Josh D’Amaro and Bob Iger’s First Joint Interview as CEO Transition Begins

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February 6, 2026

Josh D’Amaro and Bob Iger’s First Joint Interview as CEO Transition Begins cover

Josh D’Amaro Talks Disney’s Future, AI, and Taking the CEO Torch From Bob Iger in ABC News Exclusive

The future of The Walt Disney Company officially stepped into the spotlight as incoming CEO Josh D’Amaro and current CEO Bob Iger sat down with David Muir for an exclusive interview on ABC News. The wide-ranging conversation aired just hours after Disney confirmed D’Amaro will take over the top job in March, marking a major leadership moment as the company heads into its next century of storytelling, technology, and theme park magic.

Josh D’Amaro and Bob Iger’s First Joint Interview as CEO Transition Begins

D’Amaro didn’t shy away from the gravity of the role, openly acknowledging the responsibility that comes with guiding a company that means so much to so many people. He described himself as the next steward of a brand that has shaped culture for more than 100 years, a sentiment echoed by Iger, who emphasized that understanding Disney’s emotional footprint is essential to leading it forward. According to Iger, the key has always been balancing legacy with innovation, a tightrope act he believes D’Amaro is well prepared to walk.

That preparation comes from years spent working closely with Iger. D’Amaro credited his longtime mentor with showing him how to respect Disney’s roots while still taking bold swings, something he plans to continue as CEO. One example highlighted in the interview was Disney’s planned expansion into Abu Dhabi, a move D’Amaro framed as part of the company’s long tradition of thoughtful risk-taking.

Artificial intelligence also took center stage in the conversation. With Disney investing heavily in AI technology, including its recent $1 billion commitment tied to OpenAI, both leaders stressed that technology should enhance creativity rather than replace it. Iger praised D’Amaro’s approach to tech as an opportunity, while D’Amaro underscored that AI is already supercharging Disney’s creatives in new and exciting ways, reinforcing that people remain at the heart of Disney’s magic.

The leadership changes do not stop with the CEO transition. Disney also announced that Dana Walden will step into the newly expanded role of president and chief creative officer, overseeing the company’s entertainment vision. D’Amaro described Walden as a powerful, experienced, and deeply creative leader, rounding out a leadership team aimed at steering Disney confidently into its next chapter.

As for Iger, the interview carried a reflective tone as he spoke about stepping away from a role that has defined much of his life. While he admitted it is not easy to turn the page, Iger shared that he is looking forward to quieter days ahead, leaving Disney in the hands of a leader he clearly trusts to carry the torch.

New Construction Permit Suggests Fairy Godmother Meet & Greet Coming to Magic Kingdom

By

Sara

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February 6, 2026

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New Permit Hints at Fairy Godmother Meet & Greet Coming to Fantasyland

Walt Disney World has filed a Notice of Commencement permit that signals upcoming construction for a permanent Fairy Godmother meet-and-greet location inside the Sir Mickey’s gift shop.

While the shop remains a favorite for royal souvenirs, the specific scope of the work—installing a permanent 6-foot interior wall—strongly suggests a structural upgrade for this magical encounter. Currently tucked into a corner behind temporary themed curtains, this exclusive experience for Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique guests appears to be getting a more dedicated, polished home.

Earlier this year, Walt Disney World filed a Notice of Commencement for structural work inside Sir Mickey’s, specifically for the “installation of a 6-foot-high interior knee wall.” While the space is currently partitioned off by themed curtains, this new filing suggests a much more permanent transformation is underway for the Fairy Godmother’s meeting area.

This construction follows recent adjustments to the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique packages. As part of a soft relaunch for the royal makeover experience, Disney introduced periodic visits from the Fairy Godmother. To accommodate this, the former Disney PhotoPass Royal Portrait Studio in the corner of Sir Mickey’s was repurposed into an exclusive photo op and character encounter space.

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Currently, the area is shielded by temporary drapes, with a Cast Member stationed outside to verify that only guests who have just completed their Boutique transformation gain entry. The transition from fabric to a solid wall indicates that Disney is committing to this as a long-term, exclusive perk for Boutique patrons.

Given that the permit specifies a 6-foot wall, the new structure won’t reach the shop’s high ceilings. Instead, it will likely mirror the height of the current curtains—offering privacy for the little royals while blending seamlessly into the shop’s Fantasyland aesthetic.

Would you like a permanent Fairy Godmother meet & greet?

