Home Blog Page 77

Disney Starlight Finalist for IAAPA Brass Ring Awards and More

Disney Starlight Finalist for IAAPA Brass Ring Awards and More

Disney Starlight Parade and More Shine in IAAPA Brass Ring Award Nominations

Disney is having a full sparkle moment as multiple Walt Disney Company offerings have landed finalist spots in the 2025 IAAPA Brass Ring Excellence Awards. These industry honors celebrate experiences that push creative boundaries and elevate guest experiences, and Disney’s nominations span theme parks, cruise ships, retail, and sustainability efforts. In other words, imagineering magic showed up and chose excellence.

Related: New Savory Loaded Waffles Coming to Disney Springs

Disney Starlight Finalist for IAAPA Brass Ring Awards and More

Leading the parade, quite literally, is Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away at Magic Kingdom. The nighttime spectacular is a finalist for Most Creative Spectacle, going head-to-head with two other Disney showstoppers: World of Color Happiness! at Disney California Adventure and Disney Tales of Magic at Disneyland Paris. The category is basically a glow-stick showdown, and Disney is competing with itself on three continents.

Related: Guide to 2026 EPCOT International Festival of the Arts

Disney Starlight Finalist for IAAPA Brass Ring Awards and More

Disney Cruise Line also earned a well-deserved nod, with The Tale of Moana aboard the Disney Treasure recognized as a finalist for Most Creative Theatrical Production for year-round operation. Back on land, The Key to Disneyland from the resort’s 70th anniversary celebration unlocked a nomination for Best Custom Retail Souvenir, while Disney Consumer Products was recognized for its Disney Figurine Set Sustainable Packaging Program, highlighting the company’s ongoing push toward more eco-friendly practices.

Big Changes Coming to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disneyland Including New Characters, Music and More

att j UXxkpkHnKCnfJydVoeHezRdPDBNKIE

Disneyland to Feature Multiple Eras of Star Wars Starting April 29

In a historic move for the park, Disneyland Resort is officially “unlocking the timeline” at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, moving away from its strict sequel-trilogy setting to embrace the entire saga.

Fans know that Batuu has played a role in the history of the galaxy for hundreds of years on the Outer Rim. Beginning April 29, 2026, visitors will be invited to immerse themselves in different points of the Star Wars saga inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland park as they never have before with characters and storylines that capture the heart of what draws guests to this galaxy far, far away. These exciting updates to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will enable visitors to experience even more of the eras of Star Wars.

Star wars

New storylines will be brought to life on Batuu, spanning multiple eras of the planet’s rich history. These updates will enable you to experience the Galactic Civil War and New Republic, as well as the Age of the Resistance and First Order.

Black Spire Outpost will roll back in time several decades, thoughtfully introducing beloved characters from across the Star Wars timeline, new props and graphics in some areas, musical selections from Star Wars film scores throughout the land and more. Each era will be brought to life with the same care and attention to detail that the land was originally designed with, masterfully weaving together stories from across time and space in one location.

att VWPramsuJUkcVHTVkQOeOqfaDfbRvzBikCYLg

Where You’ll Find Iconic Star Wars Saga Characters

Cue “The Imperial March.” Darth Vader’s search for Luke Skywalker will bring him to Batuu. This Sith Lord will be joined by Imperial Stormtroopers, and as they seek the elusive Jedi, they may find hints of the Force around the outpost.

Leia Organa and Han Solo will be reunited with Luke Skywalker and Chewbacca amid the rocky spires.

Luke Skywalker will roam the outpost seeking knowledge of the Force and artifacts related to lightsaber building, kyber crystals, and more.

Leia Organa may be spotted near the Millennium Falcon, where she’ll recruit travelers and locals to help keep Luke safe.

Han Solo also will linger around his prized ship, tempted by the local cantina.

These iconic heroes and villains of the Star Wars saga will join familiar faces you may see now in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

Encounter Ahsoka Tano and The Mandalorian and Grogu near the marketplace.

The beloved starship mechanic and fighter pilot’s assistant, R2-D2, will also continue to roll through the land.

IMG

The forested area on the outskirts of Black Spire Outpost will continue to represent a time inspired by the Age of the Resistance. You may find Rey around this Resistance camp, and if you’re bold enough, become a hero yourself in a climactic battle with the First Order aboard Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.

