Movies

Big changes are in store for the Muppets at Walt Disney World

BBG News

As a lifelong Disney and Muppets fanatic who has grown up with Kermit, Fozzie, and the gang, I must say this news is bittersweet. On one hand, I’m excited to see the Electric Mayhem Band take over the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster – it’s a move that’s been long overdue! On the other, the closure of MuppetVision 3D feels like saying goodbye to an old friend.

For devoted Muppet enthusiasts, there’s a mix of excitement and disappointment, as one cherished Disney’s Hollywood Studios attraction is shutting down. Yet, the Muppets continue to thrive elsewhere!

Since D23’s significant announcements, enthusiasts of The Muppets have expressed concerns over the future of MuppetVision 3D. Given Disney’s plans for an extensive Monsters Inc-themed area, complete with a roller coaster, the artwork seems to indicate potential changes to the Muppet area that might eliminate the 3D movie experience.

It’s been confirmed that MuppetVision 3D will indeed be closed down in the year 2025. This popular attraction, which opened in 1991, was a significant part of the deal when Jim Henson sold the Muppets to Disney in 1990. This agreement gave Disney the rights to use the Muppets, while Henson could continue creating new projects. Originally, there were plans for attractions such as The Great Muppet Movie Ride.

Unfortunately, Henson’s unexpected passing in 1990 and the subsequent legal complications halted any further development of rides related to him. However, Disney did utilize the Muppets for several films, but aside from sporadic park performances, only MuppetVision became a permanent attraction at the parks.

As a devoted fan, I’ve always admired the lasting impact of Jim Henson’s final project on the show’s remarkable endurance. Despite the decades passing, 33 years is an astonishing length of time for any Disney attraction to remain untouched – so it was only natural that many of us anticipated its eventual removal. Indeed, the California Adventure version was already taken down back in 2014.

Despite speculations, the Muppets are not disappearing from our screens. In fact, Disney revealed that the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster will be transformed to showcase the Electric Mayhem Band. There have been whispers for quite some time now about a new theme being needed after 25 years with Aerosmith, and the extended closure seems to suggest that Disney has indeed been preparing something new.

This is an excellent decision by Disney, as the structure can conveniently be redesigned with a Muppet motif, complete with their signature humor and inside jokes. Elements from MuppetVision and the Mayhem band will contribute a delightful blend of fresh tunes and timeless classics. Additionally, it’s entertaining to envision the Muppets appearing during the roller coaster ride itself, and possibly even cameos from real-life rock stars.

The Disney press release noted the changes and how they want to honor the Muppets in some way. 

The monsters are taking over, and Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, and their friends will be departing to Sunset Boulevard! However, there’s more to this tale: The Muppets are set to conquer Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, collaborating with some of music’s greatest icons for a rocking musical festival. We can’t wait for you all to experience the hilarity, excitement, and fresh tunes that this ride will offer. Additionally, there will be an abundance of Muppets-themed merchandise available on Sunset Boulevard! This marks the first Disney attraction ever to feature The Muppets, ensuring a fun-filled adventure for all fans.

The article hinted that the MuppetVision might survive in a different format, possibly as a streaming service similar to the online release of the iconic film “Captain EO” featuring Michael Jackson.

As we advance with these modifications, we’re engaging in imaginative discussions and brainstorming methods to safeguard the movie and its associated experiences for fans to appreciate in the time to come.

It’s regrettable to watch MuppetVision being closed, as it was showing signs of aging for quite some time. However, its longevity was due to the deep respect we have for Henson, despite the Muppets experiencing varying levels of popularity among viewers. We can only hope that the show will continue in a different form and potentially find a new location in the future.

Clearing room allows for the expansion of the Monsteropolis area, essential for both the structure and the large roller coaster. This area is another exciting feature for the park, as it presents an opportunity for Monsters Inc. to create their unique entertainment section.

The decision to maintain Disney’s Muppets and incorporate them into Rock N Roller Coaster is an excellent choice as it aligns with what many fans have been requesting. Although no specific dates have been announced for closure of MuppetVision or Rock N Roller Coaster, guests can continue enjoying both attractions for some time. Despite the potential disappointment surrounding the possible departure of MuppetVision, the upcoming changes in Hollywood Studios due to Monsters Inc.-themed rides indicate a major transformation in the park over the next few years.

Read More

2024-11-23 06:27

Previous post 6 popular scary movies released this year now streaming on Shudder
Next post Disneyland Paris looks absolutely magical covered in snow