Andrew Sutton Departs as Culinary Director of Disneyland Resort

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March 18, 2026

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Culinary Legend Andrew Sutton Steps Down as Disneyland Resort Culinary Director

After a quarter-century defining the flavors of the Disneyland Resort, Andrew Sutton, the culinary director of signature dining, has officially moved on. While Disneyland spokespeople confirmed the news, details regarding the timing and motivation behind the veteran chef’s departure remain undisclosed.

Sutton’s journey with Disney began in April 2000, where he became the creative force behind the resort’s most prestigious kitchens. His influence spanned the award-winning Napa Rose at the Grand Californian Hotel, Carthay Circle at California Adventure, and the exclusive Club 33. In 2017, he reached a new pinnacle of luxury with the debut of 21 Royal, a premier $18,000 dining experience nestled above New Orleans Square.

A Dallas native and graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, Sutton brought a high-caliber pedigree to Anaheim. His pre-Disney career included a notable tenure as executive chef at Auberge du Soleil in Napa Valley and time spent honing his craft alongside legendary chef Dean Fearing at the Mansion on Turtle Creek.

The departure comes amidst a significant restructuring of The Walt Disney Company’s leadership hierarchy.

In early February, the Burbank-based entertainment giant announced that Josh D’Amaro will step into the role of Chief Executive Officer, officially succeeding Bob Iger on March 18. This transition triggered a cascade of executive promotions: on March 10, Disneyland Resort President Thomas Mazloum was elevated to Chairman of Disney Experiences. His former position will be filled by Jill Estorino, the outgoing President of Disney Parks International, who now takes the helm of the Disneyland Resort—overseeing both theme parks, the Downtown Disney District, and the three on-site hotels.

Full Trailer for Hannah Montana’s 20th Anniversary Special Released

By

Catherine

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March 17, 2026

The “Hannah Montana” 20th Anniversary Special Trailer is Finally Here

Get your blonde wigs and sequins ready! Disney+ and Hulu have officially pulled back the curtain on the full trailer for the “Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special,” sparking a massive wave of nostalgia for the generation that grew up with the “Best of Both Worlds.”

The highly anticipated special is set to premiere on Tuesday, March 24, 2026—marking exactly 20 years to the day since the iconic series first debuted on Disney Channel in 2006.

A Nostalgic Journey Down Memory Lane

The trailer opens with a moment fans have dreamed of for over a decade: a modern-day Miley Cyrus donning the signature blonde bangs and stepping onto a Disney soundstage. “Good to be home,” she remarks, as the opening chords of the show’s theme song begin to play.

Billed as a “love letter to fans,” the special is designed to be an immersive retrospective. Key highlights revealed in the trailer include:

The Interview: Miley sits down with Call Her Daddy host Alex Cooper in front of a live studio audience to discuss the show’s meteoric rise and lasting cultural impact.
Recreated Sets: The special features meticulously rebuilt versions of the Stewart family living room and the legendary Hannah Montana revolving closet.
Archival Treasures: Viewers will get an exclusive look at Miley’s personal archival collection, featuring costumes and props that haven’t been seen in years.
Musical Performances: The trailer teases a brand-new musical performance by Cyrus, including a snippet of a re-recorded version of “The Best of Both Worlds” and an emotional rendition of “The Climb.”

Behind the Scenes

The special is a powerhouse production, brought to life by HopeTown Entertainment and Unwell Productions. Ashley Edens serves as the showrunner, while the executive producer roster includes Miley Cyrus herself, Tish Cyrus-Purcell, Alex Cooper, and Matt Kaplan.

The trailer also confirms appearances from familiar faces, including Miley’s parents, Tish and Billy Ray Cyrus, who shares a touching moment with Miley on the recreated set.

“This ‘Hannah-versary’ is my way of celebrating and thanking the fans who’ve stood by me for 20 years,” Cyrus said in a statement. “This show defined a generation, and it feels like home to me.”

Relive the Magic Now

While waiting for the March 24 premiere, fans can jump into the nostalgia early. The “Hannah Montana” Collection is currently available on Disney+, featuring:

All four seasons of the original series.
Hannah Montana: The Movie.
Hannah Montana and Miley Cyrus: The Best of Both Worlds Concert.

