Demolition Continues on Rip Ride Rocket at Universal Orlando

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September 18, 2025

Demolition Continues on Rip Ride Rocket at Universal Orlando

Rip Ride Rockit Demolition Speeds Ahead at Universal Studios Florida

The sound of jackhammers and cranes has officially replaced the pounding bass of Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit at Universal Studios Florida. Since our last update, demolition has picked up major steam, with more sections of the coaster track now gone and work pushing directly into the station itself.

Walking into the park, it’s impossible to miss the sight of heavy machinery dominating the skyline. A massive crane looms over the site, joined by a large auger drill helping to break up foundations and prepare the land for whatever thrills are coming next. The colorful coaster that once cut through the Universal Studios skyline is quickly becoming a memory, with demolition crews working at a rapid pace.

So far, Universal has kept quiet on what will replace Rip Ride Rockit. However, permits filed earlier this year point to another roller coaster being built on the site. Whether it will be a high-speed launch coaster, a family-friendly adventure, or something brand-new entirely remains a mystery.

Given how quickly demolition is progressing, it seems only a matter of time before crews shift gears from tearing down to building up. The next big thrill for Universal Studios Florida is on its way, and all eyes are on this central plot of land to see what surprises the resort has in store.

Guest Star Revealed for The Muppet Show Revival Special Coming for Disney+

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Chris B

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September 18, 2025

Guest Star Revealed for The Muppet Show Revival Special Coming for Disney+

The Muppets Are Back! Disney+ Announces 2026 Revival Special

It’s time to play the music, it’s time to light the lights — The Muppets are returning to the small screen in a brand-new Disney+ revival special set for 2026.

Disney confirmed that the one-off event, simply titled The Muppet Show, will bring Kermit, Miss Piggy, Fozzie, Gonzo, and the whole gang back to the Muppet Theatre to put on a chaotic, heartwarming, and hilarious variety show. While this special isn’t a full series revival (at least not yet), Variety reports it could serve as a “backdoor pilot” to test the waters for a larger comeback.

The timing is no accident. The special will premiere in 2026 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Jim Henson’s original The Muppet Show, which first aired in 1976 and ran until 1981. And in true Muppet fashion, they’re not coming alone — pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter has been announced as the guest star, and she’s also listed as an executive producer on the project.

The Muppets will once again be brought to life by an all-star lineup of veteran performers, including Bill Barretta, Dave Goelz, Eric Jacobson, Peter Linz, David Rudman, and Matt Vogel. Goelz, a living legend in the Muppet world, has performed with the troupe for over 50 years and was part of the original series, originating beloved characters like Gonzo and Dr. Bunsen Honeydew.

Behind the camera, the creative team is stacked with talent. Albertina Rizzo will write and executive produce, with Alex Timbers (known for his Broadway work) directing. Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg, James Weaver, and Alex McAtee from Point Grey Pictures are also executive producers, alongside Carpenter. The special is being produced by 20th Television, Disney Branded Television, The Muppets Studio, and Point Grey.

This announcement marks the latest in Disney’s ongoing efforts to spotlight the Muppets. In recent years, fans have enjoyed Muppets Haunted Mansion (2021), Muppets Now (2020), and The Muppets Mayhem (2023) on Disney+, though some of these projects were short-lived despite positive fan response. The last theatrical Muppet movie was Muppets Most Wanted in 2014.

Walt Disney World Works with Local Nonprofits to End Hunger in Central Florida

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Chris B

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September 18, 2025

Walt Disney World Works with Local Nonprofits to End Hunger in Central Florida

Disney Takes Big Steps to Fight Hunger During Hunger Action Month

September is Hunger Action Month, and Walt Disney World cast members are putting real magic behind the movement to help fight food insecurity across Central Florida. For decades, Walt Disney World has supported nonprofits and community leaders with programs, grants, and volunteer power, and 2025 is no different.

One of Disney’s longest-running efforts is the Disney Harvest Program, created in partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida back in 1991. The initiative collects surplus food from across Walt Disney World Resort and distributes it to local nonprofits like food pantries and shelters. Last year alone, Disney Harvest donated more than 722,000 pounds of food — the equivalent of 600,000 meals.

