Despite Poor Reviews, ‘The Super Mario Galaxy Movie’ Is a HIT!
Following its Wednesday debut, the film brought in an impressive $129.4 million domestically over its first three days. When accounting for its full five-day opening window starting April 1, the movie is projected to land between $190 million and $200 million in North America. This narrowly trails the $204.6 million five-day start of its 2023 predecessor, but it easily unseats Project Hail Mary for the top opening weekend of the year.
Globally, the film is performing even better, with projections placing its worldwide opening weekend total at over $350 million.
There is a massive divide between professional reviews and ticket-buyer sentiment. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film currently holds a 41% critic score, with reviewers calling the plot “rushed.” However, the audience score tells a different story at 91%, backed by a strong A- CinemaScore. Fans are clearly embracing the “out-of-this-world” journey as Mario and Luigi team up to rescue Princess Rosalina (voiced by Brie Larson) from Bowser Jr.
The movie isn’t just breaking records on the screen. AMC Theaters CEO Adam Aron reported that the chain has seen its highest volume of merchandise sales since the Taylor Swift Eras Tour concert film. AMC locations ordered over 500,000 themed items, and nearly two-thirds of that inventory was sold out by Friday night alone.
The sequel features the return of Chris Pratt, Anya Taylor-Joy, Charlie Day, and Jack Black. New additions to the universe include Donald Glover as Yoshi, Benny Safdie as Bowser Jr., and Glen Powell as Fox McCloud, signaling that Nintendo and Illumination are successfully expanding their cinematic universe.
See the New Winnie the Pooh Confectionery Display at Disney’s Grand Californian
Winnie the Pooh is taking center stage at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa with a stunning new confectionery display, specially created to honor the beloved character’s 100th anniversary!
Winnie the Pooh has inspired a delightful new confectionery display tucked away in the lobby of Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. Shared by Disney Eats on Instagram, this edible masterpiece pulls double duty as a celebration of both Earth Month and the 100th anniversary of the original A.A. Milne stories that started it all.
Available for guests to view throughout the month of April, the display features a massive recreation of Pooh’s iconic treehouse. The whole crew is there to mark the milestone, with Pooh, Piglet, Tigger, and Eeyore gathered around a “hunny”-covered birthday cake. You can also spot Rabbit tending to his garden, along with countless “bee-utiful” intricate details scattered throughout the scene.
The Grand Californian is famous for these impressive installations, which are typically sculpted from a mix of rice cereal treats, fondant, and modeling chocolate. Be sure to stop by and marvel at this towering sweet tribute during your next visit to the Disneyland Resort!
Disney DAS Discrimination Complaint Moves Forward to State Investigation
A new development in the ongoing conversation surrounding Disney’s Disability Access Service is putting the spotlight back on accessibility at Walt Disney World. A discrimination complaint filed with the Florida Commission on Human Relations has officially moved into the investigation phase after mediation failed to occur before the March deadline.
The complaint comes from a Disney Vacation Club family who says recent changes to DAS have made navigating the parks not just difficult, but unsafe. The guest, who relies on a medically necessary power wheelchair, described Disney’s updated system and suggested alternatives like queue re-entry as “medically unworkable” and, in some cases, dangerous. They argue that what Disney presents as flexibility has instead created new risks, particularly in queue environments where mobility limitations can become critical.
According to the filing, submitted February 20, the case will now proceed after missing a March 18 mediation window. The complaint centers on the 2024 DAS policy changes, which narrowed eligibility primarily to guests with developmental disabilities such as autism, leaving many guests with physical disabilities without access to the service. Critics have pointed to inconsistent alternatives offered by cast members, including suggestions that have sparked controversy among guests and advocates.
This issue has also surfaced at the corporate level. During The Walt Disney Company’s March 18 shareholder meeting, CEO Josh D’Amaro addressed questions about DAS, emphasizing Disney’s commitment to accessibility while noting the program is shaped in consultation with experts and medical professionals. While he did not commit to restructuring the service, he stated that Disney will continue to evaluate and refine accommodations based on guest feedback.
A shareholder proposal to conduct an independent review of Disney’s disability policies received just 5% support and did not pass. Still, with this complaint now under formal investigation, the conversation around DAS and accessibility in the parks is far from over.
This case could become a key moment in how disability access evolves at Disney parks moving forward, especially as more guests continue to weigh in on how recent changes impact their experiences.
