Disney Springs and CityWalk Score Big in the 2025 Box Office Rankings
Lights, camera, box office bragging rights. Two theme park fan favorite theaters just rolled the red carpet straight into the top 10 movie theaters of 2025, and no surprise, they both live right in the middle of the action. According to box office totals shared by Deadline, the AMC Dine-In Disney Springs 24 landed at an impressive number four with $18.5 million in ticket sales, while the AMC Universal CityWalk Hollywood theater grabbed the number eight spot with $15.1 million. Not too shabby for theaters surrounded by shopping, dining, and more churros than any cinema should reasonably have.
The full list is stacked with heavy hitters like AMC Burbank 30 and AMC Lincoln Square in New York City, but seeing Disney Springs crack the top five is a big win for Walt Disney World fans who love pairing a movie night with dinner and a stroll around the Springs. Over on the West Coast, Universal CityWalk Hollywood proving its box office power just adds another reason that strip stays buzzing long after the park gates close.
If you caught a blockbuster at Disney Springs or CityWalk Hollywood last year, you were part of some serious movie magic. Whether it was a plush recliner, a full meal delivered to your seat, or just that unbeatable theme park energy outside the lobby doors, these theaters clearly delivered a box office-worthy experience.
Disney Casting for Brand-New Bluey Experience Headed to Animal Kingdom
A new casting call for the upcoming Bluey experience at Disney’s Animal Kingdom has revealed exciting clues about the attraction’s scope and debut. The interactive offering is officially slated for Conservation Station at Rafiki’s Planet Watch, giving guests a new reason to hop aboard the Wildlife Express Train this year.
The casting call seeks high-energy host actors for the upcoming attraction, which is categorized as an interactive live performance rather than a traditional stage show. The posting utilizes the same official synopsis previously shared by Disney, emphasizing a focus on engaging guests through direct participation and play.
“Beginning in Summer 2026 at Walt Disney World Resort, you’ll be able to take a fun excursion to Conservation Station in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, where you can play and dance with Bluey and Bingo! Play some of your favorite games from Bluey episodes with a fun animal twist, like butterfly keepy uppy.
Grab the whole family and snap some pictures alongside your Blue Heeler pals to remember this one-of-a-kind adventure. Plus, as part of your wild excursion, step outside to discover an experience with animals native to Bluey’s home country of Australia!”
Disney is searching for “High Energy Actors” to lead the fun, specifically those who can facilitate Bluey’s favorite games with creative “fun animal twists.” Candidates must be skilled in improv, comfortable managing large crowds, and adept at working closely with children to bring the Heeler family’s playful spirit to life.
As part of the audition process, actors are required to perform a specific monologue provided in the casting call. While this gives us a sneak peek into the vibe of the experience, it is important to note that this text may serve as a placeholder and might not reflect the final script used when the attraction debuts.
“Hello! Hello! Welcome to Conservation Station! I’m [NAME] and joining me are my pals Kaitie and Mark.
We’re the P.A.C.K. team – Playful Animal Crew for Kids! Who wants to be part of our Play P.A.C.K.?
<GUESTS respond
You do? Awesome. Alright, if you want to be part of our P.A.C.K. you have to answer two questions. First question… Do you love animals?
<GUESTS respond
Yes! Okay second question…do you love to play?
<GUESTS respond
Yes! You got both answers right! Welcome to the Play P.A.C.K! We love to play…animals love to play…what do you say we play some fun excursions – that’s what we call games – inspired by some of our favorite animals!
<GUESTS respond
Great! Before our first excursion let’s warm up our play muscles!
<The GUIDE and PLAY PALS engage the GUESTS in a warmup game (10 – 15 seconds).”
Applications must be submitted by 11:30 p.m. ET on January 23, 2026, marking the first step in this exciting casting process. Following the initial screening, in-person callbacks are scheduled for February 27, with rehearsals currently slated to begin in early May 2026.
This schedule offers our clearest look yet at the project’s timeline. Depending on the length of the rehearsal period, it is highly likely the new experience will make its official debut sometime in June 2026, just in time for the summer crowds at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Kathryn Hahn Eyed for Mother Gothel in Disney’s Live-Action Tangled
Kathryn Hahn may be trading her chaos magic for a magic flower!
