Behind the Scenes of General Hospital’s 60th Anniversary Celebration

By Andie Hagemann

ABC’s daytime drama General Hospital celebrated its milestone 60th anniversary on Saturday, April 1, 2023. For six decades, the Emmy® Award-winning daytime drama has shared engaging stories about the lives of the diverse and evolving residents of Port Charles, New York. From steamy romances to unparalleled family drama, General Hospital continues to impact and resonate with viewers around the country with its trailblazing storylines.

The series kicked off its anniversary programming with a special episode honoring the late Sonya Eddy, who played head nurse Epiphany Johnson since 2006. The iconic Nurses Ball—a fictional glamorous charity event complete with red-carpet fashion and breathtaking musical performances—returns this week and includes many star-studded appearances. And the dynamic Jane Elliot returns to Port Charles as the legendary Tracy Quartermaine later this month.

Amid the celebration, General Hospital showrunner and executive producer Frank Valentini joins D23: The Official Disney Fan Club to discuss the milestone and tease what’s to come on the longest-running American soap opera.

In a scene from an episode of General Hospital, actors Donnell Turner, Robert Gossett, Michael Easton, Dioni Michelle Collins, and Marc Samuel sit in church pews as Rebecca Herbst gives a speech.

D23: We offer our deepest condolences for the loss of Sonya Eddy. What is your favorite memory with Sonya either in front of the camera or behind the scenes?
Frank Valentini (FV): Sonya was a very special human being, and she and I were very close. We bonded over music. When I brought back the Nurses Ball, I wanted her to sing some songs. Every year I would go to her and say, “I want you to sing this song.” She would start laughing and say, “I love that song. How do you know?” One year I wanted her and the other actors to sing “Everyday People” by Sly and the Family Stone. She said, “I can’t believe you’re picking that song; it’s one of my favorites.” She was just one of the warmest, loveliest people.

D23: How does General Hospital plan to honor her legacy and Epiphany’s?
FV: I thought the best way is to highlight some of her most incredible moments on the show within the tribute episode as the cast recalls different things about Epiphany. Showing Sonya at her best feels, to me, like the best way to honor her and also bring a certain amount of comfort to the audience, to the cast and crew—but, more importantly, to her family. She was a joy to be with on set, always laughing and smiling, and such a terrific character.

In a scene from an episode of General Hospital, actor Chandra Wilson holds a microphone and interviews actors Kirsten Storms and Jacklyn Zemen on the Nurses Ball red carpet. 

D23: Chandra Wilson returns to General Hospital as a guest star for the highly anticipated Nurses Ball episodes. What was it like to have her back on set?
FV: When she first guest starred, I was lucky enough to direct her scenes. She played a patient in the hospital who had severe Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Chandra is such a talented actor that she was able to deftly portray the ethos, pathos, and struggle of someone with OCD. Another time she played a family counselor, and she was so incredible that we knew we needed her back as the co-host of the Nurses Ball. This year, with the reintroduction of the Nurses Ball, I thought it would be fun for her to host it herself. The day we filmed, she was filming for Grey’s Anatomy as well, so she had seven or eight hours on our set before doing another eight on her own show; she’s so hard-working. I can’t say enough nice things about her, both personally and professionally. She’s one of the nicest, most professional, and talented people I’ve ever met.

D23: What can you tease about the Nurses Ball, which returns after a three-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic?
FV: While it’s an incredible amount of work, the Nurses Ball is a return to the fun and the comradery between the technical side and the creative side, while bringing in artists and creators who we don’t work with on a regular basis. Cris Judd did all the choreography, and he did such a beautiful job. Our technical team handles all our screens and the images on those screens, along with the in-house crew, to help bring the Nurses Ball to life with jib cameras, spa lights, and extra equipment on a giant ballroom set with 50 people dressed to the nines. There’s so much work, but when it all comes together, it’s like having dessert at the end of a really nice dinner party you host.

General Hospital actors Josh Kelly, Charles Shaughnessy, Sofia Mattsson, Carolyn Hennesy, Tristan Rogers, Lynn Herring, James Patrick Stuart, Kin Shriner, Finola Hughes, Jacklyn Zeman, Robert Gossett, Donnell Turner, Brook Kerr, Nicholas Chavez, Tabyana Ali, Dominic Zamprogna, Kelly Monaco, Avery Kristen Pohl, Kathleen Gati, Cynthia Watros, Eden Mccoy, Evan Hofer, Maurice Benard, Gregory Harrison, Genie Francis, Jon Lindstrom, Cassandra James, Kirsten Storms, Laura Wright, Cameron Mathison, Roger Howarth, Bradford Anderson, Nancy Lee Grahn, Michael Easton, Jophielle Love, Maura West, Lisa Locicero, Rebecca Herbst, Wally Kurth, Tajh Bellow, Haley Pullos, Jane Elliot, Lexi Ainsworth, Amanda Setton, Viron Weaver, Chad Duell, Katelyn Macmullen, Parry Shen, Josh Swickard, Lydia Look, William Lipton, Vernee Watson, Tanisha Harper, Kristina Wagner, and John J. York.

D23: Can you tease what (and who) viewers can expect to see onscreen in the upcoming months?
FV: We find out what Victor Cassadine (Charles Shaughnessy) has been up to and a continuation of the Ice Princess storyline. The climax will have great impact on the canvas to the rest of the spring and summer. ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith will return as a guest star. He’s fantastic and has a fun story arc coming up. Also, fan-favorite Emma Samms will reprise the role of Holly Sutton this month.