Disney Imagineering Files Permit for Carousel of Progress in the Magic Kingdom

By

Sara

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February 6, 2026

Disney Files New Permit for Carousel of Progress

Walt Disney Imagineering has officially filed a permit for a significant update to the Carousel of Progress at Magic Kingdom. In a move that blends nostalgia with cutting-edge technology, the attraction is set to debut a brand-new audio-animatronic version of Walt Disney himself, marking a historic addition to this classic Tomorrowland theater.

Walt Disney Imagineering filed the permit today, February 5, enlisting Grunau Fire Protection to handle the installation of updated FA/FP systems.

In the construction world, these designations stand for Fire Alarm (FA) and Fire Protection (FP). These essential safety systems are designed to detect, notify, and suppress potential hazards using smoke detection, audible alarms, and advanced sprinkler or foam suppression technology.

The timing of this infrastructure overhaul is particularly significant; it likely serves as the necessary groundwork to prepare the theater for the highly anticipated arrival of the new Walt Disney audio-animatronic.

Before guests embark on a journey through four generations of technological transformation, the experience will now begin with an all-new introductory scene featuring the legendary man himself: Walt Disney.

The first glimpse of this historic addition was revealed during a Destination D23 presentation, where early concept art depicted Walt in a detailed office setting. Surrounded by sketches and blueprints, the scene includes a significant nod to his original vision—an early rendering of EPCOT.

While specific technical details remain under wraps, this update is expected to mirror the groundbreaking Walt Disney animatronic that captivated audiences when it debuted last summer at Disneyland Park.

What do you think of the change?

Disney Cruise Line Increases Wi-Fi Prices on Select Ships

By

Sara

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February 6, 2026

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Disney Cruise Line Raises Wi-Fi Rates on Select Ships

Disney Cruise Line has officially adjusted its Wi-Fi package rates, though the price hike currently appears limited to select ships. This suggests a phased rollout, with the updated pricing likely to expand across the rest of the fleet in the coming weeks.

Reports of increased Wi-Fi pricing first surfaced in mid-January, though the rollout appeared inconsistent across the fleet. During a Disney Dream sailing in late January, passengers found that internet packages remained at the previous rates of $26 per day for the Basic plan and $42 per day for the Premium (streaming) plan.

However, a subsequent sailing on the Disney Fantasy revealed a significant price hike. On that vessel, the Premium internet and streaming plan had risen to $49 per day, while the Basic plan increased to $30 per day.

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It is highly probable that Disney Cruise Line is implementing these price adjustments in phases, which would explain why the Disney Dream maintained lower rates while the Disney Fantasy had already shifted to the higher pricing structure. While the exact reason for the discrepancy remains unconfirmed, the current pricing for the remainder of the Disney Cruise Line fleet has yet to be verified.

Do you purchase wi-fi when you sail on Disney Cruise Line?

New Experiences, Foods and Romantic Spots at Disney Parks for 2026

By

Catherine

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February 6, 2026

Valentine’s Day at Walt Disney World: Sweet Treats and Magical Moments for 2026

On Valentine’s Day, love is an open door at Walt Disney World Resort, where enchanting, heart-fluttering moments help celebrate those who—as Olaf says—are “worth melting for.” Whether you’re planning a dreamy date night, a Galentine’s getaway, or a pixie-dusted self-care day, the Most Magical Place On Earth is filled with heart-shaped surprises waiting just for you.

Romantic Hideaways & New 2026 Lounges

Feel the love all year long at two brand-new hideaways perfect for clinking glasses and soaking in the moment.

The Beak and Barrel (Magic Kingdom): Set sail for pirate-themed, family-friendly adventures in Adventureland. This lively tavern features interactive storytelling and tropical sips like the Salty Seas mARRRgarita.
GEO-82 (EPCOT): For a touch of refinement, toast to romance at this elegant, adults-only escape (21+) tucked inside the iconic Spaceship Earth. It offers panoramic park views and sophisticated cocktails like the Brown Butter Old Fashioned.

Beyond the new additions, classic spots like the globetrotting Nomad Lounge at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and the vintage-style Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar at Disney Springs remain perfect for a Valentine’s toast.

Fall in Love with Art and Music at EPCOT

Stroll hand-in-hand through the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, where you can explore colorful galleries and snack on imaginative festival dishes.

As evening arrives, the DISNEY ON BROADWAY Concert Series fills the park with soaring melodies. On Valentine’s Day 2026, prepare to be serenaded by Disney legends Susan Egan (the original Belle) and James Monroe Iglehart (the original Genie)—the ultimate soundtrack for a park date.

Heart-Shaped Sweet Treats

If your love language is dessert, the limited-time Valentine’s lineup will make you swoon:

Disney Springs: Look for the Be Mine Éclair at Amorette’s Patisserie and the Valentine’s Morello Cherry Sundae at Swirls on the Water.