Hear John Williams Music Throughout the Land

As you take in the towering remains of petrified trees that create the skyline of Batuu, you’ll be further transported into the world of Star Wars with the addition of beloved scores from legendary composer John Williams, pulling themes from the first six films.

Passing through the tunnels of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, the iconic “Main Title” and Force Theme will beckon you to a galaxy far, far away. As you wander through the land, you’ll hear motifs from other classic tracks including “Han Solo and the Princess,” “The Desert and the Robot Auction,” “The Emperor” and more.

Oga's Cantina in Star Wars Galaxy's Edge at Disneyland Park

And of course, the lively tune “Cantina Band” will be heard from within Oga’s Cantina. In the era of the Galactic Civil War, proprietor Oga Garra only recently opened this watering hole, which is already becoming a popular spot for intergalactic travelers.

Star Wars Galaxy's Edge at Disneyland Park

Enhancements to Local Establishments and Shops

As Batuu’s history is represented with new storylines, you may notice some updates to buildings and shops throughout the land.

First Order Cargo will transform into Black Spire Surplus, a military salvage operation offering artifacts from across the history of the galaxy, including Imperial and Rebel items from the Galactic Civil War.

As antiquities shops often do, Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities will display a different array of one-of-a-kind items from its past. The curiosities and artifacts in his shop certainly change with the times.

An earlier generation of the Mubo family will operate Droid Depot, where they will be prototyping the BB style of droid. You’ll still have the opportunity to purchase and create your own droid companion at this shop.

In his search for information on lightsabers and the Force, Luke Skywalker will be interested in meeting with Savi. You may continue to have the opportunity to purchase and build your own lightsaber under the guidance of Savi’s Gatherers.

Hondo Ohnaka in Millennium Falcon Smugglers Run at Disneyland Park

Plus, Favorite Star Wars Attractions, Entertainment, and Food

As the storyline of Batuu expands to encompass a broader selection of stories reflecting the planet’s rich history, you will still be able to enjoy some of your favorite galactic pastimes. From the cockpit of Han’s trusted ship, fly aboard Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run or sample favorite flavors from across the galaxy like blue milk and ronto wraps.

Watch as the spires of Batuu become a one-of-a-kind backdrop each night for the legendary story of the Skywalkers in the projection show “Shadows of Memory: A Skywalker Saga.” On select evenings, “Fire of the Rising Moons” showcases a unique view of the Disneyland park fireworks accompanied by iconic music and tales from across the galaxy.

Whether you’re walking the path of the light or dark side — or even just a traveler passing through this rich story — you won’t want to miss these updates that celebrate even more of the stories and characters Star Wars fans know and love. You may begin to see some of these enhancements appear in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland over the next couple months, before they officially debut on April 29, 2026.

Best Day Ever! The Tangled Girls Crew Jewelry Collection Drop is Finally Here

Tangled Girls Crew Jewelry Collection

Best Day Ever! The Tangled Girls Crew Jewelry Collection Drop is Finally Here

Get ready to live your best princess life, because the Tangled Girls Crew Jewelry Collection has officially arrived, and it is basically sunshine in jewelry form! Whether you’re stuck in a tower (metaphorically, we hope) or heading out on your own “best day ever,” these pieces are designed to help you carry Rapunzel’s adventurous spirit wherever you go. From shimmering sterling silver to the iconic golden sun of Corona, this collection is all about finding your way and letting your inner light shine.

Related – Fall in Love With The Disney Valentines Day Collection by Baublebar!

First up, let’s talk about the rings, because they are total showstoppers. If you’re feeling those royal vibes, the Rapunzel Crown Sterling Silver Ring ($85) is a literal dream. It’s got that delicate crown detailing that’s elegant but still playful enough for everyday wear, think of it as a tiny reminder that you’re the queen of your own story. If you want something with even more meaning, the Corona’s Crest Sun Sterling Silver Ring ($88) is the way to go. It features that glowing sun we all know and love, serving as a sweet reminder that even when things get a little dark, you’ll always find your way back home. Plus, they look amazing stacked together!

