Universal Studios Hollywood’s Halloween Horror Nights Reveals Epic Full Line-Up for 2023

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August 10, 2023

Full lineup for Universal Studios Hollywood’s Halloween Horror Nights has been announced

Get ready to be immersed in spine-chilling terror as Universal Studios Hollywood reveals its electrifying roster for Halloween Horror Nights 2023. Prepare for heart-pounding fear with the hair-raising “Evil Dead Rise,” alongside bone-chilling original houses like “Monstruos: The Monsters of Latin America” and the beloved return of “Holidayz in Hell.” The dread-filled festivities kick off on Thursday, September 7, offering a heart-stopping experience on select nights through October 31.

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The complete line-up unfolds through a tapestry of eight haunted houses and the exclusive Terror Tram, all set to send shivers down your spine:

“The Last of Us” plunges you into a fight for survival against terrifying Clickers, Bloaters, and more, inspired by Naughty Dog and PlayStation’s acclaimed video game.
“Stranger Things 4” transports you to Hawkins, Indiana, where a showdown against the malevolent Vecna awaits in the fourth installment of Netflix’s original series.
“The Exorcist: Believer” beckons you into a nightmarish new horror, where two families confront a sinister demonic presence that has taken hold of their young daughters.
“Universal Monsters: Unmasked” delves deeper into the legacy of Universal Monsters, uniting horror icons like The Invisible Man, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, The Phantom of the Opera, and The Hunchback of Notre Dame in a spine-chilling narrative.
“Chucky: Ultimate Kill Count” showcases the notorious slasher doll and his most memorable kills from the hit USA & SYFY series and cult classic films.
“Evil Dead Rise” immerses you in a twisted tale inspired by New Line Cinema’s return to the iconic horror franchise and the 2023 box office sensation.
“Monstruos: The Monsters of Latin America” brings to life the most horrifying ghosts and creatures from Latin American folklore.
“Holidayz in Hell” thrusts you into a hair-raising journey through a series of deranged seasonal celebrations.
“Terror Tram…The Exterminatorz” places you amidst a gripping insect uprising led by the cunning Larry Larva, aiming to eradicate humans from the planet.
- As a bonus, you’ll traverse the Jupiter’s Claim set from the film “Nope,” encountering The Tethered from “Us” in an epic crossover from director Jordan Peele’s blockbuster movies.

Indulge your sinister cravings with an array of horror-themed culinary delights and beverages. To purchase or enjoy alcoholic beverages, you must be 21 years or older with valid photo identification.

“Stranger Things” enthusiasts can savor diverse pizza flavors at Surfer Boy Pizza, relish delightful ice cream creations at Scoops Ahoy, and experience an ’80s-themed Stellar Bar with tantalizing mixed cocktails.
Hollywood & Dine, the quick-service restaurant, undergoes a macabre transformation into a “Chucky”-themed BBQ, serving mouthwatering brisket and Nashville popcorn chicken sandwiches, pulled pork macaroni and cheese, funnel cakes, and themed drinks.
The Carl Laemmle Patio hosts Peacock’s Halloween Horror Bar, offering themed cocktails inspired by “The Purge” and “Chucky,” alongside photo opportunities with scareactors.
Universal Plaza commemorates Dia de Los Muertos with a plethora of Latin Folklore-inspired cocktails, a Lil Cocina Taco Stand, and a margarita bar.

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Guests can take a break from the scares and enjoy select theme park attractions during the event, including “Jurassic World—The Ride,” “Transformers: The Ride-3D,” “Revenge of the Mummy—The Ride,” and “The Simpsons Ride.”

Death Eaters
Dark Arts
Hogwarts Castle
Harry Potter — Death Eaters Dark Arts Hogwarts Castle Harry Potter

“The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” will also be open to visitors during Halloween Horror Nights, offering the chance to experience beloved attractions such as “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” and “Flight of the Hippogriff.” Back by popular demand, Death Eaters—Voldemort’s devoted followers—will roam Hogsmeade village, seeking kindred spirits willing to pledge allegiance to the Dark Lord’s cause.