Resort Favorites: Don’t miss the Berry in Love Beignets at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter or the Raspberry Macaron Heart at the BoardWalk Deli.

Hollywood Studios: The fan-favorite Chocolate-covered Strawberry Lunch Box Tart returns to Woody’s Lunch Box.

Enchanting Indulgences & Experiences

Sprinkle a little extra pampering into your stay with experiences that feel straight out of a fairy tale:

Cupid’s Touch Massage: Cozy up at The Grand Floridian Spa for a massage for two featuring scents of chocolate or champagne rose.
Private Fireworks Cruise: Book a specialty cruise to watch “Happily Ever After” or “Luminous The Symphony of Us” from the water.

Seasons of Love Collection: Commemorate the trip with the new limited-edition merchandise, including pink-and-red Mickey and Minnie designs and new Valentine’s Day ears.

Magical Offers for Your Getaway

To make your 2026 escape even sweeter, Disney is offering special ways to save. Families can enjoy a FREE dining plan for kids (ages 3–9) when booking a select package with a dining plan at a Disney Resort Collection hotel. Visit DisneyWorld.com/offers to plan your heart-warming memories!

Bootlegger’s Dinner at Enzo’s Hideaway Returns to Disney Springs

By

Catherine

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February 6, 2026

A Toast to the Underground: Bootlegger’s Dinner Returns to Enzo’s Hideaway

Dust off your fedoras and find your finest flapper fringe—the most exclusive “secret” in Disney Springs is back. On Thursday, February 12, 2026, Enzo’s Hideaway is opening its tunnel doors for a one-night-only Bootlegger’s Dinner.

Transporting guests back to the roaring 1920s, this immersive event pairs the speakeasy’s Prohibition-era charm with the refined, bold flavors of Código 1530 Tequila. For those looking to escape the modern world, this three-course culinary journey offers a sophisticated blend of Italian craftsmanship and agave artistry.

The Menu: A Three-Act Spirit Story

The evening is structured around three distinct courses, each featuring a curated cocktail designed to highlight the unique aging process of Código 1530.

Course	Cocktail Pairing	Culinary Pairing
The Starter	Midnight Rose: Blanco tequila, strawberry pink peppercorn cordial, wild rose water, and citrus bitters.	Insalata di Millefoglie: Wild honey, whipped ricotta, walnut butter, radicchio, and tangerine oil.
The Entrée	Black Pearl: Coffee-infused Reposado, mandarin oleosaccharum, cocoa nib tea, and agrumato tangerine oil.	Bistecca con Crosta di Caffè: Espresso-rubbed New York strip, pea purée, beef tallow, and polenta torta.
The Finale	Golden Hour: Añejo tequila, orange blossom chamomile, toasted coconut reduction, and wildflower honey.	Crostata al Latte di Cocco e Crema: Coconut curd tart, whipped ganache, tequila caviar, and finger limes.

Elevated Agave

The standout of the evening is the Black Pearl cocktail, which utilizes a Reposado aged in French White Oak red wine barrels from Napa Valley. The tannins from the wood provide a sturdy backbone for the espresso-rubbed steak, creating a savory, rich profile rarely found in tequila pairings.

For the true connoisseur, an optional upgrade is available: a 1 oz. pour of the prestigious Código Extra Añejo for an additional $20.

Event Details & Reservations

Space within the “Hideaway” is notoriously limited. To join the ranks of the bootleggers for the night, you’ll need the secret word and a confirmed reservation.

When: Thursday, February 12, 2026
Seatings: 5:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.
Pricing: $85 per person (plus tax and gratuity)
Requirements: Guests must be 21 or older.
The Password: Tequila

Whether you’re a tequila aficionado or just a fan of the atmospheric underground, this dinner promises a “forbidden” experience that is well worth the trip through the tunnels.

Save Big on Disney Parks with Get Away Today!

By

Chip

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February 6, 2026

Don’t miss out on these special Disney World & Disneyland Offers from Get Away Today!

If you are planning a Disney vacation for 2026, right now is the absolute best time to book! Our friend and sponsor over at Get Away Today has released several incredible offers for both Disneyland and Walt Disney World.

From massive discounts for California residents to “Adults at Kids’ Prices,” there is a deal for everyone. However, many of these are limited-time offers with deadlines approaching fast!

Book your vacation and see all the deals HERE!

🚨 Limited Time: Disneyland Offers

Adults at Kids’ Prices! Why pay adult prices when you don’t have to? For a very limited time, you can get 3-Day and longer Disneyland Resort tickets for the price of a child’s ticket.