D23: ABC announced a stage on the Prospect Studios lot will be dedicated to General Hospital to honor the 60th anniversary. How did you react upon hearing this news?
FV: It’s virtually impossible to encompass the memories, experiences, and stories that have been on the show over the last 60 years. This dedication, however, is a beautiful symbolic way to honor the past, present, and future of General Hospital. Everything about this building is General Hospital, so to be honored is almost like receiving the Stanley Cup, an Oscar®, and an Emmy in your own home. We’re so appreciative and honored.

General Hospital airs weekdays on ABC and is available to stream on Hulu.

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Week

By Andie Hagemann

From aspiring basketball superstars to a reluctant advice columnist, here’s everything coming to your TV—and assorted streaming devices—this week. Beginning Wednesday, binge all episodes of The Crossover on Disney+, and then watch an all-new episode of The Goldbergs airing that same night on ABC. A new episode of Good Trouble debuts Thursday on Freeform, which includes an appearance by two beloved characters. All episodes of Tiny Beautiful Things launch Friday on Hulu, and a new episode of Secrets of Sulphur Springs airs that night on Disney Channel.

In a scene from an episode of The Crossover, actor Derek Luke leans over a couch to speak to actors Jalyn Hall and Amir O’Neil.

The Crossover—Wednesday, April 5, on Disney+
Based on the bestselling novel by Kwame Alexander, the Disney+ Original series follows twin brothers and middle school basketball phenoms Jordan “J.B.” (Amir O’Neil) and Josh “Filthy” (Jalyn Hall) Bell as they struggle with growing up, growing apart, and finding themselves—on and off the court. Filthy is determined to be the next LeBron James while J.B. is content to dutifully go along for the ride. But as J.B.’s interest in basketball wanes, the brothers’ tight-knit bond is put in jeopardy. Through his lyrical poetry, an adult version of Filthy (voiced by Daveed Diggs) narrates the story of their coming of age, on and off the court, as their father, Chuck (Derek Luke), adjusts to life after professional basketball and their mother, Dr. Crystal Bell (Sabrina Revelle), finally pursues lifelong dreams of her own. As the brothers navigate life’s growing pains, they make the startling discovery that there might be more to life than basketball. All episodes are available to stream at launch.

In a scene from an episode of The Goldbergs, actor Tim Meadows stands in a hallway and wears an orange and tan argyle sweater vest, tan pants, and a peach, button-down shirt.

The Goldbergs—Wednesday, April 5, at 8:30 p.m. ET/PT on ABC
In the all-new episode, Erica (Hayley Orrantia) and Geoff (Sam Lerner) search for a place to enjoy a moment alone, though their quest is not without some unexpected hiccups along the way. Elsewhere, Adam (Sean Giambrone) visits Pop-Pop’s old apartment, and discovers an item from the past, and realizes they have more in common than he thought. The series also stars Wendi McLendon-Covey, Troy Gentile, Judd Hirsch, and Tim Meadows. The episode is available to stream the next day on Hulu.

In a scene from an episode of Good Trouble, actor Cierra Ramirez hugs actor Sherri Saum as they stand outside on a balcony.

Good Trouble—Thursday, April 6, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on Freeform
As Mariana (Cierra Ramirez) mulls a big decision, she returns home to ask her moms, Lena (Sherri Saum) and Stef (Teri Polo), for guidance. Meanwhile, Joaquin (Bryan Craig) questions whether Jenna (Maiara Walsh) is ready to bring Silas (Graham Sibley) to justice, and Alice (Sherry Cola) grows impatient with her much-older fellow writers at work which jeopardizes her productivity. The episode is available to stream the next day on Hulu.

In a scene from an episode of Tiny Beautiful Things, actor Kathryn Hahn talks to actor Elizabeth Hinkler and wears a denim jacket and a yellow, graphic T-shirt.

Tiny Beautiful Things—Friday, April 7, on Hulu
Based on the bestselling collection by Cheryl Strayed, the new series—intended only for mature audiences—follows Clare (Kathryn Hahn) a floundering writer who becomes a revered advice columnist while her own life is falling apart. Through Dear Sugar, Clare explores her most pivotal moments from childhood through present day, and excavates the beauty, struggle, and humor in her unhealed wounds. She shows her readers and herself that we are not beyond rescue. The series also stars Sarah Pidgeon, Quentin Plair, and Tanzyn Crawford, and guest stars Owen Painter, Merritt Wever, Elizabeth Hinkler, and Michaela Watkins. All episodes are available to stream at launch.

In a publicity still for Secrets of Sulphur Springs, actors Preston Oliver, Kyliegh Curran, and Elle Graham sit on a staircase.

Secrets of Sulphur Springs—Friday, April 7, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel
The mysterious ghost in Room 205 continues to wreak havoc around the Tremont. After the kids discover the evil presence has been privy to their conversations, the ghost is forced to make changes to his devious plans. The series stars Preston Oliver, Kyliegh Curran, Elle Graham, Kelly Frye, Josh Braaten, Landon Gordon, Madeleine McGraw, Diandra Lyle, Johari Washington, and Eugene Byrd.

Live-Action Reimagining of Disney’s Moana in Development

By Zach Johnson

What can we say except, “You’re welcome!”

Dwayne Johnson had Disney fans hooked when he revealed today in a recorded message from Hawaii that a live-action reimagining of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ 2016 hit feature film Moana is in development. The announcement was shared by Chief Executive Officer Bob Iger during The Walt Disney Company’s Meeting of Shareholders Webcast.