Universal Studios Hollywood offers a variety of Halloween Horror Night ticket options, including General Admission, Universal Express, After 2 P.M. Day/Night, the premium R.I.P. Tour, the new Early Access Ticket, which provides access to select haunted houses prior to the scheduled event opening (starting at 5:30 p.m., subject to change),and the popular Frequent Fear Pass and Ultimate Fear Pass. For more information about each ticket type and Terms and Conditions, visit www.HalloweenHorrorNights.com.

Ready to book your next epic vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Universal vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel who specializes in Universal destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Universal vacation package through me!

Disney Ceo Bob Iger is Committed to Ending SAG-AFTRA & WGA Strikes

By

Marc Valentine

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August 10, 2023

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Disney Ceo Bob Iger is Committed to Ending SAG-AFTRA & WGA Strikes

Disney CEO Bob Iger took time to once again address the community of artists and actors picketing as part of the SAG/AFTRA strike. You may recall that earlier last month, in an appearance on CNBC’s Squawk Box Iger said the decision by the actors’ and writers’ unions to go on strike was, “very disturbing.”

Iger went on to say, “We’ve talked about disruptive forces on this business and all the challenges we’re facing, the recovery from Covid, which is ongoing, it’s not completely back. Iger added, “This is the worst time in the world to add to that disruption.”

Several actors including Sean Gunn, Bryan Cranston, Tatiana Maslany, and most recently Billy Porter have fired back at Iger in public statements and in the press. During yesterday’s earnings call Iger address his critics and the acting community specifically to improve the relationship between the Walt Disney Company and the artist community.

Disney CEO Bob Iger Addresses Firing Marvel's Ike Perlmutter

During the call, Iger circled back to the actors unions with, “speaking of the content we create, I’d like to say a few words about the ongoing strikes. Nothing is more important to this company than its relationships with the creative community. And that includes actors, writers, animators, directors and producers.

Iger added, “I have deep respect and appreciation for all those who are vital to the extraordinary creative engine that drives this company and our industry. And it is my fervent hope that we quickly find solutions to the issues that have kept us apart these past few months. And I am personally committed to working to achieve this result.”

Check back for more updates on the ongoing actors and writers strike. Let us know your thoughts in a comment, and check out all the news from yesterday’s earnings call in the following articles:

Video: Watch as the Magic Kingdom gets Decorated for Fall/Halloween 2023

By

Sara

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August 10, 2023

Video: Watch as the Magic Kingdom gets Decorated for Fall/Halloween 2023

Watch as Magic Kingdom gets decorated for fall! Disney recently shared a video of the park being transformed into a spooktacular Halloween wonderland overnight.

It may only be August, but fall and Halloween have materialized at Magic Kingdom! Jack-o-Lanterns can be found around every corner, fall Mickey wreaths are hanging on Main Street USA, scarecrows have appeared, and so much more!

Red, yellow, and orange leaf garlands along with red, yellow, and orange banners line the shops on Main Street, and decorate the lamp poles.

It’s amazing how quickly Disney Cast Members get the park transformed overnight! What’s your favorite fall/Halloween decoration?

Ready to plan your fall Disney trip? Contact me for a free vacation quote! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are complimentary, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.

Go Under the Sea with the Little Mermaid Milkshake at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

By

Sara

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August 10, 2023

Go Under the Sea with the Little Mermaid Milkshake at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

World Princess Week is coming up and Disney World is celebrating with a Little Mermaid milkshake at Disney’s Hollywood Studios!

This adorable shake can be found at Hollywood Scoops for $9.49. The milkshake is a vanilla, mango, guava, and ginger Milk Shake topped with whipped cream and a pineapple-guava seashell cake.

Visually, the shake is so cute! It features tones of blue and purple to mimic the ocean and Ariel. The rim of the cup also features blue and purple sugar.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Chip and Company (@chipandco)

Will you be trying this new shake on your next visit?

Ready to plan a visit to Disney World? Contact me for a free vacation quote! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are complimentary.

New Foods Coming to Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party 2023

By

Sara

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August 10, 2023

New Foods Coming to Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party 2023

There are some ghoulishly good new foods coming to Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party this year! On select nights from August 11 through November 1, guests attending the frightfully fun event will want to grab some of these new eats.

Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)

Apple Fritter Milkshake: Salted caramel milkshake topped with green apple whipped cream and an apple fritter (Non-alcoholic) (New)

Cheshire Café

MMMummy Treat: Flaky pastry filled with chocolate-hazelnut filling and topped with white icing stripes and sugar eyes (New) (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)
Queen of Hearts Slushy: Frozen cherry slushy drizzled with black cherry purée and topped with whipped cream and a crown-shaped chocolate piece (Non-alcoholic) (New) (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)

Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

Terrifyin’ Twice-Spiced Chicken Sandwich: Spicy fried chicken breast dipped in hot honey and topped with pepper jack cheese, jalapeño poppers, and bacon (New)
The Snarling Sub: Meatball sub with spicy marinara, pesto and pearl mozzarella “teeth” served on a black roll (new)
Zombie Fingers: Almond cookie fingers, Key lime pie white chocolate ganache, salted caramel crisp pearls, and sugar eyes (New)
River Styx Elixir: Kiwi lemonade with luster dust (Non-alcoholic) (New)

The Friar’s Nook (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

Pain and Panic Brat: Bratwurst, sweet and spicy onion relish, and sriracha mustard (New)
Pain and Panic Loaded Tots: Tots topped with sweet and spicy onion relish, sriracha mustard, and crumbled bratwurst (New)
Buffalo Chicken Hand Pie with spicy ranch drizzle and blue cheese powder (New)

Golden Oak Outpost

Tombstone Tart: Flaky pastry filled with strawberry-jalapeño jam and topped with sprinkles and sugar spiders (New) (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)
Loaded Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet potato fries tossed in cinnamon sugar and topped with marshmallow cream, butterscotch chips, and toffee pieces (New) (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

Liberty Square Market (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during regular park hours)

Black Velvet Whoopie Pie: Black velvet cookie with buttercream and sprinkles topped with a sugar spider (New)

Main Street Bakery

Minnie-shaped Pumpkin Cheesecake: Pumpkin cheesecake and pumpkin coffee mousse topped with a white chocolate candy corn bow (New) (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Café (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

Cajun Burger: Cajun-spiced all-beef patty topped with fried green tomato, Cajun Andouille dip, and Creole remoulade served on a black bun (New)
Bowl of Bones: Bone-in piggy wings fried with fresh jalapeños tossed in Coca-Cola Cherry barbecue sauce (New)
Candy Corn Milkshake: Sweet corn soft-serve topped with whipped cream and sweet potato corn bread nuggets (Non-alcoholic) (New)

Plaza Ice Cream Parlor

Apple Fritter Sundae: Apple fritters topped with choice of ice cream, whipped cream, and sprinkles (New) (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

Sleepy Hollow (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

Char Siu Chicken Wings: Whole chicken wings glazed in char siu and topped with chili threads and garlic (New)
Headless Horseman Cupcake: Spicy cheese-flavored cupcake with lime filling topped with cream cheese buttercream, spicy cheese-flavored snacks, and a chocolate piece (New)
Cinnamon Funnel Cake: Funnel cake topped with pumpkin ice cream, drizzled with pumpkin spiced caramel, and topped with butterscotch chips (New)

Storybook Treats (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

Hades Cone: DOLE Whip mango and habanero soft-serve topped with blue raspberry shell and chili-lime seasoning (New)

Sunshine Tree Terrace (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

Tropical Graveyard: Mango mousse and sour tropical gelatin topped with cookie crumbles, gummy worm, sprinkles, and a tombstone chocolate piece (New)

Churro Cart near Cinderella Castle

Not-So-Poison Apple Churro: Churro rolled in green apple sugar, topped with SNICKERS bar pieces, and drizzled with caramel sauce (New) (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during regular park hours and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party)
Jack Pop: Chocolate fudge brownie with marshmallow filling and topped with a Jack chocolate piece (New) (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)
Sally Pop: Yellow pop with raspberry filling topped with a Sally chocolate piece
(New) (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

Outdoor Vending Cart near The Haunted Mansion (Available Aug. 11 through Nov. 1 during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party only)

Skull Brownie: Mexican-spiced chocolate brownie with dulce de leche filling and sugar eyes (New)

Which of these new foods are you putting on your “must-try” list?

