5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Week

By Andie Hagemann

It’s the final week of 2022, and what better way to celebrate than with these spectacular titles! ABC News’ special The Year: 2022 is now available to stream on Hulu. Don’t miss the debut of Encanto at the Hollywood Bowl and a new episode of National Treasure: Edge of History coming to Disney+ on Wednesday. Last but not least, watch The Parent Test, airing Thursday on ABC, followed by the season finale of Fleishman Is in Trouble premiering that same night on Hulu.

In a scene from the ABC News special The Year: 2022, host and Disney Legend Robin Roberts stands with her arms folded in front of her and in front of a large television screen with the show’s title. Roberts wears a black blazer jacket with pink, red, and purple fabric crisscrossing and cascading down her sides, and a pair of purple pants.

The Year: 2022—Available to Stream on Hulu
For the 12th consecutive year, ABC News presents its jam-packed two-hour year-end special. Anchored by Disney Legend Robin Roberts, the special features many of the network’s top news anchors including David Muir, Michael Strahan, George Stephanopoulos, Juju Chang, Linsey Davis, Janai Norman, and Ginger Zee. Relive the year’s top stories, buzzworthy moments in entertainment, and more.

In a scene from Encanto at the Hollywood Bowl, actor Diane Guerrero portrays Isabella and dances on stage surrounded by platforms of colorful flowers. Guerrero wears a bright purple flowy dress and a pair of iridescent, purple platform heels.

Encanto at the Hollywood Bowl—Wednesday, December 28, on Disney+
Watch the historic Hollywood Bowl transform into Casa Madrigal for an unprecedented concert spectacular! The live-to-film concert experience reunites the original voice cast of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Academy Award®-winning Encanto—Stephanie Beatriz (Mirabel), Adassa (Dolores), Carolina Gaitán (Pepa), Jessica Darrow (Luisa), Diane Guerrero (Isabela), Mauro Castillo (Félix), Angie Cepeda (Julieta), and Olga Merediz (Abuela Alma)—and features special guests, including legendary Colombian superstars Carlos Vives and Andrés Cepeda. The extravaganza also includes an 80-person orchestra, 50 dancers, and dazzling special effects celebrating the world, characters, and songs of the hit film.

In a scene from Disney+ Original series National Treasure: Edge of History, actor Lisette Olivera portrays Jess and sits cross-legged on the floor. Olivera is surrounded by a circle of books, newspapers, and drawings. Olivera wears a light blue long-sleeved sweater and a pair of light blue denim pants.

National Treasure: Edge of History—Wednesday, December 28, on Disney+
For the first time ever, Jess (Lisette Olivera) finds herself in a puzzle-solving slump when she can’t crack the clue found in Episode 3. Her personal life isn’t any less confusing as she tries to figure out if she and Liam (Jake Austin Walker) have romantic feelings for each other. Elsewhere, at the wake for Liam’s grandpa, Jess and her friends meet famous treasure hunter Riley Poole (Justin Bartha) and ask for his help. However, Jess’s skills are put to the test when she and Riley get caught in a deadly trap.

In a scene from ABC series The Parent Test, hosts Ali Wentworth and Dr. Adolph Brown sit side-by-side on a teal couch. Wentworth wears a pair of white pants and a pink blouse with a floral print. Dr. Brown wears a dark blue suit and a light blue button-down shirt. Behind them is a large screen with the series’ title against a soft gray background.

The Parent Test—Thursday, December 29, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on ABC
Hosted by Ali Wentworth and parenting expert Dr. Adolph Brown, this all-new series puts 12 families under the microscope in the ultimate parenting stress test. In the premiere episode, the families take on the High Dive Challenge and the Yes Day Challenge. While these families may have conflicting opinions about how to raise their children, they all share the common goal of raising happy, healthy kids.

In a scene from FX series Fleishman Is in Trouble, actor Jesse Eisenberg portrays Toby and sits at the end of a dinner table. Eisenberg wears a black button-down shirt and a black blazer jacket. On the table in front of him are wine and champagne glasses, plates, and a piece of chocolate cake.

Fleishman Is in Trouble—Thursday, December 29, on Hulu
The season finale is here, and Seth (Adam Brody) is throwing a party. The series—created for television by Taffy Brodesser-Akner, who adapts her acclaimed novel—follows recently divorced 41-year-old Toby Fleishman (Jesse Eisenberg) as he dives into the daunting new world of app-based dating. However, just as he embarks on this new journey, his ex-wife, Rachel (Claire Danes), disappears, leaving him with his children and no hint of where she is or her plans to return. As he balances parenting, the return of old friends Libby (Lizzy Caplan) and Seth, a potential job promotion, and dating, he realizes that he’ll never be able to figure out what happened to Rachel until he can face what happened to their marriage. This series is intended only for mature audiences.

Behind the Mask with James Ham and Brian Horton: The Making of Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales

By Reena Bassil

With great power comes great responsibility—whether that includes shooting webs, scaling walls to protect the city, providing amazingly quick quips, or even in creating incredible games like Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales. The character of Miles Morales was initially made popular via comics and animation, but this fan-favorite action-adventure game welcomed an original, modern take on the culturally diverse Super Hero into fans’ homes because of the amazing team at Insomniac Games and PlayStation in collaboration with Marvel Games. We had the pleasure of sitting down with Insomniac Games’ lead animator James Ham and creative director Brian Horton to learn more about what went into making this game; its dedication to showcasing diversity and cultural inclusivity; and some of the heartwarming cinematic scenes such as the game’s Afro-Latino inspired Christmas dinner. (And, if you love food, feel free to check out some of the recipes inspired by Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales and Afro-Latino culture on Marvel.com here!)

Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales quickly became a fan-favorite after launching in November 2020, not just for the game’s incredible storytelling, animation, and swinging mechanics, but also for its relatability. As the lead animator, a big part of Ham’s role is bringing characters to life through animation, while Horton (as creative director) works with his team at Insomniac Games to set an initial vision and to steer projects to quality and cohesiveness. “My goal is [to find] the core of a character,” Ham explains, “and create an animation that a player will enjoy and feel what the character is feeling.”

“The feeling of having to fill big shoes really spoke to me,” Ham continues, speaking of Miles Morales; “I see Miles as an inspirational comic book figure, and we wanted to make sure we did him justice in our game.”