Variety has confirmed that the Agatha All Along breakout star is currently in talks to join Disney’s live-action Tangled adaptation. Hahn is reportedly eyeing the role of the iconic, manipulative villain Mother Gothel, proving that she is far from finished playing the studio’s most delicious antagonists.
While Hahn remains in the “talks” phase, she would join a cast that has already found its heroes. On January 7, Disney officially confirmed that Teagan Croft (Titans) will lead the film as Rapunzel, with Milo Manheim (Zombies) starring alongside her as the roguish Flynn Rider.
As the third lead, Hahn would step into the shoes of the story’s legendary antagonist. In the 2010 animated classic, Mother Gothel is a master manipulator who poses as Rapunzel’s overprotective mother, all while hoarding the girl’s magical hair to maintain her own eternal youth. While these reports have the industry buzzing, Disney has yet to provide an official comment on Hahn’s potential casting.
Stepping behind the camera is Michael Gracey (The Greatest Showman), who is set to direct the production when filming kicks off later this year. The project is being produced by Kristin Burr—whose credits include Cruella and the upcoming Freakier Friday—working from a screenplay by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson, the creative mind behind Do Revenge and Someone Great.
Hahn is currently enjoying a major career high, fresh off her performance in Apple’s awards contender “The Studio,”where she stars as the sharp-tongued film marketing executive Maya Mason. This follows her massive success on Disney+ with “Agatha All Along,” the hit spinoff from “WandaVision” that solidified her as a fan-favorite within the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Up next, she’ll be seen in “Madden,” David O. Russell’s highly anticipated John Madden biopic, joining an elite ensemble cast that includes Christian Bale, Nicolas Cage, Sienna Miller, and John Mulaney. Her impressive resume also includes acclaimed leading roles in series such as “Mrs. Fletcher,” “Tiny Beautiful Things,” and “Transparent.”
The original animated “Tangled” was a global sensation upon its 2010 debut, enchanting audiences and earning nearly $600 million at the worldwide box office. The film’s enduring legacy was built on the performances of its iconic voice cast, which featured Mandy Moore as Rapunzel, Zachary Levi as Flynn Rider, Brad Garrett as Hook Hand, and a show-stopping turn by Donna Murphy as the villainous Mother Gothel.
Opposites Attract! Heat Up Your Look with the New Elemental Wade and Ember Ombre Mini Backpack
If you’re obsessed with the “opposites attract” energy of Disney and Pixar’s Elemental, you are going to flip for the Wade and Ember Ombre Mini Backpack. It’s not just a bag; it’s basically a wearable tribute to the cutest fire-and-water duo ever. Retailing for $90 at Loungefly.com, this backpack is the perfect way to show off your love for the film while keeping your style totally on point.
The first thing you’ll notice is the stunning orange and blue ombre design. The bag literally transitions between their two worlds, blending the fiery heat of Element City with the cool, flowing vibes of the Canal District. Front and center, you’ve got Ember and Wade standing together inside a super cute heart-shaped front pocket. It’s the ultimate “ship” moment captured in faux leather, and it’s honestly hard not to smile every time you look at it.
Loungefly really leaned into the details with this one. To keep the theme going, the side pockets feature distinct symbols for both characters, and the mismatched straps, one bright orange and one cool blue, add that extra pop of personality that makes the bag stand out in a crowd. Whether you’re a “sappy” Wade fan or a “fiery” Ember enthusiast, this backpack lets you carry a piece of their story wherever you go.
Fall in Love With The Disney Valentines Day Collection by Baublebar!
Love is officially in the air and all over our accessories! If you’re looking to add a little extra magic to your February (or honestly, the whole year), the new Disney Valentine’s Day Collection by Baublebar has arrived to steal your heart. Whether you’re planning a romantic park date or just want to treat yourself to some serious sparkle, this 2026 drop is basically a love letter to all things Mickey and Minnie.
First up, let’s talk about the Disney Valentine’s Day Friends Forever Bag Charm ($68). This isn’t just a keychain; it’s a total statement piece for your favorite tote or backpack. It’s packed with extra-special beads and motifs that celebrate the love of the season with your favorite characters. The best part? It’s designed to be a collectible you’ll want to keep on your bag year-round, not just until the chocolate boxes are empty.
