradise in Sunday’s all-new episode. The singing competition series returns to Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaii, for more showstopping performances. Singer and songwriter Allen Stone mentors the Idol hopefuls as they prepare to take the stage. Who will capture America’s first open vote of the season? (Tune in on Monday for Part 2!) Episodes are available to stream the next day on Hulu.

How Jeremy Renner Builds Hope in Rennervations

By Zach Johnson

Jeremy Renner isn’t just a hero onscreen—he’s a hero in real life, too.

Disney+ celebrated Renner’s new Original series, Rennervations, with a red carpet premiere, FYC panel, and block party reception Tuesday night at the Westwood Regency Village Theatre in Los Angeles. Joining Renner were co-host and business partner Rory Millikin, executive producer Romilda De Luca, executive producer and showrunner Patrick Costello, and members of the series’ build crew, including Roxy Molohon and Rob “Bender” Park. Special guests included members of the charities featured in the series, including The Base Chicago, Big Brothers Big Sisters Northern Nevada, and Casa Hogar, as well as stars from Disney Branded Television’s Doogie Kamealoha, M.D., High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, and Secrets of Sulphur Springs, to name a few. Executives including Bob Iger, Chief Executive Officer, The Walt Disney Company; Dana Walden, Co-Chairman, Disney Entertainment, The Walt Disney Company; Craig Erwich, president, ABC Entertainment, Hulu and Disney Branded Television Streaming Originals; Ayo Davis, President, Disney Branded Television; and Kevin Feige, President, Marvel Studios, also turned out for the event.

Dana Walden, Jeremy Renner, and Bob Iger pose for photographers at the Rennervations premiere.

In a post-screening Q&A, moderated by ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel, Renner opened up about the genesis of Rennervations, a four-part series that embraces his lifelong passion of giving back to communities around the world by reimagining large-scale vehicles to meet a community’s needs. Renner said he began collecting several decommissioned vehicles about five years ago—he owns several lots in Nevada, in fact—with the intention of reimagining them. “There’s always a purpose for every single one of them,” he said, “and the purpose kept changing as I kept buying more.”

“They’re perfectly good machines and they shouldn’t go to waste,” the actor continued. “I started to think of ways to repurpose them, and then when it became about kids directly, I got really excited about it and started going really, really crazy.”

In Rennervations (now streaming on Disney+), Renner and his all-star build crew turn a tour bus into a mobile music studio, a delivery truck into a mobile water treatment facility, a shuttle bus into a mobile recreation center, and a city bus into a mobile dance studio. Renner’s celebrity pals Vanessa Hudgens, Anthony Mackie, Anil Kapoor, and Sebastián Yatra then help him deliver the finished vehicles to each of the organizations.

Jimmy Kimmel interviews Jeremy Renner at the Rennervations premiere.

Molohon admitted Renner’s ideas were “really ambitious,” but said he inspired the build crew to think outside the box. “When we presented our concept drawings, I thought, ‘I don’t know how we’re going to do this,’” she said. “His passion and drive for what he was doing—for helping these kids—motivated us all to give 110 percent.”

Indeed. According to Renner, one of the crew members was so inspired by his time with Big Brothers Big Sisters Northern Nevada that he ended up joining the program himself. “That’s the whole point of this,” Renner said. “The end result— secretly, for me—is that somebody would get inspired to actually do something... There’s a kid who now has a big brother. His life will be changed. That is amazing!”

Disney D23 Rewind—Week of April 10

By Courtney Potter

An image promoting the eats and treats to come on Marvel Day at Sea in 2024, on select Disney Dream sailings. Two cupcakes are seen; the one on the left has a chocolate depiction of Iron Man on top and is wrapped in red paper with red and yellow sprinkles, and the one on the right has a Spider-Man topper and is wrapped in blue paper with red glossy frosting.

Marvel Day at Sea Offers Up Heroic Eats and Treats

Marvel Day at Sea, a themed celebration on select Disney Dream sailings in 2024, features all-day entertainment including exciting meet and greets and thrilling stage shows… and the cherry on top? The food and beverages, from Iron Man brownies to Marvel-themed lattes!

Cabanas, the main buffet on board the Disney Dream, will undergo an overnight Marvel makeover with Super Hero posters and banners across the eatery—and lavish food displays and specialty desserts will be featured on the menu. Meanwhile, over at Vanellope’s Sweets and Treats, special snacks will include Groot marshmallow sticks, Captain America brownies, and Marvel-themed gelato flavors.