On top of food donations, Disney has provided major financial support. In 2024, the company donated $150,000 to Second Harvest, followed by an additional $500,000 in hurricane relief after Hurricane Milton. Cast Members also made an impact through VoluntEARS Grants and matching gifts, helping contribute an additional $115,000 last year.

The company’s reach extends even further through the Disney Grant program. This year, $300,000 of a total $500,000 in Disney Grants went directly toward hunger-related initiatives, benefiting:

Valencia College’s VCentials Pantry – Supporting over 2,500 students with free access to healthy food so they can focus on their education.
United Against Poverty – Relaunching its mobile food pantry to bring low-cost groceries to families in areas that need them most, serving over 1,200 families.
Osceola Council on Aging – Expanding emergency and mobile food pantry programs that provide nearly 14,000 nutritious meals to families of all ages.

Disney leaders say it’s about more than just food. “Access to safe, healthy and affordable food is a critical need facing the Central Florida community,” said Tajiana Ancora-Brown, Director of External Affairs at Walt Disney World. “Every day we’re working alongside nonprofit organizations and are focused on supporting this important cause in ways that only Disney can.”

And the work doesn’t stop in September. In October, Disney VoluntEARS will join CANstruction Orlando, building a Disney character entirely out of canned goods before donating them to Second Harvest. Then in November, Disney chefs and Cast Members will cook and serve 1,000 Thanksgiving meals at the Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida.

From hurricane relief to food drives to everyday support, Disney continues to play a major role in tackling hunger across Florida. This Hunger Action Month, the magic isn’t just in the parks — it’s on the tables of families in need.

ABC Affiliates to Replace ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ for Charlie Kirk Tribute Special Following Controversial Remarks

By

Chip

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September 18, 2025

ABC Affiliates to Preempt ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ for Tribute Special Following Controversial Remarks

Dozens of ABC affiliate stations will air a tribute special in remembrance of Charlie Kirk in place of Jimmy Kimmel Live! on Friday. This decision, led by Sinclair Broadcast Group and Nexstar Media Group, follows Disney’s indefinite suspension of the show after the host made controversial remarks about the assassination of the conservative activist.

Sinclair, which operates 30 ABC affiliates, announced its plans to air the special shortly after Disney’s decision. “Mr. Kimmel’s remarks were inappropriate and deeply insensitive at a critical moment for our country,” said Sinclair Vice Chairman Jason Smith in a statement. The company also called for Jimmy Kimmel to issue a direct apology and make a personal donation to the Kirk family and Turning Point USA, a group founded by Kirk. Smith added that Sinclair would not reinstate the show until appropriate steps are taken to uphold broadcast standards.

Nexstar, another major owner of ABC affiliates, had also announced its decision to preempt the program. “Mr. Kimmel’s comments about the death of Mr. Kirk are offensive and insensitive… and we do not believe they reflect the spectrum of opinions, views, or values of the local communities,” said Andrew Alford, President of Nexstar’s Broadcasting Division. He stated that preempting the show was “in an effort to let cooler heads prevail.”

The controversy stems from comments Kimmel made in a monologue, where he accused conservatives of “desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them.” While some of Kimmel’s defenders have suggested his remarks were taken out of context, Disney ultimately decided to suspend the program before Kimmel could address the backlash on his show.

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Guest Dies After Riding Stardust Racers at Universal’s Epic Universe

By

Chip

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September 18, 2025

Guest Dies After Riding Coaster at Universal's Epic Universe

Guest Found Unresponsive Following Ride on Stardust Racers at Epic Universe

A guest at Epic Universe has died following a ride on the park’s dual rollercoaster, Stardust Racers, late Wednesday. The incident is currently under investigation by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.

According to a statement from Universal, the guest was found unresponsive after the ride and was transported to the hospital, where they later died.

In response to the tragic event, a Universal spokesperson released the following statement: “We are cooperating with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office following a tragic event involving a guest at Epic Universe on Wednesday night. The guest became unresponsive after riding Stardust Racers and was transported to the hospital, where the guest later died. We are devastated by this event and extend our sincerest sympathies to the guest’s loved ones. We are fully committed to cooperating with this ongoing investigation. The attraction remains closed.”