If you want to radiate that “I just left the tower” energy, the rest of the lineup has you covered. The Corona’s Crest Necklace ($68) is the perfect centerpiece for any outfit; it’s delicate, striking, and practically screams adventure. Pair it with the matching Corona’s Crest Bracelet ($65) to keep that symbol of freedom right on your wrist. Both pieces are lightweight enough for daily wear but special enough to make you feel like you’re heading straight to the lantern festival.

Tangled Girls Crew Jewelry Collection

To wrap it all up, you absolutely cannot sleep on the Corona’s Sun Earrings ($65). These aren’t just your basic hoops, they’ve got the iconic sun emblem built right in, giving a radiant twist to a classic style. They’re bold, bright, and full of that Rapunzel-level optimism. Whether you’re chasing your dreams or just grabbing coffee, this collection is the perfect way to add a little fairytale magic to your jewelry box.

Credit: Girls Crew

All Aboard! The Newest Must Have Disney Wishable Shimmer Train Conductor Mickey Mouse is Here!

Train Conductor Mickey Mouse

All Aboard! The Newest Must Have Disney Wishable Shimmer Train Conductor Mickey Mouse is Here!

If you’re a Disney plush collector, you might want to clear some shelf space! The Disney Wishables Shimmer series just got a major upgrade with a brand-new, limited edition release that is honestly too cute to pass up. We’re talking about the Train Conductor Mickey Mouse, and he is ready to whistle his way right into your heart. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the Disney railroads or just love a good sparkle, this little guy is a total standout in the Shimmer collection.

If you’re looking to add this conductor to your crew, you’ll want to move fast. Since he’s a Limited Edition item of 2,500 pieces and priced at a very giftable $19.99, he likely won’t stay “at the station” for long. You can find him right now exclusively online at the Disney Store, so head over there before he disappears into the horizon!

Related – Adorable Disney Wishables Shimmer Collection at Disney World!

What makes this specific Wishable so special is the artist behind the magic. This version of Mickey was designed by Alex Maher, a name many Disney fans will recognize for his incredible work with Disney Parks merchandise and character art. Maher has captured Mickey in his most classic “Main Street” aesthetic, sporting those iconic striped conductor overalls that make him look like he’s ready to pull the Disneyland Limited right out of the station.

True to the Shimmer series name, this plush isn’t just your standard fabric toy. It features those adorable signature stars in the eyes, giving Mickey that dreamy, “wishes-do-come-true” look. Plus, the outfit includes a sparkling element that catches the light perfectly, adding just the right amount of pixie dust to his conductor uniform. Because it’s a limited edition release, it has that extra bit of “oomph” that regular mystery bag releases might miss.

Credit: Disney Store

5 Cool Disney Tees to Level Up Your Park Style

Disney Tees

5 Cool Disney Tees to Level Up Your Park Style

If you’re heading to the Magic Kingdom, you know half the fun is showing off your Disney style. Whether you’re a fan of 90s nostalgia, classic sass, or just love a good pun, the latest drop of Disney tees has something for everyone. Grab your Minnie ears, because these new shirts are calling your name!

Related – Shine Bright With The New Her Universe Disney Sequined Tops at Disney World!

Nostalgia & Girl Power

For the 90s kids who grew up wishing they were at East High, the High School Musical Parody Poster Tee ($32.99) is an absolute must-have. This white shirt features the iconic Max Goof taking center stage, perfectly imitating Zac Efron on the High School Musical 3: Senior Year poster. It’s the ultimate “IYKYK” shirt for Disney fans who love a deep-cut reference.

If you’re feeling more like a classic princess with a side of sass, the “Because I’m a Lady” Tee ($32.99) is for you. This crisp white shirt features everyone’s favorite kitten, Marie from The Aristocats, lounging comfortably on a plush pillow. With the famous quote in bright pink text at the top, it’s the perfect way to tell the world you’re fancy (even if you’ve been walking in the Florida heat for six hours).

Cheer Vibes & Playful Prints

Looking for something high-energy? The Cheer Cheer Cheer Cheer Tee ($32.99) is a colorful explosion of pink and purple. It features Daisy and Minnie in full cheerleader gear in front of a castle. Interestingly, it showcases a castle with Minnie holding a flag that says “Walt Disney World” making it super magical! With confetti and the word “CHEER” repeated four times, you’ll definitely stand out in the crowds.