Ready to plan your Halloween visit to Disney World? Contact me for a free vacation quote! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are free, and I’d love to help you plan a magical vacation.

Tickets Now Available for Thanksgiving College Basketball Tournament at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex

By

Chris B

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August 9, 2023

Grab your tickets for this years Thanksgiving College Basketball Tournament at ESPN Wide World of Sports

Tickets are now on sale for the 2023 ESPN Events Invitational taking place Thanksgiving weekend, Nov. 23-26 at Walt Disney World Resort.

The men’s college basketball tournament is set to showcase an array of exciting matchups. The action kicks off with four compelling games on Thanksgiving Day: Penn State goes head-to-head against Texas A&M, Florida Atlantic takes on Butler, Iowa State faces off against Virginia Commonwealth, and Boise State matches up against Virginia Tech. Notably, six of this year’s participating teams were also contenders in the 2023 NCAA Tournament. Notably, FAU made an unprecedented journey to the Final Four, marking a historic milestone for the school.

ESPN-Wide-World-of-Sports-tournament-bracket

This eight-team tournament is scheduled to take place during the Thanksgiving weekend at the Walt Disney World Resort. From Thursday, November 23 to Sunday, November 26, the State Farm Field House at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex near Orlando, Fla, will be the battleground for thrilling basketball action.

Among the participants, six teams were part of the 2023 NCAA Tournament: Florida Atlantic (reaching the Final Four), Penn State (advancing to the second round), as well as Boise State, Iowa State, Texas A&M, and VCU. Noteworthy, three schools in this lineup – Butler (2010 and 2011), Florida Atlantic (2023), and VCU (2011) – have made significant Final Four appearances since 2010.

In the 2023 ESPN Events Invitational, structured as a bracket-style tournament, a total of 12 games will unfold across three days. Each team is set to compete once daily, progressing through the bracket format. The ultimate clash is reserved for Sunday, November 26, where the two unbeaten teams will contend for the championship title.

This marks the 17th year of Walt Disney World’s hosting of the tournament at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. The games will be held once again at the esteemed State Farm Field House, a venue renowned for hosting top-tier basketball competitions, including NBA games and premier youth tournaments.

Tickets Now Available for Thanksgiving College Basketball Tournament at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex

Tickets are on sale now through Ticketmaster.

All-Tournament tickets are available at a $15 discount through Friday, August 11 using the promo code “MAGIC”
Single-Session tickets are available now for the Lower Center Court tier
Single-session tickets for all other tiers will go on sale October 2

Full event schedule and coverage information:

ESPN EVENTS INVITATIONAL

November 23, 24 and 26

State Farm Field House (ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, near Orlando, Fla.)

Date	Time (ET)	Matchup/Event	Network
Thu, Nov. 23	Noon	Penn State vs. Texas A&M	ESPN
	2:30 p.m.	Florida Atlantic vs. Butler	ESPN2
	5:30 p.m.	Iowa State vs. VCU	ESPN2
	8 p.m.	Boise State vs. Virginia Tech	ESPN2 or ESPNU
Fri, Nov. 24	11 a.m.	Semifinal #1	ESPN2
	1:30 p.m.	Consolation Game #1	ESPN+
	5:30 p.m.	Semifinal #2	ESPN2
	8 p.m.	Consolation Game #2	ESPNU
Sun, Nov. 26	10:30 a.m.	Seventh Place Game	ESPNU
	1 p.m.	Championship Game	ESPN
	4 p.m.	Fifth Place Game	ESPN2
	6:30 p.m.	Third Place Game	ESPN2

Ready to book your next magical vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Walt Disney World vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel who specializes in Disney destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Disney vacation package through me!

You can now Cool Off in the Air Conditioning at the Homecomin’ Porch

By

Chris B

-

August 9, 2023

The Homecomin’ Porch is now air conditioned!