The new film is produced by Johnson, Dany Garcia, and Hiram Garcia via their Seven Bucks Productions and Beau Flynn via Flynn Picture Co. Executive producers include Auli‘i Cravalho, who voiced Moana, and Scott Sheldon of Flynn Picture Co. Jared Bush and Dana Ledoux Miller (who is of Samoan heritage) will also take part in the production. Bush, who was a director and co-writer of Disney’s Oscar®-winning film Encanto and a writer and co-director on Disney’s Oscar-winning film Zootopia, wrote the screenplay for Moana (2016).

Like its animated predecessor—which grossed nearly $644 million at the global box office and was among the Top 15 movies streamed in the U.S. in 2022—the live-action reimagining of Moana will celebrate the islands, communities, and traditions of Pacific Islanders as seen through the eyes of a young woman eager to pave her own path. Moana’s journey of self-discovery and reflection on the lives of her ancestors won hearts worldwide, as did her newfound friendship with an exiled demigod named Maui.

“I’m deeply humbled and overcome with gratitude to bring the beautiful story of Moana to the live-action big screen,” said Johnson, who plans to return to the fictional world to set sail with Moana. “This story is my culture, and this story is emblematic of our people’s grace and warrior strength. I wear this culture proudly on my skin and in my soul, and this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reunite with Maui—inspired by the mana and spirit of my late grandfather, High Chief Peter Maivia—is one that runs very deep for me. I want to thank my partners at Disney for their strong commitment to this special endeavor, because there is no better world for us to honor the story of our people, our passion, and our purpose than through the realm of music and dance, which is at the core of who we are as Polynesian people.”

Cravalho, a Native Hawaiian actor who helped shape the protagonist in the original film, said Moana’s reach is sweeping. “She has had such a profound impact on how we think of Disney princesses,” Cravalho explained. “Moana’s strength and perseverance are inspiring—to audiences around the world, to me, and to everyone who helped bring her to life. I’m looking forward to sharing her story in a whole new way.”

Sean Bailey, president of Walt Disney Studios Motion Picture Production (Disney Live Action), said the film will join a successful lineup of live-action adaptations that includes Beauty and the Beast (2017), Aladdin (2019), and the highly anticipated The Little Mermaid, opening in theaters May 26. “It’s still early,” Bailey said, “but the idea of working with these fantastic partners to tell such a meaningful story on a live-action canvas, particularly as we celebrate 100 years of storytelling at Disney, is thrilling.”

QUIZ: Prove You’re the Ultimate Ms. Marvel Fan

By Jocelyn Buhlman

Kamala Khan is one of the biggest Marvel fans we can think of—and we know a lot of fans!— but there’s one thing we don’t know: Who is the biggest Kamala Khan aficionado? If you’re a devotee of Marvel’s most famous fangirl, we challenge you to take this Ms. Marvel quiz, inspired by the series, starring Iman Vellani in the title role, that you can stream now on Disney+! Will your super trivia knowledge help you save the day? Take our quiz to find out:

Where does Kamala Khan live?

Correct! Wrong!

What is the name of Kamala’s YouTube channel?

Correct! Wrong!

What is the name of the Avengers convention she attends?

Correct! Wrong!

Where did the Clandestines originally find Kamala’s bangle?

Correct! Wrong!

What does DODC stand for?

Correct! Wrong!

How does Kamala Khan know about the battle at the end of Avengers: Endgame?

Correct! Wrong!

What is the name of Kamala’s guidance counselor, Gabe Wilson, Jr. a reference to?

Correct! Wrong!

Which episode title references the very first Ms. Marvel comics run?

Correct! Wrong!

What music plays when Kamala learns that she has a mutation?

Correct! Wrong!

What does Yusuf say that the name “Kamal” means?

Correct! Wrong!

When Kamala first develops her powers, she accidentally knocks the head off a statue of which Avenger?

Correct! Wrong!

Who originally owned the bangle that allowed Kamala to access her powers?

Correct! Wrong!

Prove You’re the Ultimate Ms. Marvel Fan
Either you clicked on this quiz thinking it was about Carol Danvers, or you were just hoping for an excuse to be told to binge watch all of Ms. Marvel. Either way—you should probably start up Disney+ now. We’ll wait. Once you finish, come back and take the quiz again, and we’re sure you’ll soar to new heights of knowledge!
It’s ok, you don’t need to know it all! That’s Kamala’s job, at least when it comes to Super Hero knowledge. If you aspire to be as big of a fan as her someday, keep brushing up on your facts. You’ve got the potential to be a trivia hero in no time.
We’re marveling at your knowledge of Ms. Marvel! You know your stuff, but there’s still room to justify one… more… rewatch of the series. Just make sure to finish creating your Captain Marvel cosplay while you’re at it.
Either you’re the ultimate Ms. Marvel super fan… or you’re Kamala Khan herself! Don’t worry, we’ll keep your identity a secret. Congrats on your impressive knowledge—we’re sure we’ll see you at the next AvengerCon!

QUIZ: Are You the Ultimate Disney Fan Fan?

We know D23 readers are truly the ultimate Disney fans, but how many of you are the ultimate Disney fan fan? That’s right, we want to test your knowledge of Disney Parks fans, and not the kind that attend D23 Expo—we’re talking mounted rotating blades that keep you cool during warmer days at the parks. Take our quiz and identify where you can find these fans at the domestic Disney Parks and see if you really are the ultimate Disney fan fan!