The franchise remains a streaming juggernaut, with the catalog recently surpassing half a billion hours streamed globally on Disney+. Whether you were a fan of the music, the fashion, or the secret identity, the 20th-anniversary special promises to prove that Hannah Montana truly is “a part of who I am.”

Walt Disney World Cast Members to Test Refurbished Buzz Lightyear Attraction This Weekend

By

Chris B

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March 17, 2026

Walt Disney World Cast Members to Test Refurbished Buzz Lightyear Attraction This Weekend

To Infinity and Re-Score! Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin Playtests Begin Ahead of April Reopening

Star Command is calling in reinforcements… and this time, it’s Cast Members getting first dibs. Walt Disney World has begun internal playtests for the newly refurbished Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin at Magic Kingdom, giving a select group of Cast Members the chance to test out the attraction’s shiny new upgrades before it officially reopens on April 8, 2026.

Playtests are scheduled to take place from March 21 through March 27, according to an internal Disney Cast Life posting. And based on what we are hearing, this is not just a simple tune-up… this is a full-blown mission upgrade. The biggest change? Handheld blasters. That’s right, Space Rangers will no longer be tethered to their ride vehicles, allowing for far more precise aiming and movement as you blast your way through Emperor Zurg’s forces. Pair that with all-new interactive targets and enhanced scoring systems, and your next ride could finally settle those long-standing “who’s the real Space Ranger?” debates once and for all.

The overhaul doesn’t stop there. The attraction is also debuting brand-new ride vehicles equipped with updated displays, giving riders real-time feedback on their galactic performance. The climactic battle scene has been refreshed to include Buzz himself, and a new on-ride photo will capture both your heroic pose and your score for ultimate bragging rights. Disney has even teased Toy Story 5 Easter eggs hidden throughout the experience, so keep your eyes peeled while you’re busy saving the galaxy.

Outside, the updates continue with enhancements to the attraction’s exterior, including a refreshed sign that nods to the ride system’s roots in the classic If You Had Wings attraction. It’s a clever blend of nostalgia and next-gen gameplay, proving this Tomorrowland staple is getting a serious power-up.

With Cast Members already stepping into the role of test pilots, it won’t be long before guests can join the mission. So start practicing your aim… because when Space Ranger Spin reopens, the competition is going to be more intense than ever.

A Look at the Garden View Lounge Ahead of the March 19th Reopening

By

Chris B

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March 17, 2026

A Look at the Garden View Lounge Ahead of the March th Reopening

First Look Inside Reimagined Garden View Lounge Tea Experience at Disney’s Grand Floridian

The Grand Floridian is pouring a fresh cup of magic this week, and it comes with a delightfully curious twist. Disney has officially reimagined the Garden View Lounge at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, bringing back its beloved afternoon tea experience just in time for a March 19 reopening, now sprinkled with a dash of Alice in Wonderland whimsy.

Stepping inside, the refreshed space feels like a Victorian conservatory dream. Sunlight streams through tall arched windows dressed in charming stained glass featuring delicate birds and greenery, while soft floral patterns and elegant finishes tie everything back to the resort’s signature style. At the center of it all sits a stunning birdcage display that feels like it fluttered straight out of Wonderland itself, setting the tone for an experience that blends refinement with playful storytelling. Even the floors join the tea party, with subtle nods to Alice and friends hidden in the intricate designs, making this a spot where every glance reveals a new detail.

Of course, tea is the star of the show, and Disney has partnered with Twinings to serve up a curated selection of premium blends. Guests can sip everything from classic breakfast teas to more adventurous flavors like blackcurrant and lavender, plus an exclusive citrus-forward Orangery of Lady Grey crafted just for Walt Disney World. For those who prefer their tea with a little extra “Mad Hatter energy,” specialty cocktails like the Mint Tulip and Mar-TEA-ni add a spirited twist to the menu.

