Third Round of Disney Layoffs Underway Company-Wide

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May 23, 2023

Third Round of Disney Layoffs Underway Company-Wide

The third wave of Company-Wide Disney layoffs is underway now according to Deadline.

Following our previous report, it has been confirmed that the ongoing cuts at Disney are estimated to affect more than 2,500 jobs across various divisions within the company. While Parks and Resorts remain relatively unaffected, the current round of layoffs is not specific to any particular division. Sources indicate that television, which experienced significant cuts in the previous round, will see fewer layoffs this time around.

As previously outlined by Disney CEO Bob Iger in late March, these layoffs mark the conclusion of the significant downsizing efforts for the foreseeable future. However, there may still be some smaller-scale cuts expected in the coming months, according to insiders.

The initial wave of layoffs commenced on March 27th, when Iger announced the plan for three rounds of workforce reductions, ultimately resulting in a reduction of approximately 7,000 employees.

The second wave, which was the largest, began on April 24 and led to the elimination of an additional 4,000 positions. The company had previously indicated that a third round of layoffs would occur before the start of summer.

These new layoffs coincide with the challenges faced by media companies due to the ongoing writers’ strike, causing disruptions in film and TV development and production.

Disney had previously revealed plans to achieve $5.5 billion in cost savings through these workforce reductions and other austerity measures. Staff cuts will also impact ESPN and Parks, Experiences, and Products, alongside the Entertainment division. It is important to note that frontline operational workers at the company’s theme parks are not expected to be affected.

Iger initiated plans for downsizing shortly after resuming his role as Disney CEO in November, focusing on streamlining the centralized distribution organization established by his predecessor, Bob Chapek.

As part of the cost-cutting measures, Disney is also beginning to remove several titles from its streaming platforms this week.

Disney News Highlights: Roundup Rodeo Removes “Big Pencil” Gag, More Park “Lands” Not More Parks According to Josh D’Amaro, Disney World Operated Food Trucks Closing, New Cinderella Loungefly

By

Greg Gately

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May 23, 2023

Disney News Highlights: Roundup Rodeo Removes “Big Pencil” Gag, More Park “Lands” Not More Parks According to Josh D’Amaro, Disney World Operated Food Trucks Closing, New Cinderella Loungefly.

Final Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser is Now Sold Out Final Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser is Now Sold Out. News broke last week that Disney will be permanently closing the Galactic Starcruiser, with the final voyage being from Sept 28th to the 30th, 2023.

New Cinderella Loungefly Backpack Available At Walt Disney World! This new Cinderella Loungefly Backpack is a dream come true! Is part of the Disney100 Decades 1950’s collection and it can be yours for $88. You can get yours at retail stores around Walt Disney World, as well as, online at shopDisney.

Disney Parks Chairman, Josh D’Amaro, Provides Insight on the Closure of Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser During the JP Morgan Global Technology, Media & Communications Conference, Disney Parks Chairman Josh D’Amaro shed light on the decision to close the highly anticipated Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser later this year.

Tickets are on sale for Brightline trips between Orlando and South Florida It is very soon going to be easier to travel from the Orlando metro area to southern Florida. Tickets are now on sale for the eagerly awaited Brightline expansion.

Disney News Highlights

Figment Little Golden Book Coming to Amazon in January 2024 Join Figment, the beloved purple dragon from Disney’s EPCOT theme park, on a magical adventure into the realms of imagination with this delightful Little Golden Book! Perfect for children ages 2 to 5, as well as Disney Parks fans and Little Golden Book collectors of all ages.

Disney Parks Chairman Josh D’Amaro Hints at Exciting and Ambitious Expansion Plans for Magic Kingdom and Disneyland Disney Parks Chairman, Josh D’Amaro, Discusses Expanding Disneyland and Magic Kingdom in Exciting Park Updates

Walt Disney World to Close Its Disney-Operated Food Trucks Walt Disney World is planning on closing its Disney-operated food trucks. Those include the ones located at Disney Springs

5 Walt Disney World Attractions To Skip If There Is a Long Line Not all attractions are created equal, even at Disney. This has been true since the creation of Disneyland, with some rides being known as an “E-Ticket” or top-tier attraction while others were lesser A, B, C, or D tiers.

Benefits of Using a Travel Agent for your Disney Vacation Today is National Travel Agent Day! To celebrate, I’m going to share the benefits of using a travel agent for your next Disney vacation. Whether you want to visit Disney World, Disneyland, take a Disney cruise, experience Adventures by Disney, or any Disney destination, there are some valuable benefits to using my services!