New Figment Bubble Wand Featuring Lights and Sound at Epcot
Just when you thought your park day couldn’t get any more whimsical, Walt Disney World has released the ultimate accessory for fans of everyone’s favorite purple dragon. After a brief tease on social media that sent collectors into a frenzy, the Figment Bubble Wand has officially landed at EPCOT.
You can find this magical new item at theCreations Shop, but you’ll want to act fast—Figment merchandise is notorious for disappearing faster than a burst of imagination!
Retailing for $44.99, this isn’t your average bubble wand. It is a fully sculpted, 3D figure of Figment that captures his playful spirit perfectly.
The Design: Figment is depicted with a wide, joyful grin. In his left hand, he holds a black pot with a shimmering gold interior, designed to look like a pot of gold.
Glowing Features: When toggled on, Figment’s right hand—which is shaped like a yellow light bulb—glows brightly. The “pot of gold” also illuminates, making this a spectacular accessory for nighttime spectaculars like Luminous The Symphony of Us.
Interactive Magic: The wand features a small light beneath the bubble port to illuminate the bubbles as they float away. It also includes exclusive sound effects that can be activated with a switch, bringing the character to life.
Easy Carry: The wand comes with a plain purple strap, making it easy to loop around your wrist or hang from a stroller while you navigate World Celebration.
We spotted this must-have souvenir at the Creations Shop in EPCOT. While Disney hasn’t confirmed if it will roll out to other locations like ImageWorks, Creations is currently the go-to spot for this release.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Journey into Imagination or just looking for the perfect “light-up” toy for the kids, this bubble wand is a standout piece of 2026 merchandise.
A Must-Have for Collectors
With the recent popularity of Figment-themed snacks and apparel, this bubble wand is expected to be a top seller this spring. If you’re heading to EPCOT soon, make the Creations Shop your first stop to ensure you don’t miss out on this “one little spark” of fun!
Go Behind the Scenes with the Imagineers Behind Bluey’s Best Day Ever
Congratulations to the talented team of Imagineers who transformed the world of the Heeler family into a vibrant celebration at the Fantasyland Theatre! Join us as we go behind the scenes to meet the creative minds responsible for bringing “Bluey’s Best Day Ever!” to life on stage.
Creating a full-scale production is a massive undertaking, and the talented team behind “Bluey’s Best Day Ever!”recently received well-deserved recognition on the official Walt Disney Imagineering Instagram page.
The leadership team featured includes Jenn (Executive Producer), along with Jason and Lindsey, who were instrumental in bringing the theater space to life. On the technical and creative front:
Chelsea handled the musical arrangements for the production.
Hannah pioneered a new method for digitally printing on a specialized cotton blend, significantly improving costume breathability for the performers.
Linda (Show Director) and Susan (Creative Director) guided the artistic vision alongside a dedicated team of choreographers.
Scott crafted the show’s script and jokes, while Jesse served as the Audio Systems Designer.
Rounding out the group are the Stage Management Team and the entire costuming department, all of whom played a vital role in making this celebration at the Fantasyland Theatre a reality.
“Bluey’s Best Day Ever!” officially made its debut on March 22, transforming the theater into a vibrant recreation of Bluey’s school grounds. The space now hosts a lively fair filled with games and iconic music straight from the series. Throughout the day, Bluey and her sister Bingo take the stage alongside a talented troupe of comedic actors and musicians for a high-energy live performance.
To keep the experience fresh, two rotating versions of the show are performed at Disneyland:
Show 1: Features appearances by The Grannies and Unicorse.
Show 2: Features Chattermax and Unicorse.
In addition to the stage show, guests can enjoy a variety of Bluey-themed treats, an exclusive sipper, and new merchandise. Marking this special occasion, Disney Jr. also released a brand-new animated short that brings the worlds of Mickey and Friends and the Heeler family together for the first time!
Walking Olaf Animatronic Set to Debut in Parks and at Sea
Disney has officially confirmed that the innovative, free-roaming Olaf animatronic—first seen at Disneyland Paris—is destined for U.S. theme parks and the Disney Cruise Line fleet. This groundbreaking technology will allow the beloved snowman to walk, talk, and interact with guests in entirely new ways, bringing the magic of Frozen to life both on land and at sea.
This cutting-edge animatronic represents the most realistic iteration of the Frozen star ever created, capable of walking entirely on its own. While he originally debuted with the opening of World of Frozen at Paris’ Disney Adventure World, where he stars in the A Celebration in Arendelle boat show, this high-tech snowman is now preparing to bring his lifelike personality to even more guests across the globe.