Universal Orlando Shares First Look at Stardust Racers Coaster Coming to Epic Universe 2

There is no word on whether the coaster will reopen on Thursday.

Disney Destiny Theater Cast Arrives in Germany to Prepare for Stage Shows

By

Sara

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September 17, 2025

Disney Destiny Cast Heads to Germany for Show Preparations

The Disney Destiny’s inaugural cast has arrived in Papenburg, Germany! The performers got their first look at the ship’s Walt Disney Theatre, where they’ll spend the next few weeks rehearsing for three Broadway-style shows. The lineup includes fan favorites “Disney Seas the Adventure” and “Frozen, A Musical Spectacular,” as well as the brand-new “Disney Hercules.”

Before going the distance to Germany, the cast spent 11 weeks at Disney Cruise Line’s entertainment facility in Toronto, Canada, learning dialogue, choreography, and other show material for “Disney Hercules.” They prepared high-energy numbers, like “Zero to Hero,” using rehearsal puppets, sample costume pieces, and scenic elements similar to those on the Walt Disney Theatre stage.

As the cast steps into the spotlight at the Walt Disney Theatre, they will begin incorporating technical elements into their rehearsals, including costumes, sets, and state-of-the-art puppetry, to help bring the Walt Disney Animation Studios film to the stage like never before.

Central Florida Zoo to host farewell party for PJ on World Rhino Day

By

Catherine

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September 17, 2025

Central Florida Zoo to Host Farewell Party for PJ the Rhino

The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens is inviting the public to a special farewell party for PJ, a beloved greater one-horned rhinoceros who has called the zoo home for 13 years. The celebration, held on World Rhino Day, September 20, will give the community a chance to say goodbye before PJ embarks on his next big adventure.

From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., guests can join in a rhino-sized celebration of PJ’s life and his important new role. The day’s events will include keeper chats, rhino-themed activities, and a table featuring artwork created by PJ himself. Visitors will also have the opportunity to make cards to wish PJ well on his journey.

A New Chapter for PJ and Rhino Conservation

PJ’s move is part of the Species Survival Plan (SSP), a crucial conservation program designed to help endangered animal species thrive. He’s heading to the Buffalo Zoo to become a future breeding male, where he will play a vital role in helping to grow and protect the population of greater one-horned rhinos for generations to come.

In honor of World Rhino Day, the International Rhino Foundation will also be on-site with information and fun activities about all five rhino species.

Silent Auction and Event Details

Guests can view and purchase PJ’s unique painted art pieces at a silent auction. The PJ Farewell Auction is live from September 15 at 9 a.m. and closes on September 20 at 3 p.m.

The event is included with general Zoo admission. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens website.

ABC Suspends ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live!’ After Host’s Remarks on Charlie Kirk Assassination

By

Chip

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September 17, 2025

ABC Suspends 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' After Host's Remarks

Late-Night Show Indefinitely Preempted Following Controversial Comments on Charlie Kirk Assassination

ABC has indefinitely suspended the popular late-night show Jimmy Kimmel Live! following controversial remarks made by the host concerning the assassination of Charlie Kirk.

His remark:

“We hit some new lows over the weekend with the MAGA gang desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and doing everything they can to score political points from it,” Kimmel said.

The show will be “preempted indefinitely,” a network spokesperson confirmed, in a move that follows similar actions by major affiliate station groups.

The decision comes shortly after Nexstar, one of the largest owners of local TV stations in the U.S., announced it would preempt the show. According to a report from The Hollywood Reporter, ABC had also been contacted by at least one other station group, suggesting that an affiliate revolt may have influenced the network’s decision.

Andrew Alford, President of Nexstar’s Broadcasting Division, commented on the decision. “Mr. Kimmel’s comments about the death of Mr. Kirk are offensive and insensitive at a critical time in our national political discourse, and we do not believe they reflect the spectrum of opinions, views, or values of the local communities in which we are located,” Alford said. “Continuing to give Mr. Kimmel a broadcast platform… is simply not in the public interest at the current time.”