Where at Disney California Adventure can you find this fan?

A very large windmill type fan with red and white blades sits atop a wooden tower against a bright blue sky. The sun is shining and tree branches extend into the frame of the photo, obscuring the fan with sparse branches and leaves.
Correct! Wrong!

Where at EPCOT can you find this fan?

A black metal fan is mounted on a beige concrete wall. The fan is attached to a bronze wall mount with ornate details. Wooden beams can be seen extending across the ceiling of the room and a fire alarm sits behind the fan on the wall.
Correct! Wrong!

Where at Disneyland Park can you find this fan?

A ceiling fan with wooden blades, black metal details, and white glass lightbulb holders is hanging from a checker marked silver colored ceiling.
Correct! Wrong!

Where at Magic Kingdom Park can you find this fan?

A brown colored ceiling fan hangs from a wood beamed ceiling. Behind the fan is a large net hanging from the ceiling full of older looking cases and artifacts. Other ceiling mounted light fixtures can be seen farther down in the back of the photo.
Correct! Wrong!

Where at Disney California Adventure can you find this fan?

A wooden ceiling fan with blades that appear white-washed from sun exposure hangs from a ceiling that looks like it is made of corkboard with wooden beams. Tons of trinkets and artifacts sit on high shelves close to the ceiling all around the fan. Barely visible in the bottom right corner are Spider Bot toys from Avengers Campus in Disney California Adventure.
Correct! Wrong!

Where at Disney’s Hollywood Studios can you find this fan?

A very dimly lit ceiling fan hangs outside from a wooden slated patio cover. Stone columns can be seen below the fan, with an ornate sconce visible at the bottom of the photo.
Correct! Wrong!

Where at Disney’s Animal Kingdom can you find this fan?

A covered fan is mounted at the top of a tall wooden post in the middle of lush jungle plants. Trees and bushes surround the post and another fan can be seen right behind the one closest to the camera.
Correct! Wrong!

Where at Disney California Adventure can you find this fan?

A gold ceiling fan with dark wooden blades is mounted to a wooden slatted ceiling that is painted white. The wall behind the fan is also made of wooden slats that are painted in alternating white and cream colors.
Correct! Wrong!

QUIZ: Are You the Ultimate Disney Fan Fan?
You may not be able to beat the heat just yet, but don’t sweat it!
Keep your cool and you’ll be a fan-noisseur in no time.
Hey! You’re starting to get the hang of it!
You’re definitely on the way to becoming a real fan fan. Try again and maybe your next score will reach new heights.
FAN-tastic job!
You really blew us away with your knack for identifying Disney Parks fans!
WOW! You’re a fan-omenon!
You really know these air-moving masterpieces, and now that you’re the ultimate Disney fan fan, make sure you join D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Club today for free!

How did you do? Were you able to keep cool under the pressure of identifying these fans? No matter how you scored, we hope you are a fan of this quiz!

Disney D23 Rewind—Week of March 27

By Courtney Potter

In an image from Disney+’s Crater, Mckenna Grace as Addison (as well as several other cast members to her left and right) are wearing space suits and are standing on the lunar surface, staring up at something off camera and to the right.

Disney’s Crater to Debut Exclusively on Disney+ This May 

Ready for some lunar fun? The Disney+ Original Movie Crater will debut exclusively on the streamer on May 12.

Crater follows 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). But before leaving, to fulfill his dad’s last wish, he and his three best friends—Dylan (Billy Barratt), Borney (Orson Hong), and Marcus (Thomas Boyce)—and a new arrival from Earth, Addison (Mckenna Grace), hijack a rover for one final adventure on a journey to explore a mysterious crater.

Directed by Kyle Patrick Alvarez, the coming-of-age sci-fi film was written by John Griffin and produced by Shawn Levy, Dan Levine, and Dan Cohen.

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

This weekend marks the beginning of April—so don’t joke around with your viewing from around the worlds of Disney! Season 2 The Ghost and Molly McGee kicks off on Disney Channel and Disney XD; Hollywood Week (and all its requisite drama) starts on ABC’s American Idol, followed by an all-new episode of The Company You Keep; and so much more…

Freeform’s grown-ish to End with Season 6

All good things must come to an end: Earlier this week, Freeform announced that its hit comedy series grown-ish will end with its upcoming sixth season.

Season 6, which will mark the series’ milestone 100th episode, will air in two parts; the first will premiere this summer, while the second airs in 2024. Yara Shahidi, who stars as Zoey Johnson, shared the news in a video posted to Freeform’s social channels, seen above.

The series currently follows Andre Johnson Jr., aka Junior (Marcus Scribner), as he transitions from Zoey’s little brother to big man on campus.

“We’ve spent nearly a decade telling our stories through the -ish series, and to say it has been an amazing journey would be an understatement,” creator and executive producer Kenya Barris recently said. “To be able to watch Yara, Marcus, and our entire grown-ish family grow up in front of—and in many ways alongside—us over these past several years has been both a joy and an honor. From the stories we’ve told to the talent we’ve fostered and, most importantly, the memories made, I could not be more proud of everything we’ve accomplished and the -ish family I’ve been a part of.”

Also announced were the upcoming season’s guest stars—which include Lil Yachty, Anderson .Paak, and Free Nationals.