For the headband collectors out there, the Minnie Mouse Heart Ears Headband ($54.99) is an absolute must-have. These are bright, playful, and honestly just so easy to love. They feature plush ears covered in pink hearts in various shades and get this: some of those hearts even have pink gemstone accents for that signature Baublebar shimmer. To top it all off, there’s a vibrant pink bow in a puffy, balloon-inspired design that makes the whole look pop.
If you’re looking to level up your jewelry game, the collection has some serious heavy hitters:
Mickey Mouse Pavé Drop Earrings ($38): These are bold, playful, and made for the spotlight. They feature an ombré design with repeating Mickey heads that fade from clear to a deep, romantic red.
Mickey Mouse Heart Charm Necklace ($58): Looking for something sweet and easy to style? This charm necklace is perfect for your everyday stack. It features two pavé Mickey charms and one adorable pink heart, making it the ultimate “everyday magic” accessory.
Which of these pieces are you adding to your wishlist this year? Whether it’s the puffy balloon ears or that beaded bag charm, you really can’t go wrong with a little Baublebar sparkle.
Sparkle Like Royalty: The New Cinderella Lab-Grown Diamond Pandora Charm Collection
If you’ve ever dreamed of a “happily ever after” that involves a little extra shimmer, Pandora is making those dreams a reality. Their latest collaboration brings Disney’s Cinderella to life with a sophisticated twist: lab-grown diamonds. This isn’t just your standard charm collection; it’s a high-end tribute to the classic fairytale, blending sterling silver and 14k gold plating for a look that’s truly fit for a princess.
First up is the piece we’ve all been waiting for the iconic glass slipper. For $215, you can carry your own “glass slipper moment” wherever you go. This sterling silver and 14k gold-plated charm is a total showstopper. It uses light-catching UV resin to give it that magical, translucent glow, but the real star is the 0.012 ct. lab-grown diamond perched right on the toe. Finished with a delicate bow detail, it’s the perfect mix of nostalgia and luxury. Whether you’re a die-hard Disney fan or just love a bit of sparkle, this shoe is a total mood.
Every great collection needs a foundation, and the Storybook Lab-grown Diamond Snake Chain Bracelet ($250) is as charming as it gets. Crafted in sterling silver, the standout feature is the storybook clasp. It’s incredibly detailed with engravings on both sides and features 14k gold-plated pages that actually look like they’re ready to be turned. To top it off, there’s a lab-grown diamond embedded in the design, symbolizing the magic of “styling your next chapter.” It’s the perfect way to keep your favorite memories close to your wrist.
If you’re planning on treating yourself (and let’s be honest, why wouldn’t you?), Pandora has a sweet deal running right now. When you purchase any two select styles from the Disney Princess x Pandora Collection, you’ll receive a free limited-edition jewelry case. It’s the perfect way to keep your new diamonds safe and organized. This collection is likely to move fast, especially with such a cute bonus, so you might want to move before the clock strikes midnight!
If you’ve been dreaming of a way to bring that classic Disney nostalgia into your home without literally lugging a theme park map through your front door, the new Disney Vintage Maps Collection is exactly what you need. Recently spotted at Disney Springs and now live on the Disney Store website, this collection is a total love letter to the “vault” era of Disney Parks. It’s packed with those colorful, retro graphics and brochure art that make any longtime fan’s heart skip a beat.
For those of us who never leave the house without a massive drink in hand, the Disney Parks Vintage Maps 40 oz. Stainless Steel Travel Cup is the undisputed star of the show. It’s triple-insulated to keep your water ice-cold for hours, but the real draw is the allover print. It’s essentially a historical tour in cup form, covered in vibrant graphics of your favorite classic attractions. Whether you’re power-walking through the Magic Kingdom or just navigating your morning commute, it’s a great way to keep those “vacation vibes” alive.
The kitchen items in this drop are equally charming and perfect for adding a pop of color to your cabinets. The Vintage Maps Plate is a special edition piece that features the iconic quote seen at the park entrances: “Here you leave today and enter the world of yesterday, tomorrow and fantasy.” The rim is decorated with those same “vault” icons, making it almost too pretty to actually put food on. To round out the set, the Bowl Setincludes four different designs, each dedicated to a classic land, Tomorrowland, Fantasyland, Adventureland, and Frontierland. It’s a fun, subtle way to pick your “mood” for breakfast.