With the introduction of Miles in Marvel’s Spider-Man and the continuation of his story in Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales, fans were offered a glimpse into an authentic representation of diversity through the lens of an Afro-Latino teen growing up in Marvel’s New York. One such instance was in a touching holiday dinner cinematic—where the titular character sat down with his Puerto Rican mother and diverse group of friends to enjoy a traditional holiday meal. The food was meticulously researched to ensure every dish was specific to the Puerto Rican roots of Miles’ mother, Rio. Diverse representation in games is key to the players’ experience when games are made for such a wide range of audiences, as Ham explains: “Seeing parts of yourself, things that make up who you are in a character you love creates a bond and leaning into that aspect really helps bring in the authenticity of a character like Miles.”

In addition to bringing Miles’ Spider-Man to fans through the game experience offered in Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales, the Insomniac team also manages to capture an authentic NYC experience that offered fans a look at inclusivity beyond the main character and through the lens of a living and breathing city itself. In order to achieve this, Horton told Marvel.com that the team conducted extensive interviews with residents in East Harlem to capture the finest details: “The decorations in the house and street, the murals, the music, and the characterization and behaviors of the people were all scrutinized and refined throughout production.”

When asked about the process, Ham adds, “We had consultants on the project like Evan Narcisse that brought their personal experiences living in New York to our story; Evan was critical to ensure we had details like the corner bodega, barbershop, and local restaurants.”

Insomniac Games’ mission is to make a lasting and positive impact on players’ lives... and for employees like Ham and Horton, inclusion means giving everyone a voice and not being afraid to hear and see different perspectives. “Inclusivity is in the bedrock of what it means to be an Insomniac,” Horton shares. “We continue to work hard to make our culture more diverse, equitable, and inclusive every day.”

In a still from Marvel's Spider-Man: Miles Morales, Miles is seen with his mask off, looking off camera to the right. It’s night and there is a light snowfall; several tall buildings and lights are seen behind him.

Ham began his career in video games at Naughty Dog as an animator for Uncharted 4. After working on Infinity Ward and contributing to the Call of Duty franchise, he transitioned to Insomniac Games where he felt fortunate to work on both Marvel’s Spider-Man and Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales.

"Be creative, find ways to push yourself and think outside of the box."

James Ham

Horton's first job was as an artist at Disney Interactive in 1994. He worked at numerous studios before he joined Crystal Dynamics as an art director for Tomb Raider, and then game director of Rise of the Tomb Raider. Five years ago, he joined Insomniac Games as a creative director and worked on Marvel’s Spider-Man and Marvel’s Spider-Man: Miles Morales.

Insomniac Games - Brian Horton

"Play as many games as you can and learn what makes them fun. Once you understand that games are crafted to provide a player experience, you can start to design your own games."

Brian Horton

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

By Andie Hagemann

In between holiday festivities, curl up on the couch for these spectacular titles coming to your TV (and assorted streaming devices) this weekend. On Saturday, watch a marathon of holiday-themed episodes of The Simpsons, Bob’s Burgers, and Family Guy, airing on FXX, followed by a presentation of Disney’s A Christmas Carol on Freeform, and the Tracking Santa livestream on Hulu. The Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade debuts Sunday morning on ABC, and later that same day Disney Channel will broadcast the first two episodes of The Santa Clauses.

In a scene from a holiday-themed episode of The Simpsons, the animated family—Maggie, Santa’s Little Helper, Grandpa, Lisa, Homer, Marge, and Bart—stand around a large brown piano and sing. Behind the piano stands a large green Christmas tree with a gold star on top and decorated with round, red ornaments, and a strand of gold lights. Homer is dressed as Santa Claus in a red suit with white fur and black boots. Bart wears the red Santa Claus hat with white fur atop his head.

FXX’s Seasons Greetings Animated Marathon—Saturday, December 24, from 11 a.m.-12 a.m. ET/PT on FXX
This weekend FXX wants you to celebrate the holidays with your family. No, not that one—your animated family! Beginning at 11 a.m. ET/PT on Christmas Eve, tune in to the network for a day jam-packed with hijinks with the Simpsons, Belchers, and Griffins! Don’t miss this marathon featuring hilarious holiday-themed episodes of The Simpsons, Bob’s Burgers, Family Guy, and more.

In a scene from Disney’s A Christmas Carol, actor Gary Oldman portrays Jacob Marley and appears in front of actor Jim Carrey as Ebenezer Scrooge—both computer-animated. Oldman holds large chains in his hands and has a pair of thin-framed glasses placed atop his head. Carrey wears a tan nightcap and matching tan pajamas.

Disney’s A Christmas Carol—Saturday, December 24, at 12 p.m. ET/PT on Freeform
Directed by Robert Zemeckis, this computer-animated adaptation of Charles Dickens’ beloved holiday classic features Jim Carrey in the role of the Ebenezer Scrooge, as well as the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future. While London anxiously prepares for Christmas, Scrooge refuses to take part in the festivities. But the miser is visited by three ghosts who attempt to teach him the true meaning of the holiday before it’s too late. The film also stars Gary Oldman as Bob Cratchit, Marley, and Tiny Tim, Colin Firth as Fred, Robin Wright as Fan, and Lesley Manville as Mrs. Cratchit as well as Cary Elwes in multiple roles.

The key art for the holiday special Tracking Santa from Hulu and ABC’s Owned Television Stations is a red background with white logos and text. Small snow flurries cascade down the graphic.

Tracking Santa – Livestream—Saturday, December 24, on Hulu
It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s… SANTA CLAUS. In this live broadcast, ABC’s Owned Television Stations will track Santa sightings across America. Starting at WABC in New York, the event will jump from station to station following Santa, with anchors in the studio tossing to reporters in the field, meteorologists tracking atmospheric disturbances that can only be Santa himself, celebrity shout outs and holiday greetings, live chats with Santa, and much more!

In a scene from Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade, hosts Julianne Hough and Derek Hough stand arm-in-arm with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in front of Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort. Julianne wears a red, strapless, hi-low gown and a large silver necklace. Derek wears a silver, satin suit jacket, a white button-down shirt, and a pair of black pants. Mickey Mouse wears a red Santa Claus hat with green trim and a single white snowflake, a green sweater with white snowflakes across the chest, and a pair of red pants. Minnie Mouse wears a white beret, a green sweater with white snowflakes across the chest, and a red skirt with white snowflakes around the trim.

Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade—Sunday, December 25, at 10 a.m.-12 p.m. ET/7 a.m.-9 a.m. PT on ABC
The beloved holiday tradition returns to Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort with heartwarming stories, showstopping performances, and of course, the iconic Christmas Day parade! Derek Hough and Julianne Hough will host the festivities and perform “Officially Christmas.” The star-studded special also features performances by Black Eyed Peas (“Carol of the Bells”), Chloe Flower (“A Liberace Christmas”), David Foster and Katharine McPhee (“Blue Christmas,” “Grown Up Christmas List”), Maren Morris (“When You Wish Upon a Star”), and Meghan Trainor (“My Kind of Present”), to name a few. The parade will be available to stream the next day on Hulu and Disney+.

In a scene from Disney+ series The Santa Clauses, actor and Disney Legend Tim Allen portrays Scott Calvin/Santa Claus with a fluffy white beard and white hair. Allen lounges across a white sofa adorned with red pillows. Allen wears a white, long-sleeved shirt with “25” printed across the chest in red ink, a pair of red corduroy pants, and a pair of black boots. Behind the sofa is a bar with a blender sitting on top of the counter.

The Santa Clauses—Sunday, December 25, at 7 p.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel
After being Santa Claus for nearly 30 years, Scott Calvin (Disney Legend Tim Allen) is as jolly as ever. But as Christmas declines in popularity, so does his magic. Scott struggles to keep up with his demanding job, as well as spending quality time with his family. Upon discovering there’s a loophole to retire from his role, Scott considers stepping down as Santa Claus and finding a worthy successor so that he can become a better father and husband. The series also stars Elizabeth Mitchell as Carol/Mrs. Claus, Kal Penn as Simon Choksi, Elizabeth Allen-Dick as Sandra, Austin Kane as Cal, Rupali Redd as Grace Choksi, Devin Bright as Noel, and Matilda Lawler as Betty. The first two episodes of the Disney+ Original series will debut on the network on Christmas Day. All episodes are available to stream on Disney+.

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Week

By Andie Hagemann

From strange lands to hilarious holiday hijinks, this week has something for every member of the family to enjoy. Watch the holiday classic Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town when it airs Tuesday night on ABC. On Wednesday, stream Full-Court Miracle, followed by a brand-new episode of Willow, both available on Disney+. Don’t miss Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas, airing Thursday on Freeform. Last but not least, Strange World launches Friday on Disney+.

In a scene from Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town, a stop-motion red-haired male character wears a Santa Claus suit and holds a large canvas sack over his shoulder. He faces a penguin that wears a black and yellow scarf around its neck. Both are surrounded by snow and icicle covered trees.

Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town—Tuesday, December 20, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC
In this beloved stop-motion Christmas special, a mailman named Special Delivery “S.D.” Kluger answers some of the biggest questions regarding the jolly man in the red suit: Santa Claus. In doing so, he tells us about Kris, a baby raised by a family of elves. As an adult, Kris aspires to deliver toys to the children of Sombertown, but his wish is forbidden by the Burgermeister Meisterburger. However, Kris goes against the Burgermeister Meisterburger’s command to bring joy to everyone in the town. The voice cast includes Fred Astaire as S.D., Mickey Rooney as Kris Kringle, Keenan Wynn as Winter, and Paul Frees as Burgermeister Meisterburger, to name a few.

In a scene from Disney’s Full-Court Miracle, actor Jason Blicker as Marshall Schlotsky wraps his arms around actors Alex D. Linz as Alex Schlotsky and Linda Kash as Cynthia Schlotsky. The three characters look at a lit menorah with white candles on a white countertop. Blicker and Linz both wear black yarmulkes atop their heads. Linz wears a tan sweater with brown stripes down the sleeves. Blicker wears a black button-down shirt. Kash wears a red turtleneck sweater and a black jacket.

Full-Court Miracle—Wednesday, December 21, on Disney+
Celebrate Hanukkah with a viewing of this fan-favorite Disney Channel Original Movie—as well as these spectacular holiday-themed specials. Based on the true story of Lamont Carr, the film follows a Jewish basketball team in Philadelphia in desperate need of a new head coach. Alex (Alex D. Linz) loves basketball, but his academy’s team has yet to win a game. After a chance encounter with Lamont (Richard T. Jones), Alex persuades the injured college basketball player to coach them. Despite the concerns of the academy’s teachers and administrators, the team’s misfortunes suddenly rebound.

In a scene from Disney+ Original series Willow, actor Warwick Davis portrays Willow Ufgood. Davis holds a carved wooden staff in his right hand and wears a maroon cape, a brown textured coat, and a tan long-sleeved shirt. Behind Davis is a snow-covered forest.

Willow—Wednesday, December 21, on Disney+
The epic journey continues after the action-packed events of Episode 4. Last week’s episode concluded with the unlikely band of heroes—Willow (Warwick Davis), Boorman (Amar Chadha-Patel), Jade (Erin Kellyman), Kit (Ruby Cruz), Elora (Ellie Bamber), and Graydon (Tony Revolori)—surviving the haunted castle and continuing their quest to Immemorial City. However, the Crone’s minions are watching their every move and plot to hunt them down.

In a scene from Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas, Goofy, dressed as Santa Claus in a red suit and a long white beard, sits in a purple armchair. Goofy is surrounded by small children who are climbing on the chair and pulling the beard. Max stands to the left and wears a green hooded sweatshirt and a pair of black pants. On the fireplace are a green garland, a lamp, and three colorful stockings.

Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas—Thursday, December 22, at 1:30 p.m. ET/PT on Freeform
Freeform’s “25 Days of Christmas” festivities continue with a presentation of this heartwarming animated special. Over three separate stories, beloved characters Donald Duck, Goofy, Mickey Mouse, and their pals discover the true meaning of the holiday season. From “sled rides” in the snow to playing Santa Claus, you won’t want to miss all the Christmas spirit!

In a scene from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Strange World, human characters Callisto Mal, Ethan Clade, Searcher Clade, Jaeger Clade, Meridian, and a gray and white shaggy dog named Legend huddle together in the cockpit of a space shuttle. Meridian steers the ship white the other characters look forward.