Those craving caffeine can head to the onboard coffee shops, which will serve the special Captain Marvel mocha latte. Plus, designs like Captain America and Black Panther will decorate the foam of other hot drinks.

The food will truly shine at the rotational dining dinners… The Marvel Day at Sea menu is consistent across all scheduled locations, complete with themed place settings and costumed servers. So, what can you expect? Look for delicious dishes such as Black Panther Kachumbari Salad, featuring a romaine wedge served on a bed of diced  tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions with a lemon-cilantro mayonnaise; Thor Mjolnir Meatballs and Pasta, with beef and veal meatballs in a rustic tomato sauce with penne pasta, broccoli, ricotta cheese, buttered breadcrumbs, and basil; Ravagers’ Devil’s Food Cake, with its layers of chocolate cake filled with chocolate Chantilly crème; and themed beverages like the Multiverse, containing Zignum Mezcal, Reposado, blueberry, grapefruit, and Electricops.

Marvel Day at Sea will be offered on 10 five-night Caribbean and Bahamian cruises sailing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The itinerary for cruises sailing January 7, January 21, February 4, February 18, and March 3, 2024, include George Town, Grand Cayman, and Castaway Cay; for cruises sailing January 12, January 26, February 9, February 23, and March 8, the itinerary includes Cozumel, Mexico, and Castaway Cay.

ICYMI—Icons of Disney Storytelling: Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez

In D23’s continuing series with some of the most prolific storytellers from around the worlds of Disney, we hear from Emmy®, Grammy®, and Oscar® winners Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez—the songwriting team behind Frozen, whose most recent work, the Hulu Original series Up Here, is now streaming. See what they had to say about working for The Walt Disney Company and telling stories through song by clicking here.

In concept art for Disneyland After Dark: Pride Nite, from left to right, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, and Clarabelle are seen standing in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle in their colorful Pride Night Cavalcade outfits.

Disneyland After Dark Celebrates First-Ever Pride Nite—This June

Big news from the good folks at Disneyland Resort: During Pride Month this June, Disneyland After Dark will bring the first-ever Pride Nite for two unforgettable evenings at Disneyland Park: Tuesday, June 13, and Thursday, June 15.

Disneyland After Dark: Pride Nite is a separately ticketed event inside Disneyland Park that celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community and allies, and will include themed entertainment, Disney characters, one-of-a-kind photo opportunities, specialty menu items, event merchandise, and more. It begins with a three-hour, pre-party mix-in from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. PT, then the private party runs from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. PT—when guests can ride some popular attractions after regular park hours. (A theme park reservation is not required.)

So, what can you expect? A Pride Nite Cavalcade down Main Street U.S.A., featuring Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Clarabelle, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, and Goofy dressed in fun special attire; the Ohana Dance Party at Tomorrowland Terrace, where a DJ (alongside Stitch) will be spinning great tunes; a Pride Nite Dance Club along the Rivers of America; and even country line dancing at the Golden Horseshoe!

But that’s not all: In addition to the special offerings during this event, guests will receive unlimited digital downloads of Disney PhotoPass photos taken during the party, along with commemorative keepsakes including a souvenir credential and event guide map. (Separately priced Disney PhotoPass packages are not included.)

A limited number of tickets will go on pre-sale for Magic Key holders beginning April 18 (no earlier than 9 a.m. PT), and to the general public on April 20 (no earlier than 9 a.m. PT) on Disneyland.com, subject to availability—so mark those calendars! And for more info, visit the Disneyland After Dark: Pride Nite page at Disneyland.com…

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Weekend Presented by State Farm®

So, wondering what to watch this weekend from around the worlds of Disney? Let us help you decide! There are brand-new episodes of Kiff and Marvel’s Moon Girl and Devil Dinosaur on Disney Channel; the birth (so to speak) of a Super Hero in Captain America: The First Avenger on FX; the always enjoyable Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa episode of American Idol on ABC; and so much more…

In an image promoting the 2023 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, a hand is holding a cup containing a yogurt-type treat with a cookie on top; the cup is labeled with the words “Emile’s Fromage Montage,” as well as images of cheese and Emile the rat from Ratatouille. EPCOT’s Spaceship Earth can be seen blurrily in the background.