If you’re looking to spruce up your living space, the Skyway Gondola Faux Succulent Holder is a must-have “deep cut” for fans. Shaped like the retired Skyway buckets that used to glide over the parks, this little planter comes with its own faux succulent, so you don’t even need a green thumb to keep it looking fresh. To maximize the cozy factor, the collection also includes a decorative pillow with Walt’s famous quote, a matching fleece blanket for movie nights, and a journal for jotting down your next trip itinerary. It’s a beautifully curated trip down memory lane that feels both retro and fresh.
Disney Just Dropped the Cutest Starbucks Bow Mugs and Tumbler and We’re Obsessed!
If you’re a fan of the “coquette” aesthetic or just really love a good Disney-Starbucks collab, you’re going to want to clear some shelf space immediately. The latest collection hitting Walt Disney World is all about the bows, and honestly, it might be some of the cutest drinkware we’ve seen in a while. From dainty pink ribbons to shimmering blue castles, these pieces are basically a “treat yourself” moment waiting to happen.
First up is the Pink Walt Disney World Starbucks Mug ($29.99), and it is every bit as dreamy as it sounds. Made of white stoneware, this mug is covered in a sweet all-over print of pink ribbons tied into perfect little bows. One side features the iconic Fantasyland Castle and the Walt Disney World wordmark in a matching pink, while the Starbucks logo is tucked away subtly on the inside.
But the real star of the show? The handle. It’s shaped like the tails of a ribbon, with a faux ribbed bow perched right on the edge of the rim. It’s a total “statement” mug that’ll make your morning coffee feel a lot more magical.
If blue is more your vibe, the Blue Walt Disney World Starbucks Mug ($29.99) is a classic must-have. This 14 oz. ceramic beauty features Cinderella Castle and matching blue bow decals scattered across the white background. Like its pink counterpart, it sports that adorable bow-shaped handle and features the Starbucks and Disney logos inside.
The best part? It’s actually practical! Unlike some specialty mugs that require high-maintenance hand-washing, this one is microwave and dishwasher safe. It’s the perfect blend of “Disney princess style” and “everyday use.”
For those who prefer their caffeine on the go, the Blue Castle Tumbler ($49.99) is a total showstopper. It follows a similar design to the pink pastel winter collection we’ve seen recently, but this time it’s rocking a cool blue theme. The white tumbler has a gorgeous shimmery finish that catches the light, featuring the Disney castle on one side and silver Starbucks lettering on the other.
What makes this tumbler really stand out is the square blue handle, which gives it a modern, architectural look compared to the dainty mugs. It comes topped with a translucent blue twist-off lid and a matching straw, making it the ultimate accessory for a day at the parks or just your daily commute.
Dreamy New Cinderella Castle Shirt and Ears at Magic Kingdom
If you’re planning a trip to the Magic Kingdom, you already know that the “Castle Pic” is the ultimate goal. But to get the shot, you need the fit! Disney just dropped a new Cinderella Castle collection that is basically royalty in fabric form. Whether you’re strolling down Main Street or waiting for the fireworks, these pieces are designed to make you sparkle just as much as the park itself.
First up is the new Cinderella Castle shirt, and it is a total mood. It’s an off-white tee, which gives it a much softer, more vintage vibe than a standard bright white. The centerpiece is a stunning illustration of the castle in a soft blue color, popped with shimmering gold accents. To top it all off, there are gold fireworks exploding around the spires, making it feel like the “Happily Ever After” show is happening right on your chest. It’s the perfect blend of classy and “I’m obsessed with Disney.”
You can’t have the shirt without the crown jewel: the Minnie Mouse Cinderella Castle Ear Headband. For $34.99, these are definitely for the fans who want to lean into the glamour. We’re talking simulated leather ears featuring golden foil silhouettes of the castle, scattered stardust, and actual faceted gemstone studs that catch the Florida sun beautifully. The whole look is tied together with a blindingly bright gold lamé bow and matching headband. If “all that glitters is gold” was an accessory, this would be it.