ICYMI: 14 Ultimate Fans from Around the Worlds of Disney

With D23 Member Appreciation Month ending soon, it’s a good time to take in some fellow fans from around the worlds of Disney. Check out our rundown of some favorite “ultimate fans”—from Coco’s Miguel (and his idol, Ernesto de la Cruz) to Lilo & Stitch’s Lilo and her love of all things Elvis, and so many in between!

Disney and Pixar Reveal New Elemental Trailer and Announce New Short

Disney and Pixar have premiered a sizzling new trailer for Elemental, opening in theaters Friday, June 16!

Elemental, directed by Peter Sohn, transports moviegoers to an extraordinary place called Element City, where a host of elements live and work. The trailer showcases each element—air, earth, water, and fire—and what sets them apart… according to Ember, a quick-witted and fiery woman who has always stayed close to home in Firetown. In the film, she finally ventures out of her comfort zone to explore this spectacular world born from the imaginations of Pixar’s filmmakers and specifically crafted for the big-screen experience. Element City is inspired by big cities around the globe and embraces theorized contributions from each elemental community—from giant pine-tree-like buildings and waterfall skyscrapers to a tornado-shaped arena called Cyclone Stadium.

Joining the previously announced voice cast—including Leah Lewis and Mamoudou Athie as Ember and Wade, respectively—are Ronnie del Carmen as Ember’s soon-to-be retired dad, Bernie; Shila Ommi as Ember’s love-seeking mom, Cinder; Wendi McLendon-Covey as Wade’s stormy and Air-Ball-loving boss, Gale; Catherine O’Hara as Wade’s welcoming mom, Brook; Mason Wertheimer as Ember’s admiring earth neighbor, Clod; and Joe Pera as an overgrown city bureaucrat, Fern.

They also announced that a brand-new animated short, Carl’s Date, will run ahead of the film—resuming Pixar Animation Studios’ moviegoing tradition of pairing their features with short films.

The poster for Disney and Pixar’s new animated short Carl’s Date. Carl (on left) is holding a bouquet of purple flowers while standing on the front porch of his home with his dog Dug (on right); he’s wearing his signature black glasses, a white button-up shirt, a dark bow tie, suspenders, and brown pants. Dug is holding a flower in his mouth. The number “333” is seen on the doorway leading into the house. Above them, the phrase “New Adventure, Same Wingman” is seen; the short’s title is seen below, with the date of the short’s release (June 16).

The new short catches up with Carl Fredricksen (voiced by the late, great Ed Asner) and his lovable talking dog Dug (voiced by Bob Peterson), who were introduced in Pixar’s Oscar®-winning feature Up. Written and directed by Oscar nominee and Emmy® Award winner Peterson and produced by Kim Collins, this all-new short finds Carl reluctantly agreeing to go on a date with a lady friend—but admittedly with no idea how dating works these days. Ever the helpful friend, Dug steps in to calm Carl’s pre-date jitters and offer some tried-and-true tips for making friends… if you’re a dog.

In concept art for the new Disney Cruise Line ship based out of Singapore, the port of Singapore (with several tall buildings, and a Ferris wheel to the right) is seen behind a large ship sailing from left to right.

New Disney Cruise Line Ship Will Sail from Singapore in 2025

Big news for cruise fans around the globe: Disney Cruise Line and Singapore Tourism Board have announced magical cruise vacations to Southeast Asia for the first time! The info was recently revealed by Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Chairman Josh D’Amaro and Singapore’s Minister for Transport and Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations, S. Iswaran.

Under a new Memorandum of Understanding, Disney Cruise Line and Singapore Tourism Board agreed to collaborate to homeport a brand-new Disney cruise ship exclusively in Singapore for at least five years beginning in 2025.

The new ship will feature innovative Disney experiences along with all the dazzling entertainment, world-class dining, and legendary guest service that set Disney Cruise Line apart. Guests young and young at heart will find dedicated spaces and activities designed just for them, and families will create unforgettable memories with beloved characters including Captain Mickey Mouse and Captain Minnie Mouse, Disney Princesses, Marvel Super Heroes, and more.

Disney Cruise Line estimates the passenger capacity of the 208,000-gross-ton ship to be approximately 6,000, with around 2,300 crew members—and it’s expected to be among the first in the cruise industry to be fueled by green methanol, one of the lowest emission fuels available. Construction is projected to be completed at the MV Werften shipyard in Wismar, Germany, under the management of Meyer Werft, the Papenburg-based company that built the Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, and the Titan-class Disney Wish (and is constructing two additional Titan-class ships).More details about the maiden voyage, itineraries, and onboard experiences will be announced at a later date.

ABC News Presents New Diane Sawyer Interview with Jeremy Renner

This week, the good folks at ABC News announced that anchor and Disney Legend Diane Sawyer will sit down with actor Jeremy Renner in an exclusive interview—the first since his life-threatening accident on New Year’s Day.

Renner, who was run over by his seven-ton snowplow in an attempt to save his nephew’s life, was critically injured―breaking more than 30 bones and puncturing a lung and his liver. He opens up to Sawyer about the harrowing details of his accident; the critical hours that followed; and his time in the hospital. He also provides a behind-the-scenes look at his ongoing recovery.

The special also features interviews with Renner’s family members, including the nephew he was trying to protect, and the first responders who saved his life.

Jeremy Renner: The Diane Sawyer Interview – A Story of Terror, Survival and Triumph airs Thursday, April 6, at 10:01 p.m. ET/PT on ABC and the next day on Hulu.