2023 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival Begins July 27

Amazing news for food fanatics: Our pals at the Disney Parks Blog have announced that the 2023 EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival presented by CORKCICLE® will officially dish up delights at Walt Disney World Resort from July 27 through November 18! Sip and savor mouthwatering dishes at more than 25 Global Marketplaces throughout EPCOT—including returning favorites The Fry Basket and Flavors from Fire. Several new Global Marketplaces will open later during the festival, as summer turns to fall…

As per usual, the fun doesn’t stop with the food; there will be many ways for folks to enjoy this year’s event: Fromage fans can take part in Emile’s Fromage Montage, a cool way to try tasty cheese dishes from around the world (using your Festival Passport) that concludes in a sweet treat; and families can embark on Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak—a Ratatouille-inspired adventure where guests both young and the young at heart can search for Remy throughout World Showcase and the Global Marketplaces.

Meanwhile, during the Halloween season, guests can partake in Pluto’s Pumpkin Pursuit, a special pumpkin scavenger hunt from September 29 through October 31. The festival will also welcome back the popular Eat to the Beat Concert Series presented by Florida Blue Medicare at America Gardens Theatre; performers will be announced at a later date. Plus, bring the festival magic home with official event merchandise including apparel, home décor, trading pins, and so much more.

Planning an EPCOT visit from July through November? Make sure to check out TasteEPCOT.com for more info…

The Adventure Begins in New Crater Trailer

Disney+ recently premiered the trailer for their Original Movie Crater, which debuts exclusively on the streaming service next month. Directed by Kyle Patrick Alvarez, the coming-of-age sci-fi adventure stars Isaiah Russell-Bailey, Mckenna Grace, Billy Barratt, Orson Hong, Thomas Boyce, and Scott Mescudi.

Crater is the story of Caleb Channing (Russell-Bailey), who was raised on a lunar mining colony and is about to be permanently relocated to an idyllic faraway planet following the death of his father (Mescudi). But before leaving, to fulfill his dad’s last wish, he and his three best friends—Dylan (Barratt), Borney (Hong), and Marcus (Boyce)—and a new arrival from Earth, Addison (Grace), hijack a rover for one final adventure on a journey to explore a mysterious crater.

The film, written by John Griffin and produced by Shawn Levy, Dan Levine, and Dan Cohen, begins streaming on Friday, May 12.

Updates From Disneyland Paris, Including Walt Disney Studios Park

As we celebrate Disneyland Paris’ birthday this week, they added to the festivities by announcing—via the Disney Parks Blog—some amazing updates coming to the resort this year.

In the clip above, Walt Disney Imagineers look over (and work on) the in-progress Frozen-themed land at Walt Disney Studios Park, inspired by the hit Walt Disney Animation Studios films. Near the Arendelle Castle, the teams have already welcomed their very first trees; all told, more than one thousand trees will be planted by the end of the expansion project!

This summer, it’ll be the season of Pixar at Disneyland Park, when Pizzeria Bella Notte will soon debut a new room inspired by the Disney and Pixar film Luca. Additionally, the Mexican-themed restaurant Fuente Del Oro in Frontierland will transform into Casa de Coco – Restaurante de Familia. Plus, cross the way at Walt Disney Studios Park, “Toon Plaza” will soon be transformed into an immersive experience paying tribute to Pixar films; this whimsical space will soon include a new raised backdrop featuring Ember and Wade from Disney and Pixar’s upcoming feature Elemental.

But that’s not all: Walt Disney Studios Park will also be home to the new show “Together: a Pixar Musical Adventure,” coming to the Studio Theater. This 30-minute show blends together both French and English dialogue in an original story (based on the worlds of Toy Story, Monsters, Inc., and more) featuring spectacular effects and a live eight-person orchestra! And there’s more: it’s a small world at Disneyland Paris will make its big comeback on May 5, and Les Mystères du Nautilus will soon open after getting a complete subsea refresh. 

Exciting New Trailer for The Marvels—Coming This November

Carol Danvers is off to save the world once more in The Marvels, which released a thrilling first trailer earlier this week…

The film follows Carol Danvers (Brie Larson), aka Captain Marvel, who has reclaimed her identity from the tyrannical Kree and taken revenge on the Supreme Intelligence. Unintended consequences see Carol shouldering the burden of a destabilized universe. When her duties send her to an anomalous wormhole linked to a Kree revolutionary, her powers become entangled with that of Jersey City super-fan Kamala Khan (Iman Vellani), aka Ms. Marvel, and Carol’s estranged niece, now S.A.B.E.R. astronaut Captain Monica Rambeau (Teyonah Parris). Together, this unlikely trio must team up and learn to work in concert to save the universe as… The Marvels.

Also starring Samuel L. Jackson, Zawe Ashton, and Park Seo-joon, The Marvels is directed by Nia DaCosta and produced by Kevin Feige. The Marvel Studios film releases in its full glory in theaters on Friday, November 10!