When you pair the off-white tee with these golden ears, you’re basically walking around in a royal glow-up. It’s a coordinated look that isn’t too “over the top” but still screams Disney style. Whether you’re grabbing a Dole Whip or heading to a character dinner, you’ll be the most glamorous person in the kingdom. Just be prepared for everyone to ask you where you found them!
LEGO Group and Sphere Studios Turn Sphere into a LEGO Star Wars Death Star to mark the reveal of the new LEGO SMART Play Platform
A groundbreaking interactive experience took over the Las Vegas skyline last night as the Sphere’s Exosphere became the stage for a massive LEGO Star Wars game. Designed by Sphere Studios in partnership with the LEGO Group, Disney, and Lucasfilm, the event marked the CES 2026 debut of LEGO SMART Play™—a new technology designed to animate LEGO builds in unprecedented ways.
The demonstration showcased the technology’s potential by turning the 580,000-square-foot display into a playable version of the iconic trench run from Star Wars: A New Hope, confirming that the first wave of SMART Play sets will be Star Wars themed.
Invited guests were able to step into the adventure themselves outside Sphere, taking a seat in a LEGO themed X-wing cockpit to feel the thrill of “blowing up” the LEGO Star Wars Death Star, displayed on Exosphere, the world’s largest LED screen.
Adding to the excitement, quarterback for the New York Giants, Jaxson Dart, was among the special guests taking part in the experience. Dart took a seat in the LEGO Star Wars-inspired X-wing cockpit as he mastered the trench run and embraced the SMART Play-enabled LEGO Star Wars experience.
“I’ve been a massive Star Wars fan my entire life – from dressing up as Anakin Skywalker at my childhood birthday party to my on-field look inspired by his character,” said Jaxson Dart, quarterback for the New York Giants. “Tonight, I felt like a kid again, stepping into the giant LEGO X-Wing and lighting up the Las Vegas skyline in honor of my favorite movies. I’m thrilled to be here celebrating the future of LEGO Star Wars and to share my passion for that galaxy with the next generation of Star Wars fans.”
This interactive experience was created to mark the launch of LEGO SMART Play™. Unveiled at CES 2026, LEGO SMART Play™ represents the most significant evolution of the LEGO System-in-Play since the debut of the LEGO Minifigure in 1978 — redefining what creative play can be.
Powered by the innovative LEGO SMART Brick, which is packed with pioneering, world-first technologies, LEGO SMART Play™ is a groundbreaking new platform that brings LEGO creations to life like never before.
LEGO SMART Play™ will launch on March 1st, 2026 in select markets with LEGO Star Wars™, which is the perfect playground for epic storytelling, unforgettable characters and endless brick-built adventures. This means that for the first time in LEGO Star Wars, with LEGO SMART Play™, the galaxy far, far away…. will play back!
Julia Goldin, Chief Product & Marketing Officer of the LEGO Group, said: “LEGO SMART Play™ marks an exciting new chapter in the LEGO Group’s story; one where creativity, technology, and imagination come together like never before. Showcasing our latest innovation via an incredible experience on Sphere in Las Vegas allowed us to celebrate play on an extraordinary scale by bringing the Star Wars galaxy to life, in alignment with our friends at Disney Consumer Products and Lucasfilm. This experience captures the essence of what the LEGO brand has always stood for: inspiring builders of all ages to create, explore, and push the boundaries of what’s possible!”
Ron Faris, Senior Vice President, Global Brand Marketing, Disney Consumer Products, said: “The LEGO SMART Play system will breathe new life into the Star Wars galaxy, giving fans endless opportunities to create and experience Star Wars at home like never before. The size and scale of Sphere in Las Vegas lent itself perfectly for this first-of-its-kind Star Wars experience recreating the iconic trench run, allowing us to highlight the immersive capabilities of the new LEGO SMART Play system on a new canvas.”
Marcus Ellington, Executive Vice President, Ad Sales and Sponsorships, Sphere, said: “This interactive Exosphere experience – which brings LEGO SMART Play™ and Star Wars to life on an unprecedented scale – marks the first collaboration to leverage Sphere’s new immersive Exosphere technologies, and exemplifies how brands can utilize Sphere to connect with their fans in new ways.”