Lucasfilm Debuts New Shorts Ahead of Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures Premiere

Ahead of the series’ debut on May the Fourth—Star Wars Day—Lucasfilm recently shared a sneak peek at the upcoming series Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures with the release of several animated shorts that introduce the Jedi younglings and their friends on planet Tenoo. Check out Meet the Young Jedi, above! (The other two shorts, Lys’ Creature Caper and Kai’s Daring Droid Rescue, can be found here and here, respectively.)

Set during The High Republic era, the animated series—the first Star Wars series created for preschoolers—follows Jedi younglings as they study the ways of the Force, explore the galaxy, help citizens and creatures in need, and learn the valuable skills needed to become Jedi along the way.

Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures stars Jamaal Avery, Jr. as Kai Brightstar, Juliet Donenfeld as Lys Solay, Dee Bradley Baker as Nubs, Emma Berman as Nash Durango, Jonathan Lipow as RJ-83, and Piotr Michael as Master Yoda.

Three additional shorts will debut on YouTube over the coming weeks, with all six shorts available to stream on Disney+ on Wednesday, April 26, ahead of the series debut on Thursday, May 4, Star Wars Day, on Disney+ and Disney Junior.

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

By Andie Hagemann

From ghostly encounters to super-charged astronauts, here’s everything you need to watch this weekend. The Season 2 premiere of The Ghost and Molly McGee airs Saturday on Disney Channel and Disney XD, and the beloved soccer flick Bend It Like Beckham dribbles its way onto Hulu that same day. Hollywood Week kicks off on American Idol, followed by an all-new episode of The Company You Keep, both airing Sunday night on ABC—plus, that same night, watch a special presentation of Fantastic Four on FX.

In a scene from an episode of The Ghost and Molly McGee, Molly, an animated young girl, plays guitar and looks at Scratch, a ghost, while he plays a large, blue drum set.

The Ghost and Molly McGee—Saturday, April 1, at 8 a.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel and Disney XD
In the season premiere, the McGees welcome a new family to the neighborhood, the Chens. However, they soon make the shocking discovery that the Chens—Ollie (voiced by Alan Lee), June (voiced by Sue Ann Pien), Esther (voiced by Stephanie Sheh), and Ruben (voiced by Leonard Wu)—are ghost hunters. Meanwhile, a new chairman is declared in the Ghost World, which makes life and the afterlife even more complicated for Molly (voiced by Ashly Burch) and Scratch (voiced by Dana Snyder). The series voice cast includes Jordan Klepper as Pete McGee, Molly’s anxiously idealistic father; Michaela Dietz as Darryl, Molly’s mischievously entrepreneurial brother; and Sumalee Montano as Sharon McGee and Grandma Nin, Molly’s creatively pragmatic mom and adoring grandmother.

In a scene from Bend It Like Beckham, actor Parminder Nagra is surrounded by her teammates who hold her dress in a hot pink and gold sari.

Bend It Like Beckham—Saturday, April 1, on Hulu
Jess Bhamra (Parminder Nagra), the daughter of strict parents (Anupam Kher and Shaheen Khan), is not permitted to play organized soccer, even though she is 18 years old. When Jess is playing for fun one day, her impressive skills are noticed by Jules Paxton (Keira Knightley), who later convinces her to play for her semi-professional soccer team. Jess then uses elaborate excuses to hide her new endeavor from her family while also dealing with her romantic feelings for her coach, Joe (Jonathan Rhys Meyers).

In a scene from an episode of American Idol, judge Lionel Richie stands next to contestant Colt Glover.

American Idol—Sunday, April 2, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC
As the Hollywood Week festivities commence, fan-favorite Idol alumni return as contestant mentors. With make-or-break performances on the horizon, the alums advise the contestants on how to command the stage, while also providing songwriting tips. Who will impress superstar judges Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie? Part 2 of the highly anticipated Hollywood Week airs Monday, April 3, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC. New episodes are available to stream the next day on Hulu.

In a scene from an episode of The Company You Keep, actors Catherine Haena Kim and Milo Ventimiglia talk outside of a stark, stone building.

The Company You Keep—Sunday, April 2, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on ABC
In the all-new episode—intended only for mature audiences—the Nicolettis set their sights on stealing an elusive painting. Birdie (Sarah Wayne Callies) enlists the help of an old flame to carry out the mission. Meanwhile, Emma (Catherine Haena Kim) grapples with Charlie’s (Milo Ventimiglia) shocking admission and the emerging conflicts of interest at work at the CIA. The series also stars James Saito, Tim Chiou, Polly Draper, Freda Foh Shen, William Fichtner, and Courtney Taylor, to name a few. New episodes are available to stream the next day on Hulu.

In a scene from Fantastic Four (2005), actor Jessica Alba separates actors Chris Evans and Michael Chiklis from fighting in front of a crowd as actor Ioan Gruffudd stands behind Alba.

Fantastic Four (2005)—Sunday, April 2, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on FX
The lives of four astronauts—Reed Richards (Ioan Gruffudd), Ben Grimm (Michael Chiklis), Sue Storm (Jessica Alba), and Johnny Storm (Chris Evans)—are changed forever when they are struck by a cloud of cosmic radiation that bestows superpowers upon them. Reed can now stretch his body like elastic and Ben becomes the “Thing,” a man made of rock, while Sue and Johnny become the Invisible Woman and the Human Torch, respectively. But there is just one problem... the sponsor of the mission, Dr. Victor Von Doom (Julian McMahon), has also been affected and instantly becomes a dangerous force who needs to be stopped before it’s too late. The action-packed film is also available to stream on Disney+.