Deadline: This offer expires on February 17, 2026.
Click here to lock in Kids’ Prices!

California Resident Ticket Offer Disneyland Assets Jan Square

California Resident 3-Day Park Hopper Special Calling all locals! California residents can grab 3-Day Park Hopper tickets for just $240. That is an unbeatable price for three days of magic.

Travel Dates: Tickets must be used by May 21, 2026.
California Residents: Grab your tickets HERE!

Kids’ Ticket Offer: $48 Per Day. Planning a summer getaway? You can get Park Hopper tickets for the little ones starting at just $48 per day.

Travel Dates: Valid for travel between May 22 and September 7, 2026.
Check availability for Summer 2026!

Unauthorized Third Party Vendors Receive Cease & Desist Letters from Disney

🏰 Walt Disney World Resort Specials

2 Days + 2 Nights FREE! This is one of the most popular offers we see. When you book a qualifying package, you can get two extra days and nights for free, giving you more time to explore all four parks.

Deadline: You must book by February 15, 2026.
Travel Dates: Valid for travel from May 26 through September 15, 2026.
Book your Free Nights at WDW HERE!

Walt Disney World Pay Less Than The Gate Price Assets Feb SQUARE

NEW: Lowest Prices on 2-10 Day Tickets If you just need tickets, Get Away Today has just announced their lowest prices on 2-10 day Walt Disney World Resort tickets.

Deadline: This special pricing expires February 17, 2026.
Buy your discounted WDW tickets HERE!

Why Book with Get Away Today?

In addition to these great rates, booking through our link helps support Chip and Co. so we can keep bringing you the latest Disney news. Get Away Today is famous for their world-class customer service and layaway plans that allow you to lock in these low prices for just $200 down!

Don’t wait—most of these deals disappear by mid-February! And for a limited time get $10 off when you use our promo code for packages: CHIPANDCO

SHOP ALL OFFERS AT GET AWAY TODAY

First Look at Zootopia Annual Passholder Magnet and Carrot Cake Sundae

By

Chris B

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February 5, 2026

First Look at Zootopia Annual Passholder Magnet and Carrot Cake Sundae

First Look at the Zootopia Annual Passholder Magnet and Carrot Cake Sundae at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Zootopia fans, it is officially time to hustle. We stopped by Disney’s Animal Kingdom today to check out the newest Zootopia themed Annual Passholder offerings, and the spotlight is firmly on the exclusive magnet and the surprisingly delightful Carrot Cake Sundae. Both are now available through March 15, 2026, and if these are on your must do list, you will want to hop over sooner rather than later.

The Zootopia Annual Passholder magnet features Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps in full buddy cop mode, leaning back to back and looking ready to crack another case. It is available for free at Discovery Trading Company while supplies last. Passholders must present a valid Annual Pass and government issued photo ID, with a limit of one magnet per Passholder. This one feels like a strong addition to the magnet collection, with bold colors and characters that actually pop, making it an easy grab if you are already in the park.

Over at Terra Treats, the Carrot Cake Sundae is doing the most, in the best way. Inspired by Judy Hopps, this dessert starts with vanilla ice cream in a waffle bowl layered with caramel sauce, roasted pecans, and carrot cake crumbs. It is finished with a birthday cake flavored shell and a chocolate carrot top that makes it instantly recognizable and very photo friendly.

The flavors are well balanced, sweet without going overboard, and the carrot cake crumbs add a nice texture that keeps it from feeling like just another ice cream sundae. The sundae is available for purchase during regular Terra Treats hours from February 5 through March 15, and you do not need to be a Passholder to enjoy this one.

If you are heading to Animal Kingdom for Zootopia: Better Zoogether! or just passing through Discovery Island, these two offerings are easy to pair together and make for a fun, quick stop that feels festive without eating up your whole day.

New Construction Permit for Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin Extends Into 2027

By

Chris B

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February 5, 2026

New Construction Permit for Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin Extends Into

Long-Term Permit Filed for Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin at Magic Kingdom

Disney has filed a new long term construction permit tied to Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin at Magic Kingdom, and the timeline alone has fans doing a double take. While most Disney construction permits expire within a year, this Notice of Commencement stretches all the way to April 2, 2027.

The permit lists general construction work and was filed by Disney’s Facility Asset Management, a group typically associated with ongoing maintenance rather than dramatic reimaginings. Jon Richards Company is named as the contractor, a familiar name on past Disney projects.

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is currently slated to reopen this spring following a major overhaul that includes new scenes, updated ride vehicles, redesigned blasters, and refreshed interactive targets. The unusually long expiration date suggests Disney may be planning to continue work even after the attraction reopens, possibly fine tuning gameplay, show elements, or reliability as guests blast their way back into Tomorrowland.