While Olaf made several appearances during initial media previews, he isn’t quite ready for daily meet-and-greets just yet—especially after a viral clip captured the animatronic collapsing mid-performance. However, Walt Disney Imagineering remains undeterred by these early mechanical hurdles.
In fact, an Olaf robot is already bound for World of Frozen at Hong Kong Disneyland, where he is expected to join the lineup for a boat show. Imagineers shared with Fast Company that the ultimate goal is a fully interactive meet-and-greet experience. Kyle Laughlin, SVP of Walt Disney Imagineering R&D, noted that the team is working toward a “North Star” goal: ensuring guests can finally enjoy that iconic, “huggable moment” with everyone’s favorite snowman.
One of the primary challenges for a potential Olaf meet-and-greet is managing the character’s immense popularity. Kyle Laughlin, SVP of Walt Disney Imagineering R&D, noted that both security and operational logistics are top priorities when introducing a roaming or stationary version of the snowman. “He’s so popular that we have to ensure… that we can ease him into the park,” Laughlin explained, confirming that guests will “absolutely see him roaming the park in the future.”
While a specific timeline has not yet been established, Disney’s goal is a global rollout. This means the innovative Olaf robot is destined for Disney Cruise Line ships and Disney parks worldwide, including Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. Laughlin emphasized that these robots are being built for long-term operations to ensure the beloved character can eventually be found everywhere.
The development of the walking Olaf is a natural evolution of the technology behind the BDX droids, which have already made special appearances across various Disney parks and cruise ships. Interestingly, the project originally began as a concept for StellaLou, Duffy’s ballerina friend; Imagineers initially wanted a robot capable of a full pirouette before pivoting to Olaf to maximize his global appeal.
This sophisticated robotic technology is set to revolutionize future attraction animatronics. While most figures are currently stationary or rely on moving floors, Disney is pushing the boundaries of mobility—much like the Walt Disney animatronic introduced last year that successfully takes its own steps.
“Our robotic and animatronic characters are beginning to merge into a single, seamless experience,” noted Kyle Laughlin. This evolution suggests a future where the lines between pre-programmed figures and free-roaming robots completely disappear.
Looking ahead, Fast Company teased that more walking robots are already on the horizon. With the upcoming Lion King expansion at Disney Adventure World, there is high anticipation for the potential debut of robotic lions. Laughlin also hinted at another fan-favorite Frozen friend, mentioning the possibility of a robotic Sven joining the lineup.
Are you excited to see Olaf come to more Disney parks?
Face Forward: TSA PreCheck Touchless ID Arriving at Orlando International Airport This Spring
Your next trip to the Most Magical Place on Earth might start with a little less digging through your bag and a lot more… just showing your face. Transportation Security Administration is rolling out TSA PreCheck Touchless ID to Orlando International Airport this spring, bringing a faster, more futuristic security experience to Central Florida travelers.
This new system uses facial recognition technology to verify your identity, meaning eligible travelers can move through TSA PreCheck lanes without pulling out a boarding pass or passport. Instead, a quick scan matches your face to your stored travel information, helping speed up the process while keeping security tight.
To use Touchless ID, travelers must already be enrolled in TSA PreCheck, have a participating airline profile, and upload valid passport details. Participating airlines include Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Alaska Airlines. Once opted in, you can glide through security like you just unlocked a Lightning Lane for the airport.
Orlando is part of a larger rollout to 65 airports nationwide by Spring 2026, with additional locations like Los Angeles International Airport also joining in. For theme park travelers, this could mean less time in line at the airport and more time racing to rope drop or grabbing that first snack of the day.
Between this update and ongoing expansions at MCO, including new parking garages and transportation changes, getting to your Disney or Universal vacation is becoming smoother than ever. The only question left… are you ready to let your face do the talking?
Monsters, Inc. Land Construction Roars Ahead with New Permits Filed at Hollywood Studios
Things are getting monstrously exciting at Disney’s Hollywood Studios as Walt Disney Imagineering continues bringing Monstropolis to life. Four new permits have just been filed to install set elements throughout the former Muppets Courtyard, signaling that this transformation is shifting from demolition to full-on theming magic.
The permits, assigned to frequent Disney collaborator Icarus Exhibits Inc., cover several key locations including the former homes of MuppetVision 3D, Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano, PizzeRizzo, and the now-demolished Stage 1 Company Store. Each space is being reimagined as part of the bustling monster city we first fell in love with in Monsters, Inc..