And then comes the tower of treats, because no proper tea party is complete without it. Guests will start with warm orange-cranberry scones before diving into a three-tier spread of savory and sweet bites inspired by Wonderland. Think playful creations like the Tweedledee Egg Salad Sandwich and Caterpillar Cucumber Roll on the savory side, followed by whimsical desserts like the Matcha Mad Hatter cake and Flamingo Croquet choux. It is a menu designed to feel as imaginative as it is indulgent.

For longtime Disney fans, the return of afternoon tea at the Grand Floridian is more than just a dining option. It is a tradition reborn with a fresh layer of storytelling. Whether you are a tea connoisseur or just looking for a relaxing break from park hopping, this experience feels like stepping into a storybook where elegance and eccentricity share the same teacup.

New Construction Permit Filed for Tower of Terror in Hollywood Studios

By

Chris B

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March 17, 2026

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Disney Files Permit for Tower of Terror Construction at Hollywood Studios… But Don’t Panic Just Yet

Something is brewing at the Hollywood Tower Hotel, but it may not be the kind that sends you plummeting into the Fifth Dimension… at least not yet. Walt Disney World has officially filed a new construction permit for The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, hinting that some work is on the horizon for the fan-favorite attraction.

New Construction Permit Filed for Tower of Terror in Hollywood Studios

The permit was filed by Disney’s Facility Asset Management team and simply lists “general construction,” with MLC Theming tapped for the project. If that name rings a bell, it’s because they’ve worked their magic across the parks before, handling everything from scenic painting and aging effects to rockwork and façade enhancements. In other words, they’re the folks who help keep Disney attractions looking perfectly “lived-in”… or in this case, deliciously abandoned.

Because this permit comes from Facility Asset Management and not Walt Disney Imagineering, this points toward routine refurbishment rather than any major storyline or ride changes. Think along the lines of refreshing the eerie details, touching up the crumbling grandeur, and making sure every lightning strike and flickering hallway still hits just right. That said, if the work ends up being extensive, there is always the possibility of a temporary closure, though Disney has not announced anything at this time.

For now, your next check-in at the Hollywood Tower Hotel should remain intact… but as any loyal bellhop will tell you, things can change in the blink of an elevator door.

Exclusive D23 Gold Member Sorcerer Mickey Merch at the Disney Store

By

Ana Leal

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March 17, 2026

Exclusive D23 Gold Member Sorcerer Mickey Merch at the Disney Store

If you’re a D23 Gold Member, it’s time to grab your wallet, because the Disney Store just dropped some exclusive heat featuring everyone’s favorite magical intern. We’re talking about the Sorcerer Mickey Mouse Collection, and honestly, it’s giving major master of the mystic arts energy. Whether you’re heading to the parks or just want to flex your membership status at the grocery store, these pieces are designed to stand out.

First up is the D23-Exclusive Gold Member Spirit Jersey, and at $59.99, it’s a total mood. This isn’t just your standard oversized shirt; it features Mickey in his iconic Fantasia robes, ready to cause some fashionable chaos. The real star here is the raised gold lettering, you’ve got “D23” on the front and “Gold Member” stretched across the back. With that signature boxy fit and dropped shoulders, it’s basically a wearable hug that tells everyone you’re part of the inner circle.

If you’re looking for more bang for your buck, the Essentials Collection is a massive win. Also priced at $59.99, this is a three-piece starter pack for your daily adventures. You get:

A sleek crossbody bag, perfect for snacks or spellbooks.
A durable water bottle to keep you hydrated while waiting in those Lightning Lane queues.
A classic chino twill hat to hide that theme park hair.

Every piece features original Sorcerer’s Apprentice art, making it a cohesive set that screams “I have excellent taste and a Gold Membership.”

Since these are D23-Exclusive, you’ll need to be logged into the Disney Store account linked to your membership to snag them before they vanish like one of Mickey’s enchanted brooms.

Credit: Disney Store

The Rapunzel Corona Sun Filigree Necklace is Here to Light Up Your Look

By

Ana Leal

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March 17, 2026

The Rapunzel Corona Sun Filigree Necklace is Here to Light Up Your Look

If you’ve spent your life dreaming from a window or just your office cubicle, it’s time to let your power shine. The Rapunzel Corona Sun Filigree Necklace by Rebecca Hook is the ultimate treat yourself moment for anyone who still gets misty-eyed during I See the Light. This isn’t your average plastic dress-up jewelry; it’s a stunning, grown-up tribute to the kingdom of Corona that looks just as good at a brunch date as it does wandering through Fantasyland.