For the collectors out there, the Ducks of Disney T-Shirt ($32.99) is a total win. Set on a dark blue background, this tee is covered in rubber duck versions of your favorite characters. Based on the popular mystery pins, you’ll find duck versions of Donald, Daisy, and even non-duck characters like Stitch, Baymax, and Tigger. It’s quirky, cute, and a great conversation starter.

The “Relatable” Classic

Disney Tees

Finally, if you’ve ever reached that 4:00 PM wall at the parks, the Donald Duck Disney World T-Shirt is your spirit animal. This gray tee features a hilariously grumpy Donald Duck walking away from Cinderella Castle. With the official resort logo at the top, it perfectly captures that “I’ve had a magical day, but now I’m ready for a nap” mood that every Disney regular understands.

Shine Bright With The New Her Universe Disney Sequined Tops at Disney World!

Disney sequined tops

Shine Bright With The New Her Universe Disney Sequined Tops at Disney World!

If you’re looking to add some serious sparkle to your next park day, you’ve got to check out the latest drop from Her Universe. We recently spotted a trio of stunning new Disney sequined tops at Walt Disney World, and let’s just say they are anything but subtle. These tops perfectly blend that athletic, boxy sports jersey vibe with a massive amount of main character energy. Retailing for $59.99 each, they’re the ultimate statement piece for anyone who wants to shine from Main Street to the back of the line.

Related – The New Rose Gold Minnie Mouse Balloon Ear Headband Has Arrived!

First up is the Daisy Duck top, which is basically a love letter to everyone’s favorite sassy fashionista. This one is drenched in dark pink sequins and has a cool, oversized fit that feels very street-style. The front features “Daisy 40” in bold silver sequins with “Duck” popping in yellow, while the sleeves are adorned with her signature light pink bow. But the real showstopper is the back, a full, shimmering portrait of Daisy herself. It’s the perfect look for a day at EPCOT or just showing off your “Daisy attitude.”

You can’t have a Disney collection without the queen of polka dots! The Minnie Mouse top takes a classic approach with a black sequined base and bold red and white accents. The front reads “Minnie Mouse 28” (a sweet nod to her debut year), and the numbers are filled in with her iconic red and white polka dot pattern. Her smiling face is rendered in gorgeous detail on the back, and those famous bows sit right on the sleeves. If you’re a fan of the traditional Disney look but want to dial the glamour up to eleven, this is the one for you.

For those who prefer a bit of “wicked” in their wardrobe, the Maleficent top is an absolute must-have. This jersey swaps the bright pinks for a moody, striking palette of purple, black, and green sequins. The front features “Maleficent 59” with eerie green vines twisting through the numbers, and her iconic horned headdress is featured on each sleeve. The back shows off her scowling visage, making it very clear that you aren’t one to be trifled with. It’s edgy, glamorous, and definitely the best choice for a night at Disney After Hours.

Whether you’re Team Duck, Team Mouse, or Team Mistress of All Evil, these $59.99 jerseys are a fun, high-quality way to level up your Disney style game.

The New Mickey Mouse Tumbler with Coin Purse Has Arrived at Magic Kingdom!

Mickey Mouse tumbler with coin purse

The New Mickey Mouse Tumbler with Coin Purse Has Arrived at Magic Kingdom!

If you’re looking to add a little character to your hydration game, you need to head over to Main Street, U.S.A., immediately. We just spotted the latest must-have accessory at the Emporium in Magic Kingdom, and it is the perfect blend of sleek style and classic Disney magic. This new Mickey Mouse tumbler with coin purse is definitely going to be the talk of the parks!

Related – Love at First Sip Wit This New Mickey and Minnie Mouse Valentines Day Starbucks Tumbler!

Mickey Mouse tumbler with coin purse

The first thing you’ll notice about this tumbler is its stealth aesthetic. It’s a gorgeous, matte black finish covered in subtle black Mickey Mouse emblems. It’s the kind of design that looks sophisticated from a distance but shows off your Disney side up close. To top it all off, literally, it comes with a matching black Mickey Mouse straw topper, so your drink stays protected while you’re rushing to your next Lightning Lane.