Strange World—Friday, December 23, on Disney+
A “strange” family adventure is coming to the streaming service this week! The animated film from Walt Disney Animation Studios introduces a legendary family of explorers, the Clades, as they attempt to navigate an uncharted, treacherous land alongside a motley crew that includes a mischievous blob called Splat; the family dog, Legend; and a slew of ravenous creatures. The star-studded voice cast includes Jake Gyllenhaal as Searcher Clade, a family man who finds himself out of his element on an unpredictable mission; Dennis Quaid as Jaeger, Searcher’s larger-than-life explorer father; Jaboukie Young-White as Ethan, Searcher’s 16-year-old adventure-seeking son; Gabrielle Union as Meridian, an accomplished pilot and Searcher’s partner in all things; and Lucy Liu as Callisto Mal, Avalonia’s fearless leader who spearheads the exploration into the strange world.

Everything New You Can Stream on Disney+ in January 2023

By Zach Johnson

First up is Star Wars: The Bad Batch, premiering with two episodes on Wednesday, January 4. Months have passed since the events on Kamino, and the Bad Batch continue their journey navigating the Empire after the fall of the Republic. They will cross paths with friends and foes, both new and familiar, as they take on a variety of thrilling mercenary missions that bring them to unexpected and dangerous new places.

A week later, all episodes of Chasing Waves will debut. In the wake of surfing’s Olympic debut in Tokyo, Chasing Waves spotlights the people and places defining Japan’s reach in the global surf culture. This character-driven documentary series follows multicultural athletes in pursuit of their dreams, paints a captivating picture of Japanese life, and showcases what it takes to succeed in the international surf industry. Also premiering that day with all episodes is Gina Yei. Cheerful and creative, Gina Yei is a songwriter at heart. Thanks to her lyric-writing abilities, she gets the chance of a lifetime when she wins a scholarship to the prestigious Caribbean Music Institute in Puerto Rico—the birthplace of reggaeton and the very best place to study Latin music.

On Wednesday, January 18, the Disney+ Original King Shakir Recycle will debut on the streaming service. In it, scientists trying to solve the environmental crisis of pollution devise a way to send the collected garbage into space via rocket ships. When this garbage starts to land on alien planets, the outraged aliens head to Earth for revenge—and King Shakir and his family must protect the world from alien destruction.

The Disney+ Original Mila in the Multiverse will premiere on Wednesday, January 25. Mila is 16 years old and experiencing the adventure of a lifetime as she travels through the multiverse in search of her mother, Elis. But during her travels, she will come face to face with The Operators, a mysterious and dangerous group that wants to exterminate all universes. She will have to face them in order to save the multiverse.

Each Wednesday throughout the month, a new episode of the Disney+ Original series National Treasure: Edge of History and Willow will debut. Other additions to the ever-growing Disney+ library in January include American Blackout, Bride & Prejudice (Season 1), Lost Treasures of Egypt (Season 4), Hacking the System (Season 1), Magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom (Season 2), and Riding Britain’s Railways (Season 1).

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

Wednesday, January 4
The Boonies (Season 1)
Locked Up Abroad (Season 12)
Lost Treasures of Egypt (Season 4)
Magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom (Season 2)
National Treasure: Edge of History (Episode 5: “Bad Romance”)
Primal Survivor: Over the Andes (Season 1)
Star Wars: The Bad Batch (Season 2) (Episode 201: “Spoils of War,” Episode 202: “Ruins of War”) (Premiere)
Underworld, Inc. (Seasons 1–2)
Willow (Episode 7)

Friday, January 6
Strangest Bird Alive

In the SuperKitties episode “The Great Yarn Caper,” Buddy, Sparks, Ginny, Bitsy, and Cat Burglar—five cats wearing superhero costumes—stand on the sidewalk. Behind them is a rainbow wall of yarn and a turquoise wall with blue and brown doors.

Wednesday, January 11
Airport Security (Seasons 4–8)
Best in Bridal (Season 1)
Bride & Prejudice (Season 1)
Celebrity Ghost Stories (Seasons 5–6)
Chasing Waves (All Episodes Streaming)
Evil Genius (Season 1)
Gina Yei (All Episodes Streaming)
My Ghost Story (Season 1)
National Treasure: Edge of History (Episode 6: “Frenemies”)
Star Wars: The Bad Batch (Episode 203: “The Solitary Clone”)
SuperKitties (Season 1, 11 Episodes)
Willow (Episode 8)

Wednesday, January 18
Chibi Tiny Tales (Shorts) (Season 3, 14 Episodes)
King Shakir Recycle (Premiere)
Mickey Mouse Funhouse (Season 2, 5 Episodes)
Me & Mickey (Shorts) (Season 1, 20 Episodes)
National Treasure: Edge of History (Episode 7: “Point of No Return”)
Night Stalkers (Season 1)
Secret Life of Predators (Season 1)
Star Wars: The Bad Batch (Episode 204: “Faster”)

Friday, January 20
Ocean’s Breath
Sharkatraz 

Omega, a blond clone of Jango Fett, is backlit and looks concerned.

Wednesday, January 25
Bloody Tales of Europe (Season 1)
Dino Ranch (Season 2, 6 Episodes)
Hacking the System (Season 1)
Mila in the Multiverse (Premiere)
National Treasure: Edge of History (Episode 8: “Family Tree”)
Riding Britain’s Railways (Season 1)
Star Wars: The Bad Batch (Episode 205: “Entombed”)

Friday, January 27
American Blackout
Challenger Disaster: Lost Tapes
T. Rex Autopsy

Delightful New Encanto at the Hollywood Bowl Trailer—Plus More in News Briefs

By Courtney Potter

Meet the Family Madrigal in a Whole New Way with Encanto at the Hollywood Bowl

Step into Casa Madrigal for an unprecedented concert spectacular as the original voice cast of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Academy Award®-winning Encanto reunites at the Hollywood Bowl for a spectacular concert event—featuring fan-favorite musical numbers from the now three-time Grammy®-nominated soundtrack. Check out the special’s brand-new trailer, below: 

Starring Stephanie Beatriz (as Mirabel), Jessica Darrow (as Luisa), Diane Guerrero (as Isabela), Adassa (as Dolores), Carolina Gaitán (as Pepa), Mauro Castillo (as Félix), Angie Cepeda (as Julieta), and Olga Merediz (as Abuela Alma)—along with legendary Colombian superstars and multiple Latin Grammy winners Carlos Vives and Andrés Cepeda—Encanto at the Hollywood Bowl turns the historic venue into the world of the animated film that became a global phenomenon. The concert, featuring an 80-person orchestra, 50 dancers, and out-of-this-world special effects, gives viewers a front-row seat to the musical extravaganza celebrating the world, characters, and songs of the animated hit.