Disney+ Reveals Official The Muppets Mayhem Trailer and Series Guest Stars

More exciting Electric Mayhem news for all you Muppets fans out there: Disney+ has debuted the official—and hilarious!—trailer for the new Original series The Muppets Mayhem, starring Lilly Singh, Tahj Mowry, Saara Chaudry, and The Electric Mayhem band. The musical comedy series premieres with all episodes on Wednesday, May 10, only on Disney+.

The series follows the iconic sextet—Dr. Teeth on vocals and keyboards, Animal on drums, Floyd Pepper on vocals and bass, Janice on vocals and lead guitar, Zoot on saxophone, and Lips on trumpet—on an epic, music-filled journey to record their first-ever studio album. With the help of a driven young music executive, Nora (Singh), the old-school Muppet band comes face-to-face with the current-day music scene as they try to finally record their first studio album.

Disney+ also announced a truly star-studded lineup of guest stars—in addition to the previously announced Anders Holm—joining The Electric Mayhem Band on their journey: Paula Abdul, Steve Aoki, Rachel Bloom, Nicole Byer, Sofia Carson, Morgan Freeman, Kesha, Tommy Lee, Lil Nas X, Kristen Schaal, Ben Schwartz, Ryan Seacrest, Kevin Smith, Chris Stapleton, Danny Trejo, and “Weird Al” Yankovic, to name a few. What a cavalcade!

The sure-to-be-rockin’ The Muppets Mayhem soundtrack will be available on streaming platforms also beginning May 10—and the band’s debut album, The Electric Mayhem, is set for release on vinyl on Friday, May 12. Pre-save/pre-add the digital soundtrack and pre-order the vinyl album here… and listen to your favorite tracks from the Muppets on the official playlist here.

All the Coolest News from Star Wars Celebration Europe 2023

Unless you were off-planet this last weekend—and how exciting if you were—you probably heard about all the incredible updates to come out of Star Wars Celebration Europe. Should you need a refresher… or, y’know, if you did just come back from that space vacay and you haven’t seen all the amazing trailers (Ahsoka, anyone?) and casting news, click here and rejoice in the galactic revelry!

In concept art for Rogers: The Musical at Disney California Adventure Park, Steve Rogers aka Captain America is seen in the middle of a stage, holding his shield, as if coming out of the “pod” that helped give him super strength. He’s surrounded by various characters (including Agent Peggy Carter) on either side, like they’re in the middle of a musical number. The proscenium of the stage is bathed in red and white light, and the backdrop is bathed in blue light.

Rogers: The Musical Debuts June 30 at Disney California Adventure Park

We could watch this all day… yes, Rogers: The Musical will officially premiere at Disney California Adventure Park on Friday, June 30, for a limited time.

Based on the life of Steve Rogers, aka Captain America, the show first debuted as a fictional Broadway musical in the Disney+ Original series Hawkeye. Kevin Feige, president of Marvel Studios, then treated guests at the D23 Expo 2022 to a pop-up version of the musical’s climactic number, “Save the City,” based on the battle of New York from the first Avengers film.

Our friends at the Disney Parks Blog revealed earlier this week (with concept art, seen above) that the 30-minute production will arrive at the Hyperion Theater at Disneyland Resort this summer, with musical numbers including “Save the City” from Hawkeye as well as “Star Spangled Man” from the film Captain America: The First Avenger and five brand-new, original songs.

This production follows the story of Steve Rogers from his humble beginnings during World War II to his ascent as Captain America. He’ll be joined by Peggy Carter, Nick Fury, and members of the Avengers.

Rogers: The Musical will run from Tuesday through Saturday most weeks.

See the Epic New Trailer for Peter Pan & Wendy

Disney+ recently debuted a thrilling new trailer for the original film Peter Pan & Wendy. The live-action reimagining of the J.M. Barrie novel and the 1953 animated classic Peter Pan premieres Friday, April 28, exclusively on the streaming service.

The film introduces Wendy Darling (Ever Anderson), a young girl afraid to leave her childhood home behind, who meets Peter Pan (Alexander Molony), a boy who refuses to grow up. Alongside her brothers and a tiny fairy, Tinker Bell (Yara Shahidi), she travels with Peter to the magical world of Never Land. There, she encounters an evil pirate captain, Captain Hook (Jude Law), and embarks on a thrilling and dangerous adventure that will change her life forever.

Peter Pan & Wendy, directed by David Lowery, also stars Alyssa Wapanatâhk, Joshua Pickering, Jacobi Jupe, Molly Parker, Alan Tudyk, and Jim Gaffigan.