Federal Communications Commission chair Brendan Carr also weighed in on the controversy. In a statement on Kimmel’s initial comments, Carr said that the remarks “appear to be an action by Jimmy Kimmel to play into the narrative that this was somehow a MAGA or Republican-motivated person.” Carr added that broadcasters have an “obligation to operate in the public interest” and that a failure to “change conduct” could lead to “additional work for the FCC ahead.”

Carr later thanked Nexstar for their decision, stating, “I hope that other broadcasters follow Nexstar’s lead.” The controversy stemmed from Kimmel’s comment that, “We hit some new lows over the weekend with the MAGA gang desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and doing everything they can to score political points from it.”

Judge Signs off on Disney’s $233 Million Wage Theft Settlement

By

Sara

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September 17, 2025

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Federal judge approves Disney’s $233 million wage theft settlement

An Orange County judge has approved a $233 million settlement in a wage theft lawsuit filed by more than 51,000 Disneyland employees. The decision, made on Tuesday, September 16, brings an end to a six-year legal dispute regarding employee pay at the Anaheim theme park.

The OC Register reports that Judge William Claster of the Orange County Superior Court gave final approval to the class-action lawsuit against Disneyland. The lawsuit was based on the theme park’s failure to pay employees in compliance with Anaheim’s “living wage” ordinance.

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“This is the end of the lawsuit,” said Richard McCracken, the lead attorney for the employees. “We believe this is the largest wage class action settlement in California history.”

Final reports on the payments to each class member are due by June 30, 2026. The employees are represented by lawyers from McCracken, Stemerman & Holsberry and Hadsell, Stormer Renick & Dai.

According to McCracken, the average payment for each employee is estimated to be around $3,000. He added that this amount is highly unusual for a class-action lawsuit, saying, “It’s usually a coupon to buy an ice cream.”

A Disney spokesperson stated that the company “cares deeply about our cast members” and is “pleased that this matter is nearing resolution.”

The lawsuit began when Disney claimed it was exempt from Measure L, a “living wage” initiative that was approved by voters in 2018. The measure required any businesses in Anaheim’s resort district receiving city tax subsidies to pay employees at least $15 an hour starting January 1, 2019, with wages increasing annually until 2022.

In 2019, several unions representing Disneyland employees filed a lawsuit. Initially, a judge sided with Disney in 2021, but the unions appealed that decision. In July 2023, a three-judge panel for California’s Fourth Appellate District reversed the lower court’s ruling.

According to a recent court filing, the settlement breaks down like this: $179.6 million will be given to the employees in back pay and retirement contributions. Additionally, $17.5 million in penalties will be paid to the California Labor and Workforce Development Agency, while $35 million will cover attorney fees. The rest of the money will be used for administering the settlement.

Disney Announces New ‘Camp Rock 3’ Movie for Disney+ and Disney Channel

By

Sara

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September 17, 2025

Camp Rock 3 is in the works for Disney+ and Disney Channel

Great news for Camp Rock fans! Disney Branded Television has officially greenlit Camp Rock 3, which will premiere on Disney+ and Disney Channel. Joe, Nick, and Kevin Jonas are set to reprise their iconic roles. The Jonas Brothers and Demi Lovato will also serve as executive producers for the highly anticipated film, which began filming this week in Vancouver.

A new group of talented young actors are joining the Camp Rock cast, including Liamani Segura as Sage, Malachi Barton as Fletch, Lumi Pollack as Rosie, and newcomer Hudson Stone as Desi. Casey Trotter, Brooklynn Pitts, and Ava Jean will also star as Cliff, Callie, and Madison, respectively.

Joe Jonas, Nick Jonas, and Kevin Jonas are all set to return as the members of the band Connect 3. Maria Canals-Barrera will also be reprising her role as Connie, and Sherry Cola joins the franchise as a new character, Lark.

In Camp Rock 3, the story follows the band Connect 3 after they lose the opening act for their reunion tour. They return to their old stomping grounds to find the next big musical act. As the campers compete for this coveted spot, old friendships are tested, and new relationships are formed.