Encanto at the Hollywood Bowl is directed by Chris Howe (Coldplay Live at Whitby Abbey, Bruno Mars: 24k Magic Live at Apollo), and choreographed by Jamal Sims and Kai Martinez, the film’s original choreographer and animation reference consultant, respectively. Conductor Anthony Parnther leads the full orchestra, performing the film’s score and cherished songs live-to-picture, and the outstanding cast and special guest artists perform the film’s acclaimed songs live; a Colombian band, featuring musicians from the original soundtrack, accompanies the orchestra.

See it exclusively on Disney+ beginning December 28!

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

Wasn’t it just Halloween? Thanksgiving? And now we’re heading into the first few nights of Hanukkah, and Christmas is just around the corner… what’s there to watch from around the worlds of Disney? A new sing-along version of Muppets Most Wanted on Disney+; the always enjoyable, holiday-adjacent presentation of The Sound of Music on ABC; and much more where that came from.

In a still from Disney+’s The Santa Clauses, Disney Legend Tim Allen as Santa Claus/Scott Calvin (on left) and Elizabeth Mitchell as Mrs. Claus/Carol Calvin (on right) are facing one another. Santa has white hair and a white beard; Mrs. Claus has blond hair in a chignon and is wearing glasses. Both wear red tops. Mrs. Claus looks concerned, and has her hand resting on Santa’s chest.

Disney+ Orders Second Season of The Santa Clauses

Great news, Santa fans! Following the debut of The Santa Clauses season finale this past week, Disney+ announced a Season 2 greenlight for the Original series! Disney Legend Tim Allen will continue in the beloved role of Santa/Scott Calvin and serve as an executive producer, while Elizabeth Mitchell will reprise her role as Mrs. Claus/Carol from Walt Disney Pictures’ blockbuster franchise.

In the series’ first season, we catch back up with Scott Calvin, who’s been Santa Claus for nearly 30 years and is as jolly as ever. But as Christmas declines in popularity, so does his Santa magic… Scott struggles to keep up with the demands of the job, as well as being there for his family. Upon discovering there is a way to retire from his post, Scott considers stepping down as Santa Claus and finding a worthy successor so that he can become a better father and husband.

But wait, there’s more: Season 1 of The Santa Clauses will also make its broadcast television debut throughout the rest of December, across ABC, FX, Disney Channel, and Freeform. Each network will air the first two episodes…

  • Friday, December 16, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Freeform, following a special marathon of The Santa Clausemovie trilogy
  • Saturday, December 17, at 8 p.m. ET/PT on FX
  • Saturday, December 24, at 3:30 p.m. ET/12:30 p.m. PT on ABC
  • Sunday, December 25, 7 p.m. ET/PT on Disney Channel

All episodes of The Santa Clauses are now available to stream on Disney+!

In concept art for Donald’s Dine ’n Delights at Shanghai Disney Resort’s Disneytown, guests are seen walking up to the outside of the restaurant, which has two dark-colored domes on top; tables with orange striped umbrellas out front on the patio. Two signs can be seen with Chinese characters as well as English lettering, spelling out “Donald’s Dine ’n Delights.” Several trees can be seen on either side of the restaurant, and flower boxes line the front of the restaurant’s patio area.

Shanghai Disney Announces Donald’s Dine ‘n Delights Coming to Disneytown

Donald Duck will soon welcome Shanghai Disney Resort guests to his all-new Parisian-style garden-themed restaurant Donald’s Dine ‘n Delights in Disneytown—and we’ve got a feeling it really is all it’s quacked up to be!

Waddle down to the beautiful restaurant, where a marquee displaying a smiling Donald Duck sporting his chef outfit welcomes all. The bistro serves up freshly baked specialty pizza made by the in-house pizza chef, over-the-top milkshakes, and rich sundaes in a variety of flavors—as well as other delectable desserts. The exterior features a domed building of glass and brass highlights shaded by beautiful trees, making it perfect for outdoor seating during the day, weather permitting. The Art Nouveau style serves as inspiration for the whimsical details adorning the glass and decorative ironwork. As night falls on the quaint café, the golden glow from inside will remind guests of the famed “City of Light” on which its based…

Besides Donald, guests will also find Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Pluto, Daisy, as well as his nephews Huey, Dewey, and Louie—and even his occasional nemeses Chip and Dale—represented throughout the interior. Oval framed art features the iconic group of friends prominently hung over the booths and tables, in a casual and urban sophisticated atmosphere.

Look for Donald’s Dine ‘n Delights at Shanghai Disney Resort this winter.

New Trailer and Premiere Date for The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder

Earlier this week, Disney+ announced that the second season of the Emmy® Award-winning original series The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder will premiere Wednesday, February 1—so make sure to mark those calendars! The Disney Branded Television series is a critically acclaimed revival of Disney’s groundbreaking The Proud Family… and it just recently won Outstanding Casting for an Animated Program at the inaugural Children’s & Family Emmy Awards!

From creator and executive producer Bruce W. Smith and executive producer Ralph Farquhar, The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder continues the story of its central character, Penny Proud (voiced by Kyla Pratt), and her iconic family: parents Oscar (voiced by Tommy Davidson) and Trudy (voiced by Paula Jai Parker), twin siblings BeBe (voiced by Bresha Webb) and CeCe (voiced by Aiden Dodson), grandmother Suga Mama (voiced by JoMarie Payton), as well as Puff (voiced by Carlos Alazraqui). By Penny’s side is her loyal crew of Dijonay Jones (voiced by Karen Malina White), LaCienega Boulevardez (voiced by Alisa Reyes), Zoey Howzer (voiced by Soleil Moon Frye), Maya Leibowitz-Jenkins (voiced by Keke Palmer), and Michael Collins (voiced by EJ Johnson).

Cedric the Entertainer returns as the voice of Uncle Bobby, with Carlos Mencia as Felix Boulevardez, Maria Canals-Barrera as Sunset Boulevardez, Alvaro Gutierrez as Papi, Raquel Lee Bolleau as Nubia Gross, and Marcus T. Paulk as Myron. Billy Porter and Zachary Quinto return as Randall and Barry Leibowitz-Jenkins, with Asante Blackk as Kareem, and Artist “A Boogie” Dubose as Francis “KG” Leibowitz-Jenkins.

