Josh Groban Talks New Film-Inspired Album While Riding the Teacups
Renowned singer and songwriter Josh Groban recently joined the ranks of celebrity guests taking a spin on Disneyland’s Mad Tea Party for the latest installment of the Disney Parks “Teacup Confessions” series.
The Disney Parks YouTube series, which debuts new weekly episodes, invites celebrities to navigate Disney-themed trivia and questions while whirling through Fantasyland on the iconic Mad Tea Party.
In this latest segment, Groban reveals his top Disney Parks picks while celebrating the launch of his new album, CINEMATIC, which officially debuted May 8.
The segment puts Groban in the hot seat with a flurry of Disney trivia, ranging from his all-time favorite soundtrack classic to the Disneyland attraction he considers a “hidden gem.” He even reveals his dream duet partner—a character whose iconic “Gawrsh!” suggests a very clumsy but lovable musical pairing.
As the teacups whirl through Fantasyland, the conversation shifts to Groban’s personal musical journey, covering his very first concert, his vocal warm-up routines, and the aspects of performing he finds most rewarding. The singer also takes a moment between spins to reflect on the heartfelt advice he would offer his younger self.
D23 Gold Members Get Early Access to “The Mandalorian and Grogu”
Prepare for a journey to a galaxy far, far away! D23: The Official Disney Fan Club has announced an exclusive opportunity for Gold Members to be among the first to witness the next chapter of the Star Wars saga on the big screen. Special advance screenings of the highly anticipated film, The Mandalorian and Grogu, are coming to select theaters,and you won’t want to miss your chance to secure a seat.
Directed by Jon Favreau and produced by Kathleen Kennedy and Dave Filoni, The Mandalorian and Grogu marks the return of the legendary duo to theaters. While the rest of the world waits for the official release, D23 Gold Members can enjoy a “first look” experience that celebrates the bond between Din Djarin and his young apprentice.
Screening Details
These exclusive screenings are set to take place in major cities across the country, offering fans a premium cinematic environment to experience the action, heart, and high-stakes adventure that only Star Wars can deliver.
Who: Open exclusively to D23 Gold Members.
What: Advance screenings of The Mandalorian and Grogu before the general public release.
Perks: Attendees often receive special commemorative items—though specifics are usually kept under wraps until the day of the event!
How to Attend
Tickets for D23 Gold Member events are famously limited and tend to disappear faster than a ship jumping to lightspeed. Members will need to reserve their spots through the official D23 website.
Reservation Window: Be sure to check your D23 email notifications for the exact time tickets go on sale.
Requirements: You must have an active Gold Membership and show your digital or physical membership card at the theater.
This film is a monumental moment for the Star Wars franchise, bringing the beloved characters from the hit Disney+ series into the theatrical spotlight. Seeing the vast landscapes of the Outer Rim and the intricate details of Mandalorian armor on an IMAX or premium large-format screen is something fans have been dreaming of since the series first debuted in 2019.
This is the way… to the movies! If you aren’t already a D23 Gold Member, now might be the perfect time to join so you don’t miss out on exclusive premieres like this one.
Are you ready to see Mando and Grogu on the big screen?
Jon Favreau Bringing Oswald the Lucky Rabbit to Disney+
Additional information has finally surfaced regarding the upcoming animated series starring Disney’s original icon, Oswald. This latest update provides the first clear look at the show’s anticipated debut and its official place on the upcoming release calendar.
Jon Favreau has provided an exciting update on the upcoming Oswald the Lucky Rabbit series for Disney+, confirming that The SPA Studios in Spain is handling a significant portion of the animation. While promoting The Mandalorian & Grogu, Favreau revealed he recently visited the studio, noting that the project is slated for a 2027 release. He placed a special emphasis on the show’s aesthetic, proudly stating that the series features “all 2D animation by human artists.”
Although previously described as a live-action/animated hybrid, Favreau’s comments suggest a deep commitment to traditional hand-drawn techniques for Disney’s original star. Favreau is serving as writer and producer for the series, which stars Ravi Cabot-Conyers as the hardworking Jake, Mykal-Michelle Harris as the artistic Jen, and Ryder Allen as their cautious friend, Taylor. Together, this trio of middle schoolers will lead the live-action side of this “beautiful story.”