The movie will introduce a new cast of characters, including the ambitious Sage and her brother Desi, cello prodigy Rosie, drummer Cliff, choreographer Callie, influential Madison, and the rebellious Fletch.

“Camp Rock is an important part of the Disney Channel Original Movie legacy,” said Ayo Davis, President of Disney Branded Television. “It has unforgettable music, energetic storytelling, and characters that fans still love. Bringing it back with Kevin, Joe, Nick, and Demi is a full-circle moment, and we can’t wait to reintroduce this world to a new generation.”

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First Look at Ryan Gosling in Star Wars: Starfighter

By

Sara

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September 17, 2025

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Star Wars: Starfighter reveals the first look at Ryan Gosling’s character

From a galaxy far, far away to the Mediterranean Sea, director Shawn Levy has offered fans their first glimpse of Star Wars: Starfighter. The upcoming spin-off stars Ryan Gosling alongside newcomer Flynn Gray.

While the plot is still under wraps, Lucasfilm has confirmed that Starfighter is an original story set in a new Star Warsera. The standalone film focuses on new characters and reportedly takes place about five years after the events of 2019’s Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.

The image shows Gosling and Gray’s characters in disheveled clothes, stranded on a makeshift raft. This scenic and somewhat mundane setting, which director Shawn Levy captioned “Somewhere in the Mediterranean Sea” and tagged as being in Sardinia, Italy, is a major departure from the usual desert or galactic battlefields seen in past Star Wars films like those on Tatooine and Jakku.

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In addition to Gosling and Gray, the film features a star-studded cast that includes Amy Adams, Matt Smith, and Mia Goth. Aaron Pierre, Simon Bird, Jamael Westman, and Daniel Ings will also appear in the movie. The screenplay is written by Jonathan Tropper, and Shawn Levy will produce alongside Lucasfilm president Kathleen Kennedy.

Are you excited for a new Star Wars movie?

Utkarsh Ambudkar and Ginnifer Goodwin Join the Cast of Disney Jr.’s Hit Series ‘Superkitties’

By

Catherine

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September 17, 2025

Utkarsh Ambudkar and Ginnifer Goodwin Join the Cast of Disney Jr.’s Hit Series ‘Superkitties’

Get ready for some glamorous new mischief in the town of Kittydale! Disney Junior’s popular animated series “Superkitties” is adding two familiar voices to its cast for the upcoming third season: Utkarsh Ambudkar and Ginnifer Goodwin.

The duo will be voicing the show’s newest villains, a hilariously clueless and glamorous brother and sister hamster team known as the Glamsters. Ambudkar, known for his role on the CBS comedy “Ghosts,” will voice Champster Glamster, while Goodwin, who famously voiced Judy Hopps in Disney’s “Zootopia” franchise, will play his sister, Pamster Glamster.

The new season of “Superkitties” will feature a “Su-Purr Wild” story arc, which sees the furry heroes venturing into the Kittydale Wild Jungle to team up with their wildcat friend, Willa. The series, which has been a hit with preschoolers since its debut in 2023, has garnered over 6.5 billion minutes watched across streaming and linear platforms.

“I love working with Disney and typically get cast as one of the ‘good guys,’ so playing the villain this time was a refreshing switch-up,” Goodwin told Collider. “But let’s be honest, can we really call Pamster Glamster a villain? She’s way too fabulous for that!”

Ambudkar expressed his excitement about the role, saying, “Getting to play a singing, troublemaking hamster has always been a dream of mine…I love doing voiceover work for animation, and it’s always fun when it’s something my kids can watch and get a good laugh at too.”

The new season of “Superkitties” is set to premiere on Monday, September 22, on Disney Jr. and Disney Channel, with the first six episodes becoming available to stream on Disney+ on October 1. The new season will also be accompanied by a new soundtrack from Walt Disney Records, “Disney Jr. Music: Superkitties Su-Purr Wild Original Soundtrack,” which will be released on Friday, September 19.

Fans can look forward to seeing the Superkitties—Ginny, Sparks, Buddy, and Bitsy—take on their most glamorous foes yet when the new season of “Superkitties” debuts this fall.