And as seen in the above new featurette, the previously announced guest star lineup includes Gabrielle Union, Chance the Rapper, Normani, Leslie Odom Jr., Disney Legend Anthony Anderson, Dominique Dawes, Gabby Douglas, Laurie Hernandez, Holly Robinson Peete, Maury Povich, Storm Reid, Courtney B. Vance, and Liana Mendoza.

The first season of The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder is available to stream on Disney+, and, beginning January 2023, episodes will air weekly on Disney Channel and Disney XD. All seasons of The Proud Family are also currently available on the streaming service.

A headshot of Bryce Dallas Howard, who will be starring in Disney’s reimagining of their Witch Mountain franchise. She has red hair and is wearing a chambray button-up shirt.

Disney+ Greenlights Witch Mountain Pilot

In further Disney+ news, our friends at the streaming service recently announced a pilot greenlight (that’s fancy Hollywood speak for “given the go-ahead”) for Witch Mountain, a reimagining of the successful film franchise. The series is a modern reinvention of the fan-favorite classic that takes place in the shadow of Witch Mountain, following two teens who develop strange abilities and discover their sleepy suburb may not be as idyllic as it seems.

Bryce Dallas Howard, known lately for her turn as director of The Mandalorian, will star in the leading role as Audrey, one of the teens’ devoted and loving mother. Her husband died from a mental illness, and now, she is trying to reassure her fretful daughter that she shows no sign of following her father’s dark spiral. She’s a warm “mama bear” type—but like everyone in this town, not everything is as it seems…

In addition to Howard, the pilot will also star Isabel Gravitt, Levi Miller, Bianca “b” Norwood, and Jackson Kelly. Look for more info on Witch Mountain in the months to come.

Hulu’s The 1619 Project Announces Premiere Date

Disney’s Onyx Collective announced a January 26 premiere date for Hulu’s upcoming six-part limited docuseries The 1619 Project, an expansion of “The 1619 Project” created by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones and The New York Times Magazine. The limited series will debut with the first two episodes streaming exclusively on Hulu, with two additional episodes released every Thursday.

In keeping with the original project, the series seeks to reframe the country’s history by placing the consequences of slavery and the contributions of Black Americans at the very center of our national narrative. The episodes—“Democracy,” “Race,” “Music,” “Capitalism,” “Fear,” and “Justice”—are adapted from essays from The New York Times’ No. 1 bestselling The 1619 Project: A New Origin Story and examine how the legacy of slavery shapes different aspects of contemporary American life.

The series, hosted by Nikole Hannah-Jones, is a Lionsgate Production in association with One Story Up Productions, Harpo Films, and The New York Times. Look for it to stream exclusively on Hulu in the U.S.; Star+ in Latin America; and Disney+ in all other territories.

In a promo image for Disneyland After Dark’s Sweethearts’ Nite, an event guide is being held up by a hand, with the bright lights of Disneyland’s Main Street, U.S.A. in the background. Caricatures of Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse can be seen on the event guide; Minnie is giving Mickey a kiss on the cheek.

Disneyland After Dark Returns in 2023

Yes, it’s true—Disneyland After Dark events are returning to the Disneyland Resort in 2023… and love is in the air! Along with the debut of Princess Nite, Disneyland After Dark will be hosting Sweethearts’ Nite for the ultimate date night. The event will offer scrumptious food and drinks, magical entertainment, encounters with your favorite Disney characters, as well as collectible merchandise!

Disneyland After Dark begins with a three-hour pre-party mix-in from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. PT at Disneyland Park, then the private party runs from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. PT, allowing ticketed guests to ride popular attractions after regular park hours. Additionally, at each event, guests receive unlimited digital downloads of Disney PhotoPass photos taken during the party, plus commemorative keepsakes including a souvenir credential and event guide map to remember their Disneyland After Dark experience.

Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts’ Nite will begin January 31 and will continue through select nights throughout February­­—just in time for Valentine’s Day! Celebrate the love of your life, your best pal, or a cherished family member at this very special evening. Disney’s most romantic scenes from films such as Lady and the Tramp and The Little Mermaid have inspired photo-ops across the parks. The event will also have special themed fireworks, a Royal Ball hosted by Aladdin and Jasmine, as well as a romantic moonlit cruise on the Mark Twain Riverboat.

Meanwhile, for all those royals out there, Disneyland After Dark: Princess Nite is coming to Disneyland Resort March 7 and 9. This all-new, first-ever event will be a celebration under the stars where adventurous heroines and aspirational hearts unite. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in this empowering event with iconic characters who light up the world with kindness, courage, and a touch of magic. With shimmering décor, special photo opportunities, themed food and beverage offerings, commemorative keepsakes, and characters galore, guests will be ready to step into their own adventure of bravery and grace. 

Tickets are now on sale at Disneyland.com. Get ’em while the gettin’ is good!

ICYMI: Disney Wins 16 Emmy® Awards at the Inaugural Children’s & Family Emmy Award Ceremonies

As alluded to earlier in these News Briefs, Disney had a delightful night at the first-ever Children’s & Family Emmy Awards, held at the Wilshire Ebell Theatre in Los Angeles. Across its content brands and studios, it won 16 awards; for a rundown of which among your favorites took home a coveted statuette, click here.

8 Disney Hanukkah Specials to Stream This Holiday Season

By Sarah Sterling

The holiday season is here... and while there is no shortage of holly, jolly films and shows to stream on Disney+, we thought we’d highlight some of the Hanukkah specials that are also available right now! Whether you’re getting ready for a winter-break streaming marathon or just looking for something to watch to learn more about the holiday itself, we’ve listed eight things to watch—one for each night of Hanukkah. 

1. The Ghost and Molly McGee – “Festival of Lights” (Season 1, Episode 10) - Play On YouTube

In this adventure, the entire McGee family and Scratch the ghost visit Libby Stein-Torres and her family for the final night of Hanukkah. When a sudden blackout occurs across the town of Brighton, Libby’s mom boots up their bookstore’s generator, but she only has enough gas for one hour. Inexplicably, the generator keeps running for eight hour—during which Libby and her family teach the McGee’s, and later the entire town (who come gather at the bookstore for warmth)—about their Hanukkah traditions!