Mickey Mouse tumbler with coin purse

What really sets this apart from your standard park cup is the detachable white accessory pouch strapped right to the side. This little coin purse features a high-quality embroidered classic Mickey Mouse, looking as dapper as ever. Right next to him, Mickey Mouse is written in that iconic font we all know and love. It’s the perfect size for holding your lip balm, some extra hair ties, or a bit of cash for a quick popcorn snack.

At $59.99, it’s a bit of an investment, but considering you’re getting both a high-end tumbler and a functional Mickey pouch, it’s a pretty sweet deal for any superfan. It’s practical, it’s stylish, and let’s be honest, it’s going to look amazing in your castle photos!

New Savory Loaded Waffles Coming to Disney Springs

waffles

Mickey Waffle Upgrade: New Savory Loaded Waffles Are Coming to Disney Springs

Calling all Mickey Waffle aficionados! If you thought the iconic mouse-shaped treat was strictly for breakfast or dessert, think again. Starting January 15, Marketplace Snacks at Disney Springs is flipping the script by introducing three brand-new, over-the-top savory loaded waffles.

Marketplace Snacks has long been a go-to destination for photo-worthy sundaes served in Mickey waffle cones. Now, that same delicious, crispy-sweet waffle base is being used as a vessel for hearty, savory comfort food.

Whether you’re taking a break from shopping or looking for a creative lunch on the go, these three new additions are about to become your new favorite Disney “carb-load.”

Related-New Black Vanilla Waffle Cone lands at Disney Springs

hothoneywaffle

The New Savory Lineup

Hot Honey Chicken Waffle

Hot honey is having a major moment in the food world, and this waffle lean squarely into the “sweet heat” trend. This isn’t just basic chicken and waffles; it’s a flavor powerhouse.

  • What’s Inside: Crispy fried chicken bites, black pepper candied bacon, spicy pickle slaw, roasted jalapeños, garlic ranch, and a sprinkle of chopped parsley.

Related-New Mickey Waffle Sundae at Marketplace Snacks in Disney Springs!

burgerwaffle

Bacon Cheeseburger Waffle

It turns out that cheeseburgers and waffles are a match made in culinary heaven. This creation takes all the components of a classic burger and stacks them high inside a waffle cone.

  • What’s Inside: A special blend of ground beef, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese sauce, dill pickles, iceberg lettuce, diced tomato, and signature burger sauce.
brisketwaffle

BBQ Brisket Mac and Cheese Waffle

If you’re looking for a full, smoky meal in the palm of your hand, this is it. It’s essentially a backyard BBQ tucked into a Mickey waffle.

  • What’s Inside: Chunks of smoky brisket, creamy mac and cheese, sweet black pepper BBQ sauce, pickled onions, and chopped parsley.
New Savory Loaded Waffles Coming to Disney Springs

While Marketplace Snacks will still offer its famous sweet sundaes, these new savory options provide a much-needed salty alternative for guests who don’t have a massive sweet tooth. They are hearty, portable, and—most importantly—feature that unmistakable Mickey Mouse flair.

Where to find them: Marketplace Snacks, Disney Springs (Marketplace section). Launch Date: January 15, 2026.

Which one are you reaching for first: the spicy kick of the Hot Honey Chicken, the classic comfort of the Cheeseburger, or the indulgence of the BBQ Brisket Mac?

Disney & GANNI Unveil New Daisy Duck Collection

daisyduck

Copenhagen Cool Meets Disney Charm: The New GANNI x Disney Daisy Duck Collection

Move over, Mickey—it’s everyone’s favorite fashionista’s turn to shine! Following the massive success of their initial collaboration, GANNI and Disney are back with a second special-edition drop that proves no one rocks a bold bow quite like Daisy Duck.

This 16-piece capsule collection merges GANNI’s effortless Danish “Scandi-cool” roots with Daisy’s signature adventurous spirit. Launching January 19, 2026, this collection is designed for the modern wardrobe, blending high-fashion silhouettes with playful, nostalgic storytelling.

Related-85 Years of Fab! Check Out the New Daisy Duck 85th Anniversary Spirit Jersey!

The Collection Highlights

The new drop features everything from cozy knits to street-ready denim. Here are the standout pieces to keep on your radar:

  • The Comic Book Essentials: The Black Comic Sweatshirt and T-shirt feature exclusive artwork of Daisy Duck on a stylish journey through the city to find her signature look. Boldly featuring the GANNI logo, these are set to be instant street-style staples.