Oswald the Lucky Rabbit originally debuted in 1927 as a creation of Walt Disney, starring in several early animated shorts before Universal took ownership of the character. Following a historic deal in 2006, Disney reacquired the rights to Oswald, leading to his return through theme park appearances, merchandise, video games, and a special 2D animated short released in 2022.
The full interview and the specific segment regarding the upcoming Oswald series can be viewed in the video below:
Screen-Used Fast & Furious Cars Race Into Orlando Auto Museum at Dezerland Park
Fast & Furious fans now have two more reasons to make a pit stop at Dezerland Park Orlando. Two screen-used vehicles from the blockbuster franchise have officially arrived at the Orlando Auto Museum, including Scott Eastwood’s massive Hummer from Fast X and a Chevrolet Monte Carlo featured in F9.
The newest additions come just ahead of the Fast & Furious franchise’s 25th anniversary this June, giving fans a chance to get up close to pieces of movie history that helped fuel one of Hollywood’s biggest action franchises.
Leading the new arrivals is the unmistakable 2003 Hummer H2 from Fast X, driven by Scott Eastwood’s character in the film. Joining it is a screen-used 1995 Chevrolet Monte Carlo from F9, adding another iconic ride to the museum’s growing Fast & Furious collection.
Dezerland Park says the vehicles are already on display inside the Orlando Auto Museum, which features more than 2,500 vehicles spanning film, television, pop culture, and automotive history. The museum was recently ranked the No. 2 auto museum in the United States by Travel + Leisure.
Todd Larkin, director of marketing for Dezerland Park, said the franchise continues to connect with audiences across generations and that adding screen-used vehicles from recent films gives fans a chance to experience the action up close.
Located on International Drive, Dezerland Park Orlando features more than 850,000 square feet of indoor attractions, dining, entertainment, and event space, making it one of Central Florida’s largest indoor entertainment destinations.
For Fast & Furious fans, this latest addition feels like the perfect excuse to shift into high gear and head to I-Drive.
NSYNC’s Joey Fatone Bringing Fat One’s Hot Dogs & Italian Ice to Universal CityWalk
Universal CityWalk is about to get a little more *NSYNC. Joey Fatone’s popular Fat One’s Hot Dogs & Italian Ice is officially heading to Universal Orlando Resort, replacing Hot Dog Hall of Fame later this summer.
The new location will bring Joey Fatone’s over-the-top hot dog creations and sweet Italian ice treats right into the heart of CityWalk, giving guests another quick-service stop to add to their snack rotation. Hot Dog Hall of Fame is expected to close in July, though Universal has not yet announced an official opening date for Fat One’s.
The concept is owned by the former *NSYNC star and his manager Joe Mulvihill. Orlando locals may already recognize the brand from its existing food truck, which has popped up around Central Florida serving jumbo all-beef hot dogs piled high with creative toppings.
Some signature menu items from the current Fat One’s lineup include “The Fat One,” a jumbo foot-long dog with classic toppings, “The Classic New Yorker” with Sabrett onion sauce, “The Angelo” topped with whiskey-infused bacon onion jam and jalapeño, and “The Big Guy,” loaded with pulled pork BBQ and crunchy slaw.
Italian ice is also expected to be part of the menu, making this new CityWalk addition feel like the perfect combo of theme park comfort food and Florida summer survival kit.
Universal has been making several major dining changes around the resort lately, and this latest addition brings a little boy band flavor to the lineup. Honestly, replacing one hot dog spot with another could have felt routine, but attaching Joey Fatone’s name to it gives the location instant “bye bye bye diet plans” energy.
Annual Passholder Reservations Sold Out for Hollywood Studios on Opening Day of New Mandalorian Smugglers Run Mission
The Force is definitely strong with this one. Walt Disney World Annual Passholder reservations for Disney’s Hollywood Studios are now completely booked for May 22, 2026, the debut day of the brand-new Mandalorian and Grogu mission coming to Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run.