The former MuppetVision theater is expected to become “The Glob Theater,” a clever wink to Shakespeare with a monster-sized twist. While Disney has not confirmed the exact show, the marquee teasing “Meet Monstropolis” hints at a brand-new experience waiting behind those doors. Over at Mama Melrose’s, the transformation is shaping up to be one of the most eye-catching, with the restaurant becoming Harryhausen’s, complete with oversized chopsticks holding an eyeball right on the façade.
Meanwhile, PizzeRizzo is slated to become a new quick-service dining location, though details are still under wraps. The biggest physical change may be where Stage 1 Company Store once stood, as that space has been cleared to create a wider walkway leading guests toward the upcoming Monsters, Inc. roller coaster. Concept art suggests a small pavilion may rise here, potentially tied to the newly filed permits.
While Disney has yet to announce an official opening timeline, these filings are a clear sign that Monstropolis is stepping out of the concept art and into reality. If you listen closely, you can almost hear the distant hum of laughter-powered energy already.
Adorable Alert: Red River Hog Piglets Born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, there’s some seriously squeal-worthy news that just made the savanna a whole lot cuter. Three red river hog piglets have been born backstage, adding a fresh dose of tiny hooves and curious snouts to the wildlife family.
Native to West and Central Africa, red river hogs are known for their striking reddish coats, dramatic facial markings, and those unmistakable tufted ears that look like they belong in a Disney concept sketch. According to Dr. Mark Penning, who shared the first photos, the newborns are already bonding with mom and sticking close as they begin their earliest adventures behind the scenes.
While guests won’t be able to spot these little ones just yet, the plan is for them to eventually join the rest of the red river hog group onstage, where they’ll undoubtedly become a fan-favorite sight for visitors exploring the resort’s savannas. Disney has welcomed red river hog piglets in previous years as well, continuing its ongoing conservation and animal care efforts.
Between their tiny stripes and playful energy, these piglets are basically nature’s version of Imagineering magic in motion. Keep your eyes peeled on future visits… because once they debut, they’re going to hog all the attention.
Ashland High School Marching Band Instruments Stolen
What was supposed to be the “performance of a lifetime” turned into a nightmare for the students of the Ashland High School Marching Band. After four years of tireless fundraising and meticulous planning, the band from Ashland, Ohio, arrived in Orlando last week to fulfill their dream of marching down Main Street, U.S.A. in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom.
However, on the morning of Sunday, March 29, the students woke up to a devastating discovery at their International Drive hotel: their locked equipment trailer had been broken into, and thousands of dollars worth of instruments were missing.
The theft stripped the ensemble of essential instruments, including clarinets, trumpets, trombones, and saxophones. While the monetary value is staggering, the emotional toll on the students is far greater. For many of these young musicians, the instruments were not just tools—they were cherished family heirlooms.
“They are handed down to them from family members; they’re gifts,” band mom Brigitte Klotzek told FOX 35. “They have a lot of memories with them. So it’s a little bit more than just an instrument for a lot of the kids.”
In one particularly heartbreaking instance, a student lost an instrument that had been a gift from their father shortly before he passed away. As Klotzek noted, “This is something that cannot be really replaced.”
Despite the shock and the “nightmare” start to their trip, the Ashland High School Marching Band refused to let the thieves steal their moment. Demonstrating incredible resilience, the group was able to secure rented equipment on short notice.
Determined to honor the four years of hard work it took to get to Florida, the band successfully moved forward with their scheduled performance. They proudly marched through the Magic Kingdom, proving that while their physical instruments may have been taken, their spirit and dedication remained fully intact.
Ongoing Investigation
The Orlando Police Department is currently looking into the theft at the I-Drive hotel. Details are limited, but the community is being asked to keep an eye out for high-end woodwind and brass instruments appearing on resale markets.
For a group of students who worked since 2022 to reach this stage, the trip will be remembered for both a cruel injustice and the triumphant standing ovation they earned on the world’s most famous parade route.
If you would like to donate, they have a GoFundMe set up to help get their instruments back!
WIZARDS BEYOND WAVERLY PLACE - “Pilot” (Disney/Eric McCandless)
ALKAIO THIELE, JANICE LEANN BROWN, SELENA GOMEZ, MAX MATENKO, MIMI GIANOPULOS, DAVID HENRIE
Wizards Beyond Waverly Place Returns to Disney Channel
The Russo family magic isn’t over just yet! Disney has officially announced that “Wizards Beyond Waverly Place” will return for a massive four-part event this summer on Disney+, Disney Channel, and Disney Channel On Demand.