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 High School Musical knowledge to the test to see if you are the ultimate Disney fan.

What color suit did Troy Bolton wear to prom in High School Musical 3: Senior Year?

Correct! Wrong!

Trick Question... Troy Bolton did not attend East High’s senior prom; he drove through the night to surprise Gabriella during her college program.

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!

How The Ghost and Molly McGee Brought Season 2 to Life

By Jessica Benda

When a ghost and a girl strike up a friendship, unpredictable antics are sure to follow. That’s certainly the case with The Ghost and Molly McGee, which returns for a spooky Season 2 on Saturday, April 1 at 8 a.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel and Disney XD, and next day on Disney+. New episodes then debut each Saturday.

Tween optimist Molly lives to make the world brighter, while grumpy ghost Scratch attempts to fulfill his job to spread misery. When one of Scratch’s curses backfires, he finds himself forever bound to Molly, creating an unlikely bond that leads to humorous misadventures.

The zaniness will continue in Season 2, said Bill Motz and Bob Roth, creators and executive producers. The Emmy® Award-winning writing and producing duo shared their creative process, which all begins with blank notecards.

“We’ve got 40 11-minute stories to tell,” Motz explained. “We put note cards on a wall and sit with the team and go, ‘We’ve got to fill 40 of these. What do we want to do?’ And everybody starts throwing out ideas, we write them down and pin them up until that board is almost filled.”

The team sifts through ideas until they settle on their final 40 stories, many of which are inspired by true events. Season 2 abounds with relatable moments of growing up, such as struggling to follow a “mature makeup tutorial” or going to your first school dance.

“Everybody brought their collective lives to the show, especially our writers, but also our board artists, our directors, even our production team would poke their heads in. Those moments just bubble to the surface and become the cream of the show,” Motz said. “We’re finding those moments that everybody goes, ‘Yes, I remember doing that.’”

Less common to tween life is the anxiety that comes when a ghost-hunting family moves in across the street. Season 2 kicks off with the arrival of the Chens, who are as quirky as the McGees themselves.

Meanwhile, a new Chairman is declared in the Ghost World, making life (and afterlife) even more complicated for Molly and Scratch. One element that the creators wanted to explore was Scratch’s backstory, including his identity before his ghostly form.

With such a deeply engaged creative team, it should be no surprise that there are a few inside jokes to look out for. For example, Motz and Roth revealed that audiences might notice that all the characters read the same book: Bill and Bob’s Okay Adventure. It was something that Sarah Keeley, the prop designer, added to make the crew laugh.

Then there are the “ghost-sonas.” Several ghosts are caricatures of the show’s creative team and crew, including Motz and Roth—“maybe two of the most unflattering caricatures,” Roth said with a laugh.

“The crew really let us have it with those,” Motz added. “I’m excited. My character finally spoke, and John DiMaggio did his voice. I couldn’t be more delighted that John DiMaggio voiced me in a cartoon.”

The character designs themselves reflect “a type of classic Disney.” Scratch is brought to life in a way reminiscent of the Disney Parks attraction Haunted Mansion, Roth pointed out.

“This is a classic Disney show. It has the human heart and hope that I always loved,” Roth said. “I think the best of Disney goes through emotional journeys. It’s not just cotton candy that you’re eating all day long; the show has substance, too. I think that’s what Disney does.”

14 Ultimate Fans from the Worlds of Disney

By Jessica Benda

Stars—they’re just like us! Especially if the “stars” are our favorite Disney characters, and the “like us” is our fierce love of Disney.

The worlds of Disney are full of fans devoted to their own passions—whether it be musicians, movies, or a certain snowy holiday. Some Disney characters show off a huge collection of their idol’s merchandise, while others may take their fandom to other extremes. To celebrate D23: The Official Disney Fan Club’s 14th anniversary, we’ve rounded up 14 of the ultimate fans from some of our favorite Disney films and series.

In the animated film Turning Red, Mei and her friends cry tears of joy at 4*Town’s concert. The four of them stand in the crowd and sport 4*Town face paint and shirts.

Turning Red’s Mei: 4*Town
Magazine covers, fan art, a CD of the ’99 Australian Tour with the Girl I Love Your Jeans remix—Mei might be the most accurate depiction of tween fandom yet. In Disney and Pixar’s Turning Red, Mei and her friends are deep in a one-sided relationship with boyband 4*Town… so obviously, they have to attend their upcoming concert at the SkyDome!

Ms. Marvel’s Kamala Khan: Marvel
Kamala Khan (a.k.a. SlothBaby to her fan fiction readers) is the ultimate Marvel fan, in her Disney+ series Ms. Marvel. With a fierce adoration of Captain Marvel and a mental encyclopedia of Avenger knowledge, she’s thrust into the life she writes about when she activates her own powers. Kamala ultimately takes on her own Super Hero identity as Ms. Marvel—and surely comes full circle as the new source of other teens’ fan fiction.

The Incredibles’ Syndrome: Mr. Incredible
Metroville hath no fury like a Syndrome scorned… Once the self-proclaimed Incrediboy—and the state-proclaimed Buddy Pine—Syndrome was Mr. Incredible’s No. 1 fan in Disney and Pixar’s The Incredibles. As an active member of the fan club, he often seeks out autographs and pictures, and eventually endeavors to make himself Mr. Incredible’s sidekick. But after he’s brushed aside, he makes it his personal mission to extinguish all superheroes. Syndrome takes “ultimate fan” to new (and kinda scary) heights!