There is perhaps no better way to recharge during a Walt Disney World vacation than getting off of your feet and cooling off inside an air conditioned space. When that space is paired with amazing food and refreshing drinks, you have hit the jackpot! Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ at Disney Springs has upped the relax and recharge game by turning their ‘porch’ into a Florida room!

Chef Art Smith took to Instagram to announce the restaurants new ‘Florida Room.’

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Chef Art Smith's Homecomin' (@homecominfl)

In the video, Chef teases a cool room overlooking a beautiful blue lagoon with a cool drink.

As a central Florida resident, I think I found my new go-to spot for a warm Florida weekend afternoon!

About Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin

Comfort Food You’ll Crave

Enjoy the welcoming vibe at this down-home kitchen and shine bar! From starters to main plates, the eatery’s cuisine is inspired by Florida agriculture and the recipes of Chef Art’s family table.

Guests 21 and older can sip on creative libations—including signature moonshine craft cocktails—from the adjacent Southern Shine bar.

The Rise ’n Shine Brunch

Join us for a special Southern-style brunch every Saturday and Sunday from 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM.

Tempt taste buds of all ages with a savory selection of feel-good dishes, including fried chicken and house-made sugar doughnuts, short rib hash and an open-faced biscuit topped with Chef Art’s famous fried chicken, 2 over-easy eggs, pimento cheese and pecan-smoked bacon smothered in sawmill gravy and served with a choice of side.

And what’s brunch without cocktails? Enjoy crafty libations including white peach sangria, mimosas with fresh-squeezed juices and an over-the-top Bloody Mary with all the fixins’. Pinkies up!

Full menu also available after 11:00 AM.

Ready to book your next magical vacation, but don’t know where to start? Want to enjoy a Walt Disney World vacation without the stress of planning, booking, and tracking trip changes and promotions? Contact me today! As an agent with Destinations To Travel who specializes in Disney destinations, I can help you stress less and enjoy your vacation more! The best part? My services are provided at NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Disney vacation package through me!

Disney+ & Hulu Premium Plan Price Increase Coming Soon

By

Chip

-

August 9, 2023

Disney+ & Hulu Premium Plan Price Increase Coming Soon

In the Q3 2023 earnings call held today, Disney made significant announcements regarding pricing adjustments for its streaming platforms, Disney+ and Hulu, along with unveiling an enticing new bundle option for subscribers in the U.S.

Starting on October 12th, a revamped pricing structure will come into effect. For Disney+ Premium (ad-free), subscribers will witness a 27 percent increase, with the monthly cost rising from $10.99 to $13.99. Simultaneously, Hulu’s premium plan will see a 20% escalation, climbing from $14.99 to $17.99 per month. Both streaming services will maintain their existing pricing for the ad-supported options, priced at $7.99 and $9.99 per month, respectively.

Disney-Hulu-Premium-Plan-Price-Increase-Coming-Soon-2

Remarkably, this marks the second price adjustment for Disney+ within a year. Following the introduction of the ad-supported tier in December 2022, the premium offering’s price surged from $7.99 to $10.99. When this upcoming alteration takes effect, the subscription cost will have doubled from the platform’s inaugural price of $6.99 upon its 2019 launch.

Adding further intrigue, Disney has unveiled a novel premium bundle comprising both Disney+ and Hulu, enticingly priced at $19.99 per month. This revelation coincides with Disney’s previous announcement of a forthcoming integrated streaming app experience that combines Disney+ and Hulu, expected to debut sometime this year. Despite the convergence, individual apps for both services will remain accessible for those who opt against bundling their subscriptions.

These strategic pricing updates and the introduction of a new premium bundle showcase Disney’s proactive efforts to cater to the evolving streaming landscape, providing subscribers with diverse options while ensuring quality entertainment experiences. As Disney+ and Hulu continue to capture audiences worldwide, these developments reflect the company’s commitment to delivering exceptional content and value to its valued subscribers.

To read the full third-quarter earnings report for 2023 click here.