The updated adventure launches the same day Lucasfilm’s “The Mandalorian and Grogu” hits theaters, and it looks like Passholders are racing to Batuu faster than the Kessel Run. Reservations for Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom are still available for May 22, but Hollywood Studios has officially reached Passholder capacity.
Guests who are unable to secure a Hollywood Studios reservation could still attempt to Park Hop later in the day if the park remains open for hopping, though massive crowds and long wait times are expected around Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
Disney recently shared the first look at the new Smugglers Run mission, along with an updated attraction poster and changes to the ride scoring system. The new adventure will allow guests to fly alongside Din Djarin and Grogu aboard the Millennium Falcon in a fresh storyline inspired by the hit Disney+ series and upcoming film.
The new mission opens simultaneously at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort on May 22, turning Galaxy’s Edge into ground zero for Star Wars fans ready to punch it into hyperspace.
Delta Employee Dies After Ground Incident at Orlando International Airport
A Delta Air Lines employee has died following a tragic ground incident at Orlando International Airport late Thursday night.
According to officials, the incident happened shortly before 11 p.m. on May 7 near Gate 78. The Federal Aviation Administration reported that a tug, a vehicle used to move aircraft, struck a jet bridge next to a plane with passengers on board. The Ninth Circuit Medical Examiner’s Office later determined the employee’s death was accidental and caused by multiple blunt impact injuries.
Passengers aboard Delta Flight 2593 were escorted off the aircraft using rear airstairs and taken down to the tarmac as emergency crews responded. Other Delta flights arriving in the area were delayed while first responders and airport personnel handled the scene.
Delta Air Lines said the company is heartbroken over the loss of a team member and is focused on supporting the employee’s family and the Orlando team during this difficult time. The airline also said it is working with local authorities as a full investigation gets underway.
The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority also shared condolences, saying the MCO community is deeply saddened by the loss of an airport staff member.
Authorities have not released the employee’s name pending confirmation of next of kin notification. Orlando police declined to comment on the ongoing death investigation.
ABC Alleges Free Speech Violations Under Trump Administration
In a recent filing with the Federal Communications Commission, ABC formally accused the Trump administration of infringing upon its First Amendment rights. The network claims that a specific regulatory action targeting its talk show, The View, constitutes a violation of free speech protections.
In its formal filing, the Disney-owned network condemned the federal investigation as a “chilling” threat to First Amendment freedoms. The dispute centers on whether The View violated “equal-time” regulations, which mandate that broadcast stations provide equivalent airtime to opposing political candidates.
This move marks Disney’s most aggressive legal challenge against the administration since President Trump’s return to the White House, amid his escalating criticism of broadcast networks’ televised content.
The conflict began in February when the FCC launched an inquiry into an appearance by James Talarico, then a candidate for the Democratic U.S. Senate nomination in Texas. At the time, FCC Chairman Brendan Carr—a Trump appointee—confirmed that an “enforcement action” was officially underway.
ABC’s rebuttal rests on a decades-old legal precedent:
The Exemption: ABC maintains that The View operates under an equal-time exemption granted over twenty years ago.
“Bona Fide” Status: The network argues it is undisputed that the program qualifies as a “bona fide news” show.
The Legal Result: Under this classification, the show is legally exempt from the requirement to provide equal time to rival candidates.
Responding to the network’s claims, the FCC issued a statement defending the regulation, noting that the “equal time law encourages more speech and empowers voters.” The commission confirmed it would officially review Disney’s claim that The View qualifies as a “bona fide news program” and is therefore exempt from standard political requirements.
The legal challenge was specifically registered on behalf of KTRK-TV, ABC’s owned-and-operated station in Houston. According to ABC’s legal team, the Houston station was directed to submit a formal request to determine whether The View still meets the criteria for its long-standing exemption.
In its 52-page petition, ABC condemned the FCC’s order as an unprecedented overreach that threatens decades of legal precedent. The network argued that personal or political dislike of the show’s content—notably the frequent criticisms of President Trump by co-hosts Whoopi Goldberg and Joy Behar—cannot justify regulatory retaliation.
ABC accused the FCC of viewpoint discrimination, highlighting a sharp disparity in enforcement:
Targeted Inquiries: The FCC is investigating The View while ignoring similar programming from conservative hosts like Mark Levin and Glenn Beck.