The craftsmanship here is honestly top-tier. Rebecca Hook has taken the iconic sun emblem and leveled it up with a delicate, airy filigree design that feels vintage and whimsical all at once. It’s plated in 18k yellow gold, giving it a rich, warm glow that perfectly matches Rapunzel’s magical hair. To add that signature “Lost Princess” flair, the center is detailed with purple cubic zirconia, adding a pop of royal color that catches the light every time you move.

Whether you’re heading out on a new adventure or just need a daily reminder to keep chasing your dreams, this piece is a total showstopper. It retails for $150 and is currently available online at the Disney Store. It’s the perfect blend of subtle Disney style and high-end elegance. Plus, it makes a killer gift for the Tangled fan in your life, even if that fan is you.

Credit: Disney Store

New Pink and Blue Mickey Mouse Kitchenware at the Disney Store!

By

Ana Leal

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March 17, 2026

New Pink and Blue Mickey Mouse Kitchenware at the Disney Store!

If you’re looking to add a little extra magic to your morning routine, the Disney Store just dropped two new kitchenware collections that are basically a dream come true. Whether you’re a fan of soft, romantic tones or prefer a cool, calming aesthetic, these new Mickey Mouse Icon sets are the perfect way to bring that theme park feel right into your home. The best part? Everything is sleek, modern, and surprisingly sophisticated, featuring a subtle debossed Mickey icon design that looks great in any kitchen.

For those who lean into the pink aesthetic, the Pink Collection is an absolute must-see. The star of the show has to be the Glass Tumbler Set ($39.99), the translucent pink glass and ridged texture make those little Mickey icons pop in the cutest way. You can pair them with the matching Mickey Mouse Icon Mug ($19.99), which has a gorgeous matte glaze finish.

To round out your table setting, the collection also includes a Dinner Plate ($24.99) and a Bowl ($24.99), both featuring that same contemporary, debossed ring of Mickeys. It’s the perfect vibe for a brunch setup or just making your daily cereal feel a bit more coquette.

If blue is more your speed, the Blue Collection offers the exact same stylish pieces but in a stunning, moody cerulean shade. The Blue Glass Tumbler Set ($39.99) feels incredibly fresh and modern, while the Blue Icon Plate and Bowl ($24.99 each) bring a calm, coastal Disney energy to the dinner table. Even the Mickey Icon Mug ($19.99) feels like a more grounded way to enjoy your morning coffee.

Both collections are available now at the Disney Store, so the only real struggle is deciding if you’re Team Pink, Team Blue, or if you’re going to be like us and just mix and match both!

Credit: Disney Store

New Mickey Mouse Her Universe Collection For A Magical Style!

By

Ana Leal

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March 17, 2026

New Mickey Mouse Her Universe Collection For A Magical Style!

If you’re looking to inject some classic Disney magic into your wardrobe without looking like you’re wearing a costume, the Mickey Mouse Her Universe Collection at the Disney Store is hitting all the right notes. It’s a mix of retro vibes, cozy textures, and that signature Her Universe geek chic flair.

One-Piece Wonders

For those I don’t know what to wear days, the one-pieces are a total lifesaver. Both the Short Overalls ($74.99) and the Romper ($64.99) feature a super fun allover print of Mickey cycling through every possible emotion, from big grins to grumpy pouts. The overalls are made of sturdy cotton twill with a bib pocket, while the romper offers a breezier, loose silhouette with cuffed shorts. Both are basically made for layering over your favorite tee for a summer park day.

Jackets with Main Street Style

If you want to level up your outerwear, the bomber jackets are the stars of the show. The Retro Bomber Jacket ($149.99) is the big investment piece here; it’s got a neutral, vintage-inspired palette that looks incredibly high-end. If you prefer something with a bit more magic, the Mickey Mouse Bomber ($79.99) brings the attitude with checkered sleeves, embroidered details, and a trendy cropped waist. It’s the kind of jacket that makes an outfit feel finished the second you zip it up.