LEGO SMART Play™ begins its journey in the LEGO Star Wars galaxy with the launch of three ‘All-In-One’ sets, each featuring everything needed for a complete SMART Play experience, including a LEGO SMART Brick with charger, at least one LEGO SMART Minifigure, and a LEGO SMART Tag.
The LEGO SMART Play™ All-in-One sets from LEGO Star Wars will be available for pre-order from January 9th and available to purchase from the 1st March from www.LEGO.com, LEGO Stores and select retailers in launch markets.
LEGO SMART Play will continue to expand through new updates, launches and technology – with the LEGO Group set to reveal more additions in the future.
Family Claims Shoplifting Misunderstanding Led to Removal from Epic Universe
A family trip to celebrate a birthday at Universal Orlando’s new Epic Universe theme park ended in distress after a misunderstanding involving a $16 keychain led to their removal from the park and a year-long ban.
The incident occurred earlier this week when the family, including a mother identified as Dao and her husband, was visiting the park to celebrate their daughter’s birthday. According to the family, the celebration was cut short when they were stopped by park security and accused of retail theft.
The Incident Dao explained that her daughter, who has autism, walked out of a gift shop holding a keychain valued at approximately $16. Dao claims she was unaware her daughter had left the store with the item unpaid. She further stated that her husband was still inside the store at the time, intending to pay for the merchandise.
Despite this explanation, Dao says she was approached by security personnel who informed her she had been caught shoplifting.
“He said, ‘You know I’m security with Universal, and you need to come with us. You’ve been caught shoplifting,'” Dao recounted in an interview.
Security Response and Consequences The situation escalated quickly. Dao says she was taken to an interrogation room, where she attempted to explain that her husband was in the process of paying and that her daughter’s actions were a result of her disability.
However, the explanation did not appear to sway the park’s security team. The family was reportedly escorted off the premises by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and issued a trespass warning, effectively banning them from the property for one year. In addition to the ban, the family received a civil demand letter seeking monetary damages for the alleged theft.
Claims of Insensitivity The family contends that Universal security failed to take their daughter’s disability into account during the confrontation. Dao expressed frustration that the security team seemed either unaware of or indifferent to the circumstances surrounding her daughter’s behavior.
“I don’t think that they considered it at all,” Dao said regarding her daughter’s autism. “It seemed like they had no idea that Universal even had a disability program.”
Legal Action The family has retained attorney Eric Block with Morgan & Morgan, who stated that he has submitted a demand letter to Universal regarding the incident. The family is seeking to clear their name, arguing that the situation was a clear misunderstanding rather than a criminal act.
As of this report, Universal Orlando Resort has not issued a public comment regarding the specific allegations.
TIME Names The Walt Disney Company One of America’s Most IconicCompanies
Cue the castle fireworks and a slow clap, because The Walt Disney Company just earned another major honor. TIME has officially named Disney one of “America’s Most Iconic Companies,” a list recognizing 250 businesses that have helped shape the nation’s economic and cultural identity as the U.S. celebrates its 250th anniversary in 2026. According to TIME, the list highlights companies that go beyond commercial success and are deeply woven into the American story, influencing habits, aspirations, and how generations experience culture.
TIME specifically spotlighted Disney’s role as an enduring leader in media and storytelling, crediting the company with sharing stories that reflect America’s optimism, ambition, and innovative spirit with audiences around the world. Disney CEO Bob Iger echoed that sentiment, noting that for more than a century, Disney characters and stories have been part of the fabric of American life. He emphasized that Walt Disney’s original vision continues to guide the company today, fueling creativity, curiosity, and innovation while pushing storytelling into the future.
Disney was not the only familiar name on the list. ESPN, the country’s leading sports media brand, was also recognized by TIME for its impact on American culture and sports fandom. Together, the honors highlight the massive reach Disney and its brands continue to have across entertainment, sports, and global storytelling.
This recognition also ties neatly into Disney’s ongoing semiquincentennial celebration initiative, “Disney Celebrates America.” Running now and culminating over the July 4, 2026 weekend, the initiative includes special programming, storytelling, and experiences across Disney’s brands that honor the nation’s history, spotlight the people and places that make it unique, and inspire a little extra red, white, and blue magic for generations to come.