License Threats: The petition follows the FCC’s “unusual” early review of eight ABC broadcast licenses, including those in New York and Los Angeles.
The timing of these actions coincides with a White House feud over a joke made by late-night host Jimmy Kimmel. While FCC Chairman Brendan Carr insists the license reviews and investigations into Disney and Comcast are focused on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) practices rather than “speech,” ABC views the move as a clear attempt to chill protected expression.
Disneyland has officially pulled the mask off the Oogie Boogie Bash pre-sale dates for this year’s spooky season. Magic Key Holders, it’s time to set those alarms—your early access to the most popular Halloween party in Anaheim is just around the corner.
Pre-Sale Dates to Remember
Tickets for the after-hours event at Disney California Adventure will be available to Magic Key Holders starting at 9:00 AM PT on the following dates:
June 16, 2026: Exclusive pre-sale for Inspire Key holders.
June 17, 2026: Pre-sale opens for all Magic Key holders.
While a general public sale date has not been officially confirmed, it typically follows immediately after the Magic Key window—so keep your eyes peeled for a June 18 or 19 release!
Oogie Boogie is going bigger than ever for 2026. The bash will run for a record 33 nights (up from 31 last year), stretching from mid-August all the way to Halloween night.
Aside from the legendary trick-or-treat trails and the “Frightfully Fun Parade,” 2026 is rumored to bring even more villainous surprises. From the immersive atmosphere of Villains Grove to rare character sightings, this event remains the “crown jewel” of Disneyland’s Halloween Time.
Pro-Tip: Oogie Boogie Bash tickets are notorious for selling out within hours. Ensure you are logged into your Disney account and joined the virtual queue well before 9:00 AM PT on your designated day!
Yachtsman Steakhouse is scheduled to close for maintenance starting this Monday, immediately following the reopening of Crew’s Cup Lounge. The lounge, located at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, is set to welcome guests again this weekend after completing a refurbishment lasting more than a month.
Crew’s Cup Lounge is officially returning to Disney’s Yacht Club Resort on May 10 at 4:00 p.m. ET, just in time for Mother’s Day. The lounge, which is located directly adjacent to Yachtsman Steakhouse, has been closed for general maintenance since February 23.
Yachtsman Steakhouse is set to begin its refurbishment on May 11, the day after the lounge returns. While the Walt Disney World calendar currently shows the restaurant closed through July 6, this aligns with the projected timeline for an August 2026 reopening. Remarkably, this schedule creates a one-day-only window—Mother’s Day, May 10—where both the steakhouse and Crew’s Cup Lounge will be open simultaneously. While the 2021 refurbishment brought a fresh menu and nautical decor, Disney has not yet revealed if this update will include similar culinary or aesthetic changes.
Orlando Shatters Tourism Records with 76.7 Million Visitors in 2025
Setting a new tourism record, Orlando welcomed more visitors in 2025 than ever before, according to Visit Orlando data released on May 7, 2026. The region hosted 76.7 million guests last year, a 1.8% increase over 2024 and the highest volume ever documented.
Domestic travel fueled this record-breaking growth, with visitation rising 2.2% to reach an unprecedented 70.3 million guests. While in-state travel from Floridians saw a notable 3.4% boost, the majority of the domestic market remained out-of-state travelers. Crucially, overnight stays remained a powerhouse, representing 70% of domestic visits (49.2 million people). For local theme parks, this 1.8% year-over-year increase in overnight guests is vital, as these travelers typically stay longer, spend more, and purchase multi-day park passes.
While domestic travel soared, international visitation experienced a slight softening, dipping 2.4% to 6.3 million visitors. This decrease of roughly 156,000 travelers was primarily driven by a 13.3% slump in Canadian arrivals. Despite this double-digit drop, Canada maintained its status as Orlando’s leading international market with 1.1 million visitors.