Cardigan Comfort

Her Universe knows we love a good sweater, and they’ve delivered two very different vibes. The Mickey Mouse Icon Sweater Cardigan ($74.99) is all about that quiet luxury feel, it’s a boucle, open-front knit with a subtle jacquard pattern that goes with literally anything. On the flip side, the Checkered Cardigan ($79.99) is for the fans who love an oversized boyfriend fit. It’s bold, it’s woven, and it’s the perfect weight for those chilly evening fireworks shows.

The Ultimate Loungewear

Finally, let’s talk about the staying in aesthetic. The collection features some seriously dreamy plush pieces, including a Short Lounge Set with a white boucle tank and matching icon-patterned shorts. If you’re a fan of the sleepy Mickey look, you can pair the V-Neck Sweater ($69.99) with the matching Wide-Leg Lounge Pants. They feature a jacquard pattern of Mickey catching some Z’s, which is exactly what you’ll want to be doing when you’re wearing fabric this soft.

Credit: Disney Store

Disney Imagineering Robotic Olaf Appears at NVIDIA GTC Ahead of Disneyland Paris Debut

By

Chip

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March 17, 2026

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Walt Disney Imagineering’s Robotic Character Olaf Makes Appearance at NVIDIA GTC

The future of character interactions just took a “cool” step forward. Walt Disney Imagineering’s self-walking, free-roaming Olaf robot made a surprise appearance at NVIDIA GTC, the world’s premier AI conference. Joining NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang on stage, the fan-favorite snowman showcased the incredible technological leaps Imagineers have made before he officially joins the “World of Frozen” at Disneyland Paris later this month.

Disneyland Paris Disney Adventure World World Of Frozen Olaf robotic character in A Celebration in Arendelle Vertical x

Kyle Laughlin, SVP of Research & Development at Walt Disney Imagineering, shared how the team utilized “deep reinforcement learning” to prepare Olaf for his guest-facing debut. Because Olaf is designed with “snowball feet” and moves in non-physical ways, teaching him to walk was a challenge—especially since his role in the “Celebration in Arendelle” show requires him to maintain his balance while performing on a boat in a lagoon.

Through the use of Disney Research’s “Kamino” simulator—a high-powered physics solver—Olaf was able to learn to stand and walk on unstable surfaces in a fraction of the time it would take a human. The simulator runs thousands of parallel environments at once, allowing robotic characters to “practice” and solve physical challenges before they ever step foot in a theme park.

This robotic platform is about more than just one snowman. Imagineering is using these tools to create a new generation of emotive and expressive characters. By significantly reducing the time it takes to develop and train these robots, Disney is paving the way for more “surprising” character encounters at parks and on cruise ships around the globe.

Guests can see Olaf in action for the first time when he debuts at Disneyland Paris on March 29, 2026.

Disney Celebrates Decades of Partnership with Make A Wish and Childrens Hospitals

By

Sara

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March 17, 2026

Disney Marks Decades of Supporting Families and Granting Wishes

For over 100 years, The Walt Disney Company has sparked joy and inspiration through the power of stories, characters, and immersive experiences. This commitment reaches far beyond the screen, driven by a core belief—championed by Disney CEO Bob Iger—that storytelling and creativity, combined with direct action, can create a profound and lasting impact on communities worldwide.

Since 2005, Disney has directed over $4 billion in cash and in-kind donations toward global social responsibility, focusing its impact on three vital pillars: children’s hospitals, wish-granting, and support for veterans and their families. By partnering with world-class organizations like Make-A-Wish®, Starlight Children’s Foundation, and Blue Star Families, Disney continues to foster youth development and community resilience on a global scale.

This commitment to growth also shines internally through programs like the Disney College Program and Disney Aspire, which empower employees to reach their full personal and professional potential. Together, these initiatives honor Disney’s enduring mission to create a meaningful, positive legacy in communities around the world.