Disney+ will Address Password Sharing as Real Priority in 2024

By

Marc Valentine

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August 9, 2023

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Disney+ will Address Password Sharing as Real Priority in 2024

Disney CEO Bob Iger recently shared Walt Disney Corporation Q3 profits and discussed the performance of various Entertainment divisions. Iger focused specifically on streaming revenue, subscription numbers and overall costs. Part of Disney’s overall strategy will be to address Password Sharing in the near future. Disney’s competitor Netflix recently engaged in a password sharing crackdown resulting in an increase of nearly 6 million users. It appears that Disney will engage in a similar crackdown in the coming year.

Iger recognized the problem posed by password sharing and Disney’s ability to analyze its harm to profitability. Iger said, “…we already have the technical capability to monitor much of this. And I’m not gonna give you a specific a specific number, except to say that it’s significant.”

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Iger offered addition insight into a potential timeline for a crackdown. Iger estimated that ” …in calendar 24, we’re going to get at this issue. And so while it is likely, you’ll see some impact in calendar, calendar 24, it’s possible that we won’t be completed, or the work will not be completed within the calendar year.”

Iger added, “What we don’t know, of course, is as we get to work on this, how much of the password sharing as we basically eliminate it, will convert to growth in subs. Obviously, we believe there will be some, but we’re not speculating.”

Password sharing has been identified as “a real priority” accord to Iger who added, “we actually think that there’s an opportunity here to help us grow our business.” So it looks like Disney will soon be following suit with other streamers and execute a crackdown on password sharing to increase revenue and subscriber count.

What are you thoughts on a potential password sharing purge? Let us know your thoughts in a comment. Check back for updates regarding this news story and other related topics from the earnings call here at Chip & Company.

Disney CEO Bob Iger Comments on Decline in Disney World Attendance

By

Chip

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August 9, 2023

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Disney CEO Bob Iger Comments on Decline in Disney World Attendance

During today’s Q3 earnings call, Bob Iger, the CEO of Disney, took a moment in his opening remarks to address recent declines observed at Walt Disney World.

Iger highlighted that there has been a mild softening in performance at Walt Disney World in comparison to the prior year, which followed the resounding success of the “highly successful 50th-anniversary celebration.”

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As he reiterated from previous discussions, Iger underlined that the post-COVID pent-up demand in Florida is gradually stabilizing, leading to a slight softening in various significant tourism markets within the state. Additionally, the robust value of the dollar is projected to continue tempering international visitation to the region.

Iger went on to emphasize that, notwithstanding the recent fluctuations, Walt Disney World continues to outperform its pre-COVID levels, boasting an impressive 21% increase in revenue and a remarkable 29% surge in operating income compared to fiscal year 2019, once adjusted for the accelerated depreciation related to Star Cruiser.

Concluding on a positive note, Iger affirmed that the theme park experience at Walt Disney World consistently garners favorable guest ratings, reflecting the company’s unwavering commitment to providing a memorable and enjoyable experience. Furthermore, early indicators display strong enthusiasm from guests eager to plan future visits, with a notable uptick in demand for the recently reintroduced annual passes. This promising trend signals a continued bright outlook for the future of Walt Disney World and its enduring appeal to visitors.

It should be noted while Disney World Attendance did drop in Q3 2023 Disney Parks Revenue for the Third Quarter of 2023 Increased 13% to $8.3 Billion.

Disney Parks Revenue for the Third Quarter of 2023 Increased 13% to $8.3 Billion

By

Marc Valentine

-

August 9, 2023

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Disney Parks Revenue for the Third Quarter of 2023 Increased 13% to $8.3 Billion

Ahead of it’s investors earnings call Disney released its third quarter financial report. Disney Parks, Experiences and Products revenues for the quarter increased 13% to $8.3 billion. The segment operating income increased 11% to 2.4 billion. The growth largely due to the performance of international parks. Domestic parks had a slightly lower performance overall.

Disney cited a higher overall operational cost, as a result of Shanghai Disney being open for the entirety of the third quarter as opposed to 3 days in the prior year’s quarter. The closure from last year’s quarter stemming from Covid-19. Hong Kong Disneyland also had similar differences from the previous yea. Hong Kong was open for 72 days compared to 54 days in the prior year quarter.