Related-Achieve Quacktastic Couture With The Daisy Duck 85th Anniversary Crossbody Bags!

  • Statement Knitwear: If you need a pop of color, the Green Brushed Wool Jumper features Daisy’s eyes and her iconic pink bow. For a softer look, the Beige Brushed Alpaca T-shirt combines delicate daisy doodles with Daisy’s face for a sophisticated yet whimsical vibe.
  • Must-Have Denim: GANNI is famous for its denim, and this set doesn’t disappoint. The Oversized Jacket features Daisy Duck peeking out of the pockets, while the matching Stary Jeans allow for a full “floral-on-floral” look.
  • The Mini Hobo Bags: Accessories are the heart of this drop. The Pale Pink version features Daisy in a stylish leopard print bow, while the Brown version offers a more subtle, chic option with a vibrant green bow.

The Beige Brushed Alpaca T-shirt: If you love Daisy Duck’s look paired with floral prints, you’ll love this knit top. In a soft beige with cute daisy doodles and Daisy’s face, it’s a playful, high-quality piece that brings effortless personality to your wardrobe.

To celebrate the launch, GANNI and Disney have created a collector’s fanzine. The narrative follows Daisy as she cycles through the colorful streets of Copenhagen and visits the home of GANNI’s Creative Director, Ditte Reffstrup.

Fans can experience this story firsthand through immersive takeovers at local magazine stores and cafés. These events will feature creative window displays and transformed newsstands where visitors can pick up a complimentary copy of the fanzine:

  • Copenhagen: Kick-off begins on January 27.
  • New York: The takeover hits the States on February 3.
  • Seoul: The celebration concludes in South Korea on February 6.
daisyduck

How to Shop

The GANNI x Disney capsule will be available starting January 19, 2026, exclusively at GANNI.com and in select GANNI stores worldwide. Given the popularity of the first drop, you’ll want to move fast to secure these pieces!

New Black Vanilla Waffle Cone lands at Disney Springs

vanillacone

The Black Vanilla Waffle Cone Arrives at Disney Springs

If you’re strolling through Disney Springs and looking for a treat that is as “Instagrammable” as it is delicious, head straight to the water’s edge. Swirls on the Water has officially debuted its latest creation: the Black Vanilla Waffle Cone, and it’s already turning heads.

While the dark aesthetic might suggest a heavy or mysterious flavor, this treat is actually a bright, sun-drenched explosion of tropical fruit.

Related-Orange Bird Cone Returns to Swirls on the Water for Flavors of Florida in…

vanillacone

This isn’t your average soft-serve cone. Swirls on the Water has layered textures and flavors to create a balanced dessert:

  • The Signature Cone: A striking, jet-black waffle cone. Despite its dark appearance, it carries a sweet, classic vanilla flavor and comes dipped in a smooth layer of white chocolate.
  • The Swirl: The star of the show is the refreshing blend of Strawberry and Mango DOLE Whip®. This dairy-free swirl offers a tart yet sweet profile that perfectly counters the chocolate-dipped cone.
  • The Finishing Touches: To add a bit of crunch and freshness, the swirl is topped with crisp white sprinkles and a fresh strawberry half.

Related-New Summer Flavors Arrive at Swirls on the Water in Disney Springs

vanillacone

Disney fans are loving this new addition for its “unexpected twist.” The contrast between the moody, dark cone and the vibrant pink and orange DOLE Whip makes it a visual standout. Beyond the looks, it’s being praised for its refreshing flavor profile—the mango and strawberry combination is widely considered one of the most refreshing pairings for a humid Florida afternoon.

vanillacone

You can find this photogenic snack exclusively at Swirls on the Water, located in the Marketplace section of Disney Springs (right overlooking the Village Lake).

  • Location: Swirls on the Water, Disney Springs
  • Flavor Profile: Fruity, Tart, and Vanilla-Sweet
  • Availability: Now serving!

Injured Indiana Jones Disney Cast Member Breaks Silence on Incident

Indiana Jones

Injured Indiana Jones Stuntman Shares his Story on the incident

For the first time since a terrifying mishap at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the stunt performer who threw himself in front of a runaway boulder to protect a crowd of guests is sharing his story.