Production is set to begin next week on this final chapter, which promises to be a high-stakes conclusion for both original fans and the new generation of viewers.
In a move that has fans buzzing, executive producer and guest star Selena Gomez is set to make her directorial debut with the premiere episode of this event. Gomez, who catapulted to stardom as Alex Russo in the original 2007 series, will also reprise her iconic role on-screen for multiple episodes.
The plot for this four-part finale picks up after the heart-wrenching cliffhanger of Season 2. The Mission: Billie is still reeling from the loss of Alex. She soon discovers that the only way to rescue her mentor is to reunite with her long-lost father.
The Power of Family: To defeat the ancient evil plaguing them, the Russo family must band together and combine their powers in a way they never have before.
Since its launch, the continuation of the Emmy® Award-winning franchise has been a certified hit. The series has already:
Amassed over 101 million views on the Disney Channel YouTube channel.
Ranked as a top five title across key demographics, including kids (6–11), teens (12–17), and young adults (18–24).
The Magic Makers
The event sees the return of the full series regular cast:
David Henrie as Justin Russo
Janice LeAnn Brown as Billie
Alkaio Thiele as Roman Russo
Max Matenko as Milo Russo
Taylor Cora as Winter
Mimi Gianopulos as Giada Russo
The project is led by writers and executive producers Jed Elinoff and Scott Thomas, alongside executive producers Gary Marsh, Jonas Agin, Rick Williams, and the original duo, Gomez and Henrie.
Catch Up Before the Finale
If you need to refresh your memory on the spells and secrets of the first two seasons, all episodes of “Wizards Beyond Waverly Place” are currently streaming on Disney+. Prepare for the wands to come out one last time—this summer is going to be legendary!
Episodes of Sofia the First Royal Magic Stream May 26 on Disney Plus
The Enchancia royal family is growing! Disney has officially announced that “Sofia the First: Royal Magic,”a brand-new sequel series to the Emmy® Award-winning original, will make its grand debut this spring.
Fans can catch the linear premiere on Monday, May 25, 2026, at 7:00 a.m. EDT/PDT on Disney Jr. and Disney Jr. on Demand. For those who prefer to binge their royal adventures, the first eight episodes will be available to stream on Disney+ the very next day, Tuesday, May 26
The new series follows Sofia as she levels up her training by attending The Charmswell School for Royal Magic. While there, she makes a life-changing discovery: she is actually the most magical princess in the realm. Between making new friends and navigating the halls of her new school, Sofia must learn to master her burgeoning powers.
One of the most exciting updates for fans is the list of legendary Disney Princesses set to mentor Sofia. The lineup includes Rapunzel, Jasmine, Cinderella, Aurora, and Elena of Avalor.
Most notably, the series will feature a historic first: Moana will interact with Sofia for the very first time!Auli‘i Cravalho reprises her role as the Wayfinder, joining Ariel Winter, who returns to voice the iconic title role of Sofia.
Meet the Cast: Old Friends and New Faces
The series balances nostalgia with fresh energy through a star-studded cast:
Returning Favorites: Wayne Brady (Clover), Tim Gunn (Baileywick), Eric Stonestreet (Minimus), Sara Ramirez (Queen Miranda), Travis Willingham (King Roland), Darcy Rose Byrnes (Amber), and Jess Harnell (Cedric).
The New Class: Nate Torrence (Pepper), Mela Pietropaolo (Layla), Kai Harris (Zane), and Aaliyah Magcasi (Camila).
Special Guests: Beanie Feldstein, Yvette Nicole Brown, James Monroe Iglehart, and Tony Hale.
Music and Merchandise
If you’ve had the original theme song stuck in your head for a decade, get ready for a refresh. The new “Royal Magic” theme song is released today, April 3, 2026, with the full soundtrack following on May 29.
For the collectors:
Walmart Exclusive: A brand-new line of toys and role-play items from Just Play will launch exclusively at Walmart in the U.S. later this summer.
Disney Parks: Sofia will be a key part of Walt Disney World’s “Cool KIDS’ SUMMER” and the “Disney Jr. Let’s Play! Party” returning to Disneyland Resort this August.
With over 3 billion hours watched of the original series, “Royal Magic” is poised to be the next big streaming hit for families. Mark your calendars for May 26!