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Disney Parks Revenue experienced a decline in domestic parks and results, partly resulting from lower unit sales of the Disney Vacation Club. This decline was offset by increases at Disney Cruise Line.

Bob Iger cited “softer” revenues in the call. The report details, “Lower operating income at our domestic parks and resorts was attributable to a decrease at Walt Disney World Resort, while results at Disneyland Resort were up modestly compared to the prior-year quarter. The decrease in Disney Parks Revenue at Walt Disney World Resort was primarily due to higher costs and lower volumes.”

“The increase in costs was attributable to inflation and accelerated depreciation related to the planned closure of Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser. Lower volumes were due to decreases in occupied room nights and attendance.”

“At Disneyland Resort, higher attendance and increased guest spending were largely offset by higher costs driven by inflation. Guest spending growth was primarily due to an increase in average ticket prices.”

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A decrease at Disney merchandise licensing business stemmed from lower revenue from merchandise based on Star Wars, Toy Story and Avengers. Overall Disney is showing stronger than anticipated performance in both Shanghai and Hong Kong, with slight decreases in domestic parks, but Iger remained confident in the potential for this segment of the company.

Stay tuned for more updates and news from the Walt Disney Company’s Third Quarter 2023 Financial Results Conference Call.

Disney+ Subscriber Count Drops in the Third Quarter of 2023

By

Chip

-

August 9, 2023

Disney-Subscriber-Count-Drop-in-the-Third-Quarter-of-2023

Disney+ Subscriber Count Drops in the Third Quarter of 2023

The Walt Disney Co. has displayed a significant reduction in its streaming losses during the second quarter, even as it witnessed a departure of 12.5 million subscribers from its Disney+ Hotstar streaming platform in India.

In this quarter, Disney impressively surpassed earnings per share targets set by Wall Street, though it slightly missed the mark on revenue. The entertainment giant reported total revenue of $22.3 billion, marking a 4% increase from the same quarter the previous year. Meanwhile, the operating income stood at $3.6 billion, reflecting a 6% decrease.

Addressing previous warnings to Wall Street, Disney executives anticipated subscriber losses for the Disney+ Hotstar service due to a strategic shift away from low-margin subscribers. This transition, coupled with the loss of significant sports rights in the region, contributed to a noticeable churn in the Hotstar platform.

Notably, losses within the direct-to-consumer unit were halved compared to the corresponding period last year. The direct-to-consumer operations reported a loss of $512 million, a stark contrast to the $1 billion loss reported in 2022. However, operating income for Disney’s linear networks experienced a 23% decline, amounting to $1.9 billion. On a brighter note, Disney’s Parks, Experiences, and Products arm recorded a 13% surge in revenue, reaching $8.3 billion, while its operating income witnessed an 11% increase, totaling $2.4 billion.

Beyond these figures, Disney achieved a notable gain of 800,000 subscribers in other global regions. Within the U.S. and Canada, Disney+ experienced a slight loss of 300,000 subscribers, whereas the streaming-exclusive segment of Hulu observed a comparable gain of subscribers.

As Disney navigates this dynamic landscape, the second quarter’s results serve as a testament to the company’s strategic resilience and adaptability. While challenges persist, the company’s multifaceted operations and global reach continue to showcase its enduring prowess and capacity for growth.

“Our results this quarter are reflective of what we’ve accomplished through the unprecedented
the transformation we’re undertaking at Disney to restructure the company, improve efficiencies, and restore creativity to the center of our business,” said Robert A. Iger, Chief Executive Officer, The Walt Disney Company.

“In the eight months since my return, these important changes are creating a more cost-effective, coordinated, and streamlined approach to our operations that has put us on track to exceed our
initial goal of $5.5 billion in savings as well as improved our direct-to-consumer operating income by roughly $1 billion in just three quarters.

While there is still more to do, I’m incredibly confident in Disney’s long-term trajectory because of the work we’ve done, the team we now have in place, and because of Disney’s core foundation of creative excellence and popular brands and franchises.”

To read the full third-quarter earnings report for 2023 click here.