Alt text: In the animated film Lilo and Stitch, the blue alien Stitch stands on the beach in an Elvis Presley costume. He wears a black wig, sparkling white pantsuit, and strums a guitar.

Lilo & Stitch’s Lilo: Elvis Presley
The only thing Lilo loves more than Stitch? Elvis Presley. Okay, maybe not quite that much, but no one can deny that Elvis is Lilo’s idol. In Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Lilo & Stitch, she spends a fair amount of time lying on the hardwood while cranking “Heartbreak Hotel.” And when Stitch needs shaping up into a “model citizen,” Lilo knows the ultimate model citizen: Elvis (though the 1950s might’ve disagreed). She takes it on herself to teach Stitch all “the King’s” skills: dancing, guitar, and romance.

Zenon: Girl of the 21st Century’s Zenon: Proto Zoa
In 2049, Microbe is one of the biggest groups in rock—and Zenon is one of their biggest fans. Much of the momentum in the Disney Channel Original Movie Zenon: Girl of the 21st Century is driven by Zenon’s love of  the group and its lead singer, Proto Zoa. Amid stopping mass destruction, she even wins a “Dance with Proto Zoa” contest, and travels with him to the first live concert in space!

Teen Beach Movie’s Brady: Wet Side Story
In the Disney Channel Original Movie Teen Beach Movie, teen surfer Brady loves the fictious 1960s movie musical Wet Side Story, a Disney Channel rendition of Jerome Robbins’ West Side Story. Brady’s ultimate fan dreams come true when he and his girlfriend, McKenzie, are swept into the movie by a storm. Radical!

In the stop-motion animated film Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas, the towering Jack Skellington is wearing a Santa Claus costume. He looms over a child in a Christmas-decorated home, offering him a present from his sack.

Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas’ Jack Skellington: Christmas
Few fans take their obsessions as far as Jack Skellington, and that’s probably for the best. After Jack discovers Christmas, he commits identity theft, kidnapping, and surely infringes on Christmas Land copyright… but surely, it’s just because it loves it so much! He spends the bulk of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas attempting to transform Halloween Town into a winter wonderland and himself into “Sandy Claws.” The expression “crash and burn” becomes literal—in a good way—as, thankfully, he eventually reignites his passion for Halloween and his role as the Pumpkin King.

The Little Mermaid’s Ariel: The Human World
As shown by her cavern of collectables, Ariel is a huge fan of the human world. She collects thingamabobs and whatzits to her heart’s contents, and she’s not afraid to break the rules by breaching the ocean’s surface. Her passion for the above world pays off when she becomes a human herself! It’s a little dicey at first, but—spoiler alert—there’s a happy ending after all.

Coco’s Miguel: Ernesto de la Cruz
As an aspiring musician, Miguel idolizes the late singer and (supposed) songwriter Ernesto de la Cruz—so much so that he built a secret tribute to him in his family’s attic. In Disney and Pixar’s Coco, Miguel breaks into Ernesto’s tomb to borrow his guitar, and inadvertently turns himself into one of the dead. Luckily for him, being dead has its perks—as he can now track down his deceased idol. Worth dying for? TBD.

In Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, Peter Quill pilots a ship. He smiles as he steers, while Gamora and Drax are blurry in the background.

Guardians of the Galaxy’s Peter Quill: Kevin Bacon
Kevin Bacon saved a small town through the power of dance in Footloose, so it’s understandable why he’s Peter Quill’s hero! Though Peter mentions his love of the ’80s megastar a few times in the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise, Bacon appears in all his Los Angeles glory in Disney+’s The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special. Mantis and Drax abruptly kidnap Bacon to present him to Peter as a Christmas present. But unlike Jack Skellington, Peter knows better than to hold his hero hostage…

Sonny with a Chance’s Sonny Munroe: Chad Dylan Cooper
In Disney Channel’s Sonny with a Chance, small-town Sonny Munroe is starstruck when she meets Chad Dylan Cooper, the star of hit tween series MacKenzie Falls. As she starts as a new cast member of a rival TV show, she’s only dazzled for an episode before she realizes the enormity of his ego. As in any fan’s ultimate dream, Chad goes from Sonny’s celebrity crush, to her nemesis, to her boyfriend, and so on and so on.

A Goofy Movie’s Max Goof: Powerline
Max Goof first proves his love of Powerline in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ A Goofy Movie by hijacking a school assembly to perform as the pop star. He spends the rest of the film on a wayward road trip with his father, Goofy, ultimately trying to steer the course toward Los Angeles. There, he not only gets to attend Powerline’s concert, he performs in it!

In the animated film Moana, Maui the demigod holds a boat in one hand and makes a finger gun symbol with his free hand. He winks.

Moana’s Maui: Maui
The hair! The bod! In Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Moana, the demigod Maui makes it clear that he knows his own worth—perhaps a bit too much. Then again, he harnessed the breeze, pulled islands from the ocean, and made a coconut tree out of a dead eel. Can you blame him?

Toy Story 2’s Al: Woody’s Roundup
Original hand-painted face; natural-dyed blanket-stitched vest; hand-stitched polyvinyl hat! It’s love at first sight for toy store owner Al when he finds Woody at Andy’s family garage sale. When he can’t buy Woody, he lets his inner crazed-fan loose and steals him… it’s the final piece Al needs for his prized collection based on the classic TV show Woody’s Roundup. But that said, Al might be a bigger fan of the profit than the collection.