Toy Story Land’s Roundup Rodeo BBQ Retires Giant Pencils Due to Ongoing Guest Theft It seems like the actions of a few have once again ruined things for the many. The giant pencils at Roundup Rodeo BBQ in Disney’s Hollywood Studios are being retired due to being stolen by guests.

The First Rotten Tomatoes Reviews are in for Disney’s Live-Action The Little Mermaid The highly anticipated live-action adaptation of Disney’s beloved classic, “The Little Mermaid,” has made its splashy debut, and the first reviews are now surfacing on Rotten Tomatoes. As fans await the enchanting tale’s arrival on the silver screen, critics have weighed in, sharing their thoughts on this new rendition.

Ray Stevenson, Celebrated Actor from Star Wars & Marvel Passes Away at 58 Celebrated Actor from Marvel’s Thor, HBO’s Rome, and Star Wars: Ahsoka Ray Stevenson Passes Away at 58 according to Stevenson’s publicist and the Wrap.

Disney Parks Chairman Josh D’Amaro Affirms Disney’s Commitment to Streamlining the Park Experience

By

Sara

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May 22, 2023

Disney Parks Chairman Josh D’Amaro Affirms Disney’s Commitment to Streamlining the Park Experience

Disney Parks Chairman, Josh D’Amaro, recently said that Disney will continue to try to simplify the theme park experience for guests. This cam after the parks have received a lot of feedback that it is overwhelming and overly complicated to visit the parks.

D’Amaro spoke in a question-and-answer session at the JP Morgan Global Technology, Media & Communications Conference yesterday. He said the company is listening to guests and will continue to make adjustments to the guest experience. He referred to the coming park pass reservation changes as an example of an improvement based on guest feedback.

Another guest concern is the price of tickets. D’Amaro said that variable and flexible pricing helps to make Disney’s parks more accessible by offering entry-level ticket pricing during certain seasons, whereas on peak days, more aggressive pricing is in place to handle demand.

Disney has also said changes will be coming to make Disney Genie+ easier to use. “Our goal is to give you the opportunity to spend less time planning in the park and more time enjoying your visit with friends and family. While we are not yet able to share specific details, we look forward to sharing more information at a later date.”

What are your thoughts? Is planning a visit to Disney World complicated?

Want help planning your Disney trip and understanding all the steps? Contact me for a free vacation quote! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel, my services are complimentary, and I can help take the stress out of planning!

Toy Story Land’s Roundup Rodeo BBQ Retires Giant Pencils Due to Ongoing Guest Theft

By

Sara

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May 22, 2023

Toy Story Land’s Roundup Rodeo BBQ Retires Giant Pencils Due to Ongoing Guest Theft

It seems like the actions of a few have once again ruined things for the many. The giant pencils at Roundup Rodeo BBQ in Disney’s Hollywood Studios are being retired due to being stolen by guests.

Part of the theming and storyline of Roundup Rodeo BBQ is that guests are the size of toys. When it comes time to sign the bill at the end of their meal, guests are brought a giant pencil with a regular pen embedded inside. It’s a super fun and cute touch to the dining experience.

Recently, however, guests have been given normal pens to sign their bill. When asked why, cast members have shared it is due to the giant pencils being stolen and there are no longer enough for every server to have one.

Here’s what we want to know-HOW does one steal a roughly 2-foot long giant pencil without anyone noticing?! Theft of novel props like this isn’t anything new, but it’s sad that everyone else has to miss out on a fun element because others can’t behave.

Did you get to experience Roundup Rodeo BBQ with the fun giant pencils?

Want to visit Disney’s Hollywood Studios? Contact me today for a free vacation quote! I am a travel agent with Destinations to Travel and my services are complimentary.

Walt Disney World to Close Its Disney-Operated Food Trucks

By

Sara

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May 22, 2023

Walt Disney World to Close Its Disney-Operated Food Trucks

Walt Disney World is planning on closing its Disney-operated food trucks. Those include the ones located at Disney Springs.

Disney-operated food trucks debuted at Disney World in 2014 when Downtown Disney was being transformed into Disney Springs. There were originally four food trucks offering fan-favorite dishes from the theme parks, including Superstar Catering, Fantasy Fare, World Showcase of Flavors, and Namaste Cafe. Other food trucks have joined the line-up including Mac ‘n’ Cheese and Hot Diggity Dog.

Third-party operated food trucks are also available at Disney World. These food trucks will remain.

The Disney-operated food trucks will be phased out over the coming months. More third-party operated food trucks could take their place.

Do you like the food truck options at Disney World?