The decline was partially mitigated by record-breaking performances from Mexico, Colombia, and Japan. The top international markets for 2025 included:
Canada: 1,119,300 (↓ 13.3%)
United Kingdom: 933,500 (↑ 2.8%)
Brazil: 736,300 (↑ 5.6%)
Mexico: 458,500 (↑ 4.6%)
Colombia: 360,000 (↑ 5.0%)
Looking ahead, the Asia-Pacific market shows promise. At the start of 2026, Orlando International Airport launched Florida’s first-ever direct service to the region via nonstop charter flights to Tokyo, a move expected to bolster future growth.
The dip in international travel reflected in Visit Orlando’s data mirrors recent commentary from Disney CEO Josh D’Amaro and CFO Hugh Johnston. During the company’s Q2 fiscal 2026 earnings call, Johnston confirmed that lagging international attendance contributed to a 1% decline in Disney World visitation compared to the previous year. Notably, Johnston pointed out that domestic attendance would have shown growth if not for the international shortfall.
Looking forward, Disney remains optimistic. Johnston noted that the company expects headwinds from international travel—and the competitive impact of the upcoming Epic Universe—to ease in the near future. Forward booking trends for Disney World are currently “pacing up strongly,” suggesting that the second-quarter slump may be temporary as attendance stabilizes heading into Q3.
In addition to leisure success, Orlando’s group meetings segment surged in 2025, growing 3.1% to reach 5.8 million attendees. This performance solidifies the city’s status as the premier meetings destination in the U.S., providing vital midweek demand for local hotels, restaurants, and attractions. The year’s overall visitor profile consisted of 81% domestic leisure, 10% domestic business, and 8% international travelers.
“While these totals reflect Orlando’s continued expansion, the numbers only tell part of the story,” noted Casandra Matej, president and CEO of Visit Orlando. She emphasized that the true value lies in the “experiences that motivate travel and the emotional connections that draw visitors back year after year.”
Between record-breaking total visitation, robust domestic overnight stays, and Disney’s own optimistic booking data, the outlook for Walt Disney World remains largely positive heading into late 2025—even after a potentially quiet summer season.
The primary wildcard remains the international market, specifically Canada. As Orlando’s largest source of international travelers and a cited “headwind” for Disney, a Canadian recovery would provide a significant boost to park attendance. Ultimately, a headline figure of 76.7 million visitors serves as a definitive signal: Orlando’s status as a global powerhouse is as secure as ever.
Disney World is proving that the magic extends far beyond the park gates. In a show of support for local education, Disney has announced a $1.3 million investment in Central Florida education, coupled with some high-energy surprises at local elementary schools!
From Lake County to Polk County, Disney is making sure the “sparks of imagination” stay bright for the next generation of dreamers.
The $1.3 million donation is set to make a huge impact across Orange, Osceola, Lake, Polk, and Seminole counties. The funds aren’t just going to the five public school districts; they are also strengthening key nonprofit and arts partners that keep creativity alive in the classroom.
Key organizations benefiting from this donation include:
A Gift for Teaching
Elevate Orlando
The Orlando Philharmonic Young People’s Concert
Disney Musicals in Schools (via the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts)
By supporting these initiatives, Disney is expanding access to STEM, literacy, and the arts for students all over the region.
Surprise Visits and “Goofy” Fun
To celebrate the announcement, Disney took the magic on the road! They visited several local schools—including Engelwood, St. Cloud, Eustis Heights, Jesse Keen, and Sterling Park Elementary—to give students a “playful preview” of what’s coming to the parks this summer.
Students were treated to a sneak peek of Cool KIDS’ SUMMER, featuring special appearances by Goofy and the Goof Troop. The little ones got to participate in activities inspired by the brand-new GoofyCore at EPCOT, a high-energy experience debuting later this month.
Magic for the Mentors
Disney didn’t forget the hardworking staff who make the magic happen every day. After the final bell rang, teachers, administrators, and staff were gathered for a special message of appreciation. To thank them for their tireless dedication, every educator at the participating schools received complimentary Walt Disney World theme park tickets to enjoy with their own families!
“Supporting Florida students and educators isn’t just important to Disney, it’s essential to who we are,” said Tajiana Ancora-Brown, Director of External Affairs at Walt Disney World. “Disney is proud to recognize and support the schools and educators who inspire the next generation every single day.”