Stream The Ghost and Molly McGee on Disney+

2. “Puppy for Hanukkah” - Play On YouTube

In 2020, Hamilton star Daveed Diggs partnered with Disney to create a new Hanukkah anthem — “Puppy for Hanukkah.” Written by Diggs, William Hutson, and Jonathan Snipes, “Puppy for Hanukkah” tells the story of a little Jewish boy wishing for a puppy each night of Hanukkah before finally receiving one on the last night of the holiday. The song also explains some of his Hanukkah traditions, with Diggs reciting a Hanukkah blessing in Hebrew mid-rap. You can enjoy this Hanukkah bop by streaming the adorable music video for “Puppy for Hanukkah” on Disney+!

Stream Puppy for Hanukkah on Disney+

3. Firebuds – “Hanukkah Hullabaloo” (Season 1, Episode 13) - Play On YouTube

One of Disney Junior’s newest holiday specials is this episode of Firebuds, where Bo wonders why his mother doesn’t put up Hanukkah decorations like his father does for Christmas. To share how special Hanukkah is with his community, Bo goes overboard with decorations for Hanukkah, including a gigantic dreidel balloon that flies off in the wind and causes mild destruction across town. In the end, Bo learns that Hanukkah is special for reasons other than flashing lights and balloons—and that people choose different ways to celebrate the holidays.

Stream Firebuds on Disney+

4. Even Stevens – “Heck of a Hanukkah” (Season 1, Episode 15)

In this episode of the Disney Channel classic Even Stevens, troublemaker Louis Stevens can’t wait to open presents and searches for the Hanukkah gifts his parents have hidden somewhere in the house. When he ultimately finds them and ruins the family gift exchange for everyone, he ends up grounded for the entirety of Hanukkah. In an homage to 1946’s It’s a Wonderful Life, the ghost of Louis’ great-great-great-great-grandmother, Bubbe Rose, appears to show him what his family would be like if he had never been born.

Stream Even Stevens on Disney+

5. Full Court Miracle

Based on the true story of the University of Virginia Cavaliers basketball star Lamont Carr, this 2003 Disney Channel Original Movie follows a Jewish basketball team in Philadelphia who need a new coach. Set during Hanukkah, this group of high school athletes find college student Lamont Carr and convince him to be their basketball coach. When the power goes out during the team’s final championship game, they make an agreement with their opponents that whoever has the most points when the generator runs out will win. In a true Hanukkah twist, the generator goes out and our heroes are losing, but the power miraculously comes back on and allows them to score the winning basket.

Stream Full Court Miracle on Disney+

6. Puppy Dog Pals – “Latke Kerfuffle” (Season 1, Episode 20)

In this episode of Disney Junior’s Puppy Dog Pals, Bingo and Rolly go on a mission to help their owner, Bob, make latkes for their neighbor Chloe’s Hanukkah party! While on the hunt for eggs and potatoes, the pups sing a song about the “festival of lights” and how delicious latkes are. Bob makes enough latkes for everyone at Chloe’s party and Bingo and Rolly even get to attend, participating in the lighting of the Chanukiah when they spot the first star in the night sky.

Stream Puppy Dog Pals on Disney+

7. Pepper Ann – “A Kosher Christmas” (Season 3, Episode 11)

Pepper Ann is another Disney character who celebrates both Hanukkah and Christmas, and in this holiday episode she mistakenly believes that her parents want her to choose only one holiday to celebrate. She begins to make a list of what she loves most about each holiday to help her decide. In the end, she tells her parents that she loves Hanukkah and Christmas, and that choosing between them would be like choosing between her parents themselves! Of course, it was all a misunderstanding, and her parents were never asking her to choose between the two holidays. Together with her family, Pepper Ann has a great holiday season celebrating both Hanukkah and Christmas.

Stream Pepper Ann on Disney+

8. Elena of Avalor – “Festival of Lights” (Season 3, Episode 18) - Play On YouTube

When Princess Rebecca of Galonia and her grandmother shipwreck on the shores of Avalor, it is up to Elena and her family to give them the best Hanukkah celebration possible! Rebecca and her family teach Elena all about Hanukkah, as well as some and Yiddish words like “nosh” (to have a snack) and “mitzvah” (a good deed). When Rebecca gets caught up in making their Hanukkah party absolutely perfect, it’s her bubbe (grandmother) who reminds her that Hanukkah is about carrying on even through the toughest challenges and making the most of what you have.

Stream Elena of Avalor on Disney+

The Ultimate Guide to Disney Holiday Magic from Target

By the D23 Team

If you’re a Disney Fan like us, we know you’re looking for any opportunity to add some Disney magic to your holiday activities, whether through baking, decorating, or keeping cozy! We’ve rounded up some of our festive favorites from our friends at Target that feature Mickey and friends, along with other fan-favorite characters, to help make your season merry and bright.

Mickey Mouse and Friends 6pc Stainless Steel Cookie Cutter Set

In the mood to make something sweet this season? Max out the Disney magic in your cookies with these cookie cutter shaped like Mickey, Minnie, and festive items.

Disney Mickey Mouse & Friends Mickey Mouse Lit Blow Mold Figure – Disney store

Bring some old school cool to your holiday décor with this 1930s-inspired Mickey Mouse holiday figure that LIGHTS UP!

Disney Mickey Mouse & Friends 5ct Character Christmas Tree Ornament Set – Disney store

These festive friends are ready for winter in this glittering ornament set that’s the perfect way to complete any Disney fan’s tree. 

Disney Frozen 2 Elsa and The Nokk Christmas Tree Ornament – Disney store

Show yourself the best decorations for your tree—like this beautiful ornament of Elsa and the water Nokk, inspired by Frozen 2.

Disney Treasure Planet Christmas Tree Ornament – Disney store

Rattle the stars—on your Christmas tree, that is—with this Legacy Ornament celebrating 20 years of Treasure Planet!

Marvel Spider-Man Snow Globe Christmas Tree Ornament – Disney store

Nothing like a friendly neighborhood ornament to sling some style onto your Christmas tree! Spider-Man is dressed for swinging through the snow inside this glass globe ornament with a satin ribbon for hanging.

Women’s Disney Mickey Mouse Holiday Turtleneck Graphic T-Shirt – Disney Store

Keep cozy with the CUTEST holiday turtleneck featuring a winter wonderland perfect for Mickey and friends to frolic through.

Star Wars Holiday Ewok Plush

Your Life Day celebration is about to have out-of-this-world cuteness thanks to this adorable plushie of Wicket the Ewok.