Robert Herrick, a veteran cast member with over 30 years of experience at the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular, is recovering from fractured vertebrae after the show’s 400-pound prop boulder derailed on December 30, rolling toward the audience.

Heroic Disney Cast Member Injured Saving Guests from Runaway Boulder at Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular
Photo Credit – crislainyrodrigues on TT

In an exclusive interview with WFTV, Herrick revealed that his reaction was instantaneous.

“I was probably out of my seat before it went over the thing, without any thought of what was going to happen,” Herrick said. “My only thought was that thing couldn’t reach the audience.”

Viral video of the incident showed the massive prop—which Herrick confirmed is “absolutely” 400 pounds—jumping its track and barreling toward the seating area. Herrick, who was performing as a stunt technician in the scene, stepped directly into its path, using his body as a shield. The impact threw him backward violently.

Related – Heroic Disney Cast Member Injured Saving Guests from Runaway Boulder at Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular

“Anyone that sees that and the way it propels me backwards… it’s not 10 pounds,” Herrick noted.

The collision left him with two fractured vertebrae in his neck. He is currently recovering in a neck brace, which he expects to wear for approximately eight weeks.

While social media users and eyewitnesses have hailed him as a hero who “literally saved lives,” Herrick remains humble, crediting his instincts and his deep love for the show rather than bravery.

“I had a difficult time with that moniker,” he admitted when asked about being called a hero. “I think 30-plus years of being on that stage that I love so much… put me in that position. Hero? There was no thought about that at all.”

Battle net
Photo Credit WFTV

Disney officials previously stated they were “focused on supporting our cast member” and conducting a safety review of the show. The boulder sequence has been temporarily modified since the accident.

Despite the painful injury, Herrick’s focus remains on returning to the place he calls his second home.

“I miss my ‘Epic’ family, and I miss the audience,” he said. “I missed that little girl and the big eyes watching the show that I get a chance to make magic for people every day.”

YouTube player

Construction Update: Permits Filed for ‘Bluey’ Takeover at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

New Bluey & Bingo Experience Coming to Walt Disney World Next Summer ()

Disney World Files Construction Permit for Bluey Takeover at Animal Kingdom Conservation Station

The arrival of the Heeler family is inching closer. Walt Disney Imagineering has officially filed a Notice of Commencement for general construction at Conservation Station in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, signaling the start of the transformation for the highly anticipated Bluey and Bingo character experience.

Set to open in the summer of 2026, this new offering will reimagine portions of the Rafiki’s Planet Watch area.

Bluey ()

Interestingly, the permit lists B Morrow Productions as the contractor for the project. This marks a departure from Disney’s typical roster of construction partners. B Morrow Productions describes itself as “one of the industry’s most trusted studios for immersive guest experiences,” specializing in everything from creative concept and master planning to fabrication and final installation. Their involvement suggests a heavy focus on detailed, thematic set design to bring the animated world of Bluey to life.

Guests can expect significant modifications to the existing layout of Conservation Station. According to a recent casting call, the new experience will feature both indoor game zones and an outdoor component that highlights animals native to Australia.

bluey

Current expectations are that the renovation will require the removal of the existing petting zoo area (“Affection Section”) to accommodate the new footprint. Disney has previously described the attraction as an interactive “excursion.” Host actors will guide families through games directly from Bluey episodes—but with animal-themed twists—such as a butterfly version of “Keepy Uppy,” alongside meet-and-greets with Bluey and Bingo.

The project appears to be moving quickly to meet its targeted opening. With general construction now permitted and casting rehearsals scheduled to begin in early May 2026, the experience is on track for a late spring or early summer debut.

This filing follows previous permits regarding infrastructure upgrades, which included electrical work to install a new transformer, disconnect, and relay panels in the facility’s equipment room.

blueycruise

A “Bluey” Year for Disney The Animal Kingdom project is just one piece of a massive Bluey rollout across Disney destinations in 2026.

  • Disneyland Resort: “Bluey’s Best Day Ever!” debuts at the Fantasyland Theatre on March 22.
  • Disney Cruise Line: Select sailings will feature Bluey and Bingo meet-and-greets and dance parties.

Stay tuned as construction ramps up at Rafiki’s Planet Watch!