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Disney Announces Indiana Jones and the Myth of the Jade Serpent
You may be asking, “Why’d it have to be snakes?” and Walt Disney Imagineering has a great answer for that.
Indiana Jones has spent a lifetime uncovering hidden temples, ancient mysteries, and legendary artifacts across the globe. During D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, Disney excavated a few massive discoveries of its own, unveiling brand-new details about the Indiana Jones attraction heading to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park at Walt Disney World Resort.
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During the Disney Experiences showcase, “Horizons: A Carousel of Progress,” Imagineers Michael Hundgen and Chris Beatty revealed a treasure trove of announcements about everyone’s favorite hero with a snake grudge. Nestled inside the upcoming 11-acre land of Tropical Americas, the ride will feature revolutionary Audio-Animatronics, an original storyline, and a grand escapade that transports guests into the world of the ancient Maya.
So, grab your field journal and fedora—let’s uncover these exciting new updates!
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Harrison Ford Revealed as Animatronic Model
The presentation kicked off with a surprise message from Indy himself, Disney Legend Harrison Ford. After expressing his gratitude to fans for coming along for the ride on so many adventures over the decades, Ford shared groundbreaking news: he is the actual model for the next Indiana Jones Audio-Animatronics figure.
This marks the first time Ford’s exact likeness will appear on a Disney attraction anywhere in the world. Michael Hundgen and Chris Beatty showcased the detailed digital scan being used by Imagineering to bring the iconic archeologist to life in physical form.
What is the New Indiana Jones Attraction Called?
Michael and Chris officially confirmed the public title of the ride: Indiana Jones and the Myth of the Jade Serpent. This next chapter in Indy’s journey promises to combine high-stakes archeological adventure with the deep, environmental storytelling signature to Animal Kingdom.
Cultural Inspiration and Real World Authenticity
Imagineers wanted to blend classic Indiana Jones thrills with rich cultural details tailored to Animal Kingdom—a park dedicated to creatures both real and imagined.
- The Setting: Set in the 1950s, the ride takes guests beneath an ancient temple ruin, showcasing Maya culture and its profound connection to nature.
- Real-World Construction: Construction is officially underway on the physical temple entrance, with Imagineers offering a behind-the-scenes look at the massive facade.
- Authentic Storytelling: The project team is collaborating closely with archaeologists, anthropologists, and Maya experts to ensure architectural and historical accuracy. Highly detailed, original Maya artwork will cover the interior temple walls.
What is the Storyline?
Riders rendezvous with Dr. Jones as he explores a mysterious temple discovered near a cenote—a water-filled underground cave. Local legend warns that the passage leads directly to the Maya Underworld, protected by a legendary serpentine creature: the Tsukán.
The expedition takes a chaotic turn when riders are pulled through a mystical portal into the Underworld. To make it back alive, you’ll have to escape perils including:
- Monstrous bats
- Larger-than-life scorpions
- Pits of fire and flame
- …and lots of snakes
Face-to-Face with the Tsukán
The Tsukán stalks riders throughout the attraction, culminating in a terrifying final confrontation.
Imagineers showcased a first look at the massive Audio-Animatronics figure of the Tsukán. Towering over the creators bringing it to life, the figure is being meticulously sculpted by hand to make the legendary snake as lifelike—and fear-inducing—as possible.
Prepare your fedoras—exploration awaits when Tropical Americas opens at Disney’s Animal Kingdom!