Men’s Mickey Mouse Hanukkah Short Sleeve Graphic T-Shirt – Blue – Disney Store

Make your Festival of Lights a little more Mickey with this Happy Hanukkah T-shirt that includes an embroidered greeting on the sleeve!

Disney Munchlings Peppermint Bark Cupcake Mickey Mouse Scented Medium Plush – Disney store

If you’re as OBSESSED with Disney Munchlings as we are, you’ll LOVE this special seasonal plush! Reimagined as a Peppermint Bark Cupcake, this Mickey plush actually smells like candy cane.

Disney Princess Tiana Cooking Set

If you have any little ones who are almost there when it comes to helping out in the kitchen, this cooking play set lets them live out their festive foodie dreams! Channel Princess Tiana herself with this 12-piece set that includes utensils, a pot, a placemat, and more!

Kids’ Disney Mickey Mouse Slide Slippers – Red/Blue 9-10 – Disney Store

The cold winter chill has met its match in these magical Mickey slippers! Keep your feet warm in these super cute slippers inspired by Sorcerer Apprentice Mickey himself.

Women’s Disney Minnie Mouse Crew Neck Fleece Sweatshirt – Green – Disney Store

If you’ve made your shopping list, make sure you check it twice—this swell sweatshirt is a must-have to complete your winter wardrobe in ultimate Minnie style.

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

Happy new Marvel Studios movie release to all who celebrate! If you’re as obsessed with Black Panther: Wakanda Forever as we are, you’ll want to add these items to your holiday wish list:

LEGO Marvel Black Panther: Wakanda Forever War on the Water 76214 Building Toy Set

Build the Royal Sea Leopard ship and set sail for an action-packed adventure that includes minifigures of M’Baku, Okoye, Black Panther, Ironheart MK2, and King Namor.

Marvel Black Panther Marvel Studios Legacy Collection Black Panther Vibranium Power FX Mask (Target Exclusive)

This Target-exclusive mask has everything you need to be inspired by the power of the Black Panther—pulsating and fixed light effects and an epic, movie-inspired design.

Marvel Studios’ Black Panther Legacy Wakanda FX Battle Claws Light-Up Role Play Toy

Channel the power of the Panther while you play using these Battle Claws activated via the Wakandan Salute.

Marvel Black Panther: Wakanda Forever Titan Hero Series – Shuri, Ironheart, Namor Action Figures 3pk (Target Exclusive)

Recreate the action from Black Panther: Wakanda Forever—or, create your own—with this action figure set featuring Shuri, Ironheart, and Namor.

Marvel Black Panther: Wakanda Forever Vibranium Blast Sunbird Jet with Shuri Action Figure

Take playtime to new heights with this action figure set featuring the Princess of Wakanda herself, along with this Vibranium Blast Sunbird that can transform from flight mode to battle mode!

Funko POP! Deluxe: Black Panther – T’Challa on the Throne (Target Exclusive)

Let the King of Wakanda take his rightful place—both on his throne and in your Funko POP! Collection. This Target Exclusive figure displays an iconic moment from the original Black Panther film.

To find all these Disney favorites and more, visit your nearby Target store or shop target.com/Disney. Make sure to visit our  Target Partner Page to check out the Spotlight Collection for future announcements.

 

Walt Disney Imagineering is Celebrating 70 Years of Making Magic: Shop the Mickey’s of Glendale Exclusive Collection Online

In 1952, Walt Disney assembled a team, who would come to be known as Imagineers,to help him plan, design, and build his dream—Disneyland.  For seven decades, the magic makers at Walt Disney Imagineering have blended limitless imagination with cutting-edge technology to create groundbreaking experiences that bring together families and friends to form lifelong memories.

Mickey’s of Glendale, the Walt Disney Imagineering campus store, is excited to offer D23 Gold Members the chance to join in on the celebration with this special merchandise opportunity.

The online event is scheduled to begin on December 16 at 7 a.m. PT.

You must be signed in as a D23 Gold Member to access this event.

SHOP NOW

Walt Disney Imagineering 70th Anniversary Collection:

Walt Disney Imagineering 70th Anniversary Stainless Steel Sport Canteen by Corkcicle

Walt Disney Imagineering 70th Anniversary Stainless Steel Commuter Mug by Corkcicle

Walt Disney Imagineering 70th Anniversary Platinum Logo Baseball Cap 

Walt Disney Imagineering 70th Anniversary Platinum Foil Tee

Walt Disney Imagineering 70th Anniversary Full Color Logo Tee

Walt Disney Imagineering 70th Anniversary B & W Logo Tee

Walt Disney Imagineering 70th Anniversary Logo Tee

Note: New Gold Members will not be eligible to shop until the following day after the purchase of a Gold Membership.

Avatar: The Way of Water Cast and Filmmakers Celebrate Film’s Global Premieres

By Andie Hagemann

Ahead of audiences’ long-awaited return to Pandora, the cast and filmmakers from 20th Century Studios’ Avatar: The Way of Water celebrated the film’s premiere across the globe with star-studded events in London, Seoul, and Tokyo. Avatar: The Way of Water opens in theaters on Friday, December 16.

Set more than a decade after the events of the first film, Avatar: The Way of Water begins to tell the story of the Sully family—Jake (Sam Worthington), Neytiri (Zoe Saldaña), and their kids—the trouble that follows them, the lengths they go to keep each other safe, the battles they fight to stay alive, and the tragedies they endure.

Avatar: The Way of Water is directed by James Cameron and produced by Cameron and Jon Landau. The screenplay is by Cameron & Rick Jaffa & Amanda Silver from a story by Cameron & Jaffa & Silver & Friedman & Salerno. David Valdes and Richard Baneham serve as executive producers.

The dazzling world premiere in London’s Leicester Square on Tuesday, December 6, included stars Worthington, Saldaña, Sigourney Weaver, Stephen Lang, Kate Winslet, Joel David Moore, Jamie Flatters, Trinity Jo-Li Bliss, Jack Champion, Brendan Cowell, Bailey Bass, as well as Cameron and Landau.

And on Friday, December 9, Worthington, Saldaña, Weaver, Lang, Cameron, and Landau attended the Korean premiere and photo call in Seoul.

Tokyo welcomed the stars and filmmakers on Saturday, December 10, at Toho Cinemas Hibiya Midtown. Worthington, Saldaña, Weaver, Lang, Cameron, Landau, and more greeted fans, signing autographs and posing for selfies.

Check out more photos from the Avatar: The Way of Water global premieres in the gallery below.