In 2018, Disney launched a landmark $100 million global initiative to reimagine the patient experience at children’s hospitals. This mission began at Texas Children’s Hospital, the largest in the U.S., continuing a legacy of care that dates back to 1954 when Walt Disney himself personally supported the hospital’s original fundraising efforts.

Disney’s unique creative spark is also at the heart of these transformations. At Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) in London, Walt Disney Imagineers collaborated with patients to create The Disney Reef, an immersive underwater play space. The magic at GOSH expanded in 2024 with the funding of a fully accessible MediCinema, allowing families to escape into the world of film during their hospital stay.

This commitment to healing extends across the globe:

China: Following the 2016 opening of Shanghai Disney Resort, Disney donated over $3 million (RMB 20 million) to enhance pediatric care.
Impact: Through partnerships with the China Soong Ching Ling Foundation and the Shanghai Charity Foundation, Disney has successfully opened 50 Disney Fun Houses across 41 cities, providing joyful, therapeutic spaces for children in recovery.

As the world’s leading wish-granter for Make-A-Wish, The Walt Disney Company creates magic every single hour of every day. With over 170,000 wishes granted globally for children facing critical illnesses, Disney’s impact is staggering. In the last decade alone, the company has contributed more than $200 million in cash and in-kind support to Make-A-Wish America and International.

But for Disney, it’s about more than just the numbers—it’s about the art of the possible. Disney constantly pushes the boundaries of imagination to redefine what a wish can be, ensuring every experience is as unique and extraordinary as the child dreaming it.

Rock n Roller Coaster Included in Updated Disney World Resort Benefits

By

Sara

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March 17, 2026

Disney Reveals Lightning Lane Tier for Reimagined Muppets Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster officially joins Early Entry and Extended Evening Hours

Guests staying at Disney World Resort hotels can officially look forward to exclusive perks for the newly reimagined Rock n Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets. The attraction has been confirmed for Early Theme Park Entry, allowing on-site guests to join the Electric Mayhem 30 minutes before the general public, as well as Extended Evening Hours for those at Deluxe Resorts.

Another Permit Filed for Muppets Transformation of Rock n Roller Coaster at Hollywood Studios

Guests staying at Walt Disney World Resort hotels will have a major advantage when the highly anticipated Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets debuts this summer. Disney has confirmed that the reimagined attraction will be included in Early Theme Park Entry, allowing all on-site guests to experience the Electric Mayhem’s high-speed race 30 minutes before the general public.

Exclusive Resort Benefits

Extended Evening Hours: For those staying at Disney Deluxe Resorts or Deluxe Villa Resorts, the attraction will also be available during select late-night events. While Hollywood Studios is a rarer addition to the Extended Evening Hours schedule, it will be a must-do perk on the nights it is offered.
Lightning Lane Multi Pass: As expected, the ride will remain a Tier 1 attraction. Resort guests can take advantage of their exclusive 7-day booking window to secure a spot in the Lightning Lane before they even leave home.

Join the Band Early

Whether you’re racing to the studio with Dr. Teeth during the early morning hush or rocking out under the neon lights of Sunset Boulevard at night, these resort perks are the best way to skip the “backstage” standby lines.

Construction Permit Reveals More Details for Reimagining Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster into Muppets Coaster

In this reimagined experience, guests still enter G-Force Records for an exclusive V.I.P. tour—only this time, they’ll find the Electric Mayhem has taken over the studio!

The studio’s new ownership brings a familiar face to the forefront: J.P. Grosse, the real estate tycoon and owner of the Muppet Theatre, has purchased G-Force Records and put his nephew, Scooter, in charge.

The Pre-Show: Guests will be greeted by a brand-new Scooter animatronic acting as the studio manager.
The Crew: The studio is bustling with activity, featuring animatronic penguin audio engineers, while Kermit, Miss Piggy, and the rest of the band appear on screens to keep the session (mostly) on track.

To make it to the Electric Mayhem’s concert on time, guests board “super-stretch” limousines that have been… enhancedby Muppet Labs. As you blast off, the ride’s scenery and California landmarks now feature a signature Muppet twist. Best of all, the high-speed race is synchronized to the Electric Mayhem performing their most iconic hits!