While Disney has not confirmed any additional upgrades beyond what has already been announced, the permit hints that Star Command may stay busy well into the future.

Disney Files New Construction Permit for Typhoon Lagoon Refurbishment

By

Chris B

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February 5, 2026

Disney Files New Construction Permit for Typhoon Lagoon Refurbishment

Permit Filed for Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Refurbishment Ahead of Seasonal Closure

Disney has officially filed a new permit tied to an upcoming refurbishment at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, giving us a clearer picture of what is ahead for the popular water park as it prepares for its seasonal downtime. The permit was filed by Facility Asset Management, a group that typically handles routine upkeep rather than major reimagining projects, and it lists Bo-Mar Scenic & Design for general construction work.

That points toward maintenance focused on infrastructure and show quality instead of any big thematic changes. Typhoon Lagoon has already faced several temporary closures recently due to cold weather and is set to close for the season after February 14. Right on its heels, Disney’s Blizzard Beach will reopen on February 15, keeping at least one water park operating for guests.

Typhoon Lagoon is scheduled to reopen by May 26 and will run at the same time as Blizzard Beach through September 8 as part of Cool Kids’ Summer. During that window, guests staying at a Disney Resorts hotel will once again be able to enjoy free water park admission on their check in day, making this refresh perfectly timed for summer splash season at Walt Disney World.

Frozen Ever After with New Updates Officially Reopening on February 12th

By

Chris B

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February 5, 2026

Frozen Ever After with New Updates Officially Reopening on February th

Frozen Ever After Reopens at EPCOT on February 12 With New High-Tech Animatronics

After a short but mighty refurbishment, Frozen Ever After is officially thawing out at EPCOT on February 12, 2026, and the ride is coming back with a serious glow up. The attraction closed on January 26 for an Audio Animatronics upgrade, and Disney has been busy installing brand new figures for Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff that match the advanced technology seen at World of Frozen.

These new figures feature more expressive facial movements, refined body animation, and a closer resemblance to their on screen counterparts, marking the first major character update since Frozen Ever After debuted back in 2016. While the ride itself was down, the Norway Pavilion stayed open, so guests could still meet Anna and Elsa at Royal Sommerhus and enjoy the rest of the pavilion.

Disney originally pushed boundaries with all electric animatronics and 3D printed components when Frozen Ever After opened, and this latest update shows just how far that tech has come, especially with similar advancements now appearing in attractions like Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. With operating hours now posted and a reopening date locked in, Olaf fans can officially start counting down the days until it is time to let it go back into the queue.

Universal Studios Hollywood Announces “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift” Opening This Summer

By

Sara

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February 5, 2026

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Universal Studios Hollywood’s “Hollywood Drift” Opens This Summer

The wait is finally over: Universal Studios Hollywood has confirmed that “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift” will make its high-octane debut this summer. As the park’s first-ever high-speed outdoor roller coaster, this groundbreaking attraction promises to bring the adrenaline-pumping action of the global film franchise to life with state-of-the-art drifting technology.

The high-octane announcement arrived alongside a dynamic new 30-second media campaign, narrated by the voice of the franchise himself—star and producer Vin Diesel. This pulse-pounding spot is set to take over the airwaves during a massive lineup of high-profile sporting events on NBC and Peacock, including Super Bowl LX, the Winter Olympics, and the NBA All-Star game.

Designed to immerse fans directly into the high-stakes world of the Fast & Furious films, the campaign perfectly captures the adrenaline of the upcoming attraction. It serves as the ultimate hype reel as Universal Studios Hollywood prepares for its biggest summer debut yet.

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Perched on the Upper Lot in a massive, red-brick “garage,” this groundbreaking coaster is set to redefine the theme park experience. Utilizing revolutionary 360-degree rotation technology, the ride creates a seamless drifting sensation as guests hit speeds of 72 MPH. The adventure unfolds across 4,100 feet of aerial track—roughly the length of 12 football fields—winding directly over the park’s iconic Starway escalators that bridge the Upper and Lower Lots.

The timing couldn’t be better, as the launch of Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift coincides with the 25th anniversary of the global blockbuster franchise. It also serves as the ultimate lead-up to the final theatrical chapter, Fast Forever, which is currently slated to hit theaters on March 17, 2028.

This new addition represents the pinnacle of Universal Destinations & Experiences’ decades of innovation. By drawing on their global expertise in roller coaster development, Universal is delivering a contemporary thrill ride that brings the cinematic intensity of the Fast universe into the real world.