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

Ray Stevenson, Celebrated Actor from Star Wars & Marvel Passes Away at 58

By

Chip

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May 22, 2023

Ray Stevenson, Celebrated Actor from Star Wars & Marvel Passes Away at 58

Celebrated Actor from Marvel’s Thor, HBO’s Rome, and Star Wars: Ahsoka Ray Stevenson Passes Away at 58 according to Stevenson’s publicist and the Wrap.

George Raymond Stevenson, widely known as Ray Stevenson, was born in Lisburn, Northern Ireland, on May 25, 1964. He was the second of three sons, growing up in a family with his father serving as a Royal Air Force pilot. At the age of eight, Stevenson relocated to England and later pursued his passion for acting by attending the prestigious Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. He successfully graduated from the school at the age of 29, embarking on a remarkable career in the entertainment industry.

Stevenson’s presence in both films and television was felt since the early 1990s, establishing himself as a versatile actor with a wide range of roles. Throughout his career, he captivated audiences with his exceptional performances and undeniable talent.

With a notable filmography spanning various genres, Stevenson left an indelible mark in popular franchises such as Marvel’s Thor, where he portrayed the character Volstagg, and HBO’s Rome, where he delivered a memorable portrayal of Titus Pullo. Additionally, his work extended to the Star Wars universe, lending his voice to significant characters in animated series and eagerly anticipated upcoming projects, including the highly anticipated live-action Star Wars: Ahsoka.

Stevenson’s dedication to his craft and his ability to bring depth and authenticity to his characters made him a respected figure in the entertainment industry. His contributions will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for years to come.

As we reflect on the life of George Raymond Stevenson, we celebrate his achievements, his immense talent, and the legacy he leaves behind. He will be remembered as a gifted actor who enriched our screens with his remarkable performances.

Disney Parks Chairman Josh D’Amaro Hints at Exciting and Ambitious Expansion Plans for Magic Kingdom and Disneyland

By

Chip

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May 22, 2023

Disney Parks Chairman Josh D’Amaro Hints at Exciting and Ambitious Expansion Plans for Magic Kingdom and Disneyland

Disney Parks Chairman, Josh D’Amaro, Discusses Expanding Disneyland and Magic Kingdom in Exciting Park Updates

During the JP Morgan Global Technology, Media & Communications Conference, Josh D’Amaro, Disney Parks Chairman, shared insights into the expansion plans for two iconic domestic parks: Disneyland in Anaheim and Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World.

D’Amaro emphasized that the management teams and Imagineers at both parks are constantly striving to enhance the guest experience while also increasing capacity. He expressed that adding attractions is one of the key ways Disney achieves this goal. For instance, the recent addition of Tron: Lightcycle / Run outside the park’s border boundary expanded Magic Kingdom’s physical space and introduced a new attraction, effectively boosting capacity.

Similarly, Disneyland welcomed Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway and unveiled the reimagined Toontown, elevating the park’s current capacity. D’Amaro emphasized that there is ample opportunity within the existing park footprints to further increase capacity by introducing additional attractions or reimagining spaces.

Excitingly, D’Amaro revealed that Disney is not limited to the current park boundaries. They have plans to utilize space both within and beyond the park berms, indicating a willingness to expand “pretty aggressively” at Magic Kingdom and Disneyland in Anaheim. This approach aligns with Disney’s history of utilizing berms to maximize capacity.

As Disney continues to push boundaries and explore new possibilities, guests can anticipate thrilling expansions and experiences within these iconic parks. D’Amaro’s remarks underscore the company’s dedication to delivering unforgettable moments while ensuring the parks can comfortably accommodate guests and provide exceptional entertainment.

With D’Amaro’s vision and the talented teams at Disneyland and Magic Kingdom, fans can look forward to an exciting future filled with innovation, beloved attractions, and unparalleled magic. Stay tuned for further updates as Disney continues to shape the future of these iconic destinations.

Disneyland Unveils Extensive 30-Year Plan for Theme Park Expansion

Disneyland will be sharing its 30-year plan for theme park expansion with the Anaheim Planning Commission and City Council soon! Yesterday, Disney unveiled its plans to Orange County business leaders. The Anaheim theme park resort district is going to be extensively reimagined over the next 3 decades.

Ken Potrock, Disneyland Resort President, spoke about the DisneylandForward proposal to the OC Forum at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel. The proposal envisions extensive theme park, retail and parking expansion within the resort district boundaries.

“To put it simply, DisneylandForward sets the stage for significant and multi-decade investment in the future. This is the next generation of the Disneyland resort,” Potrock told the attendees. “When Disney invests, all boats rise and everyone benefits.”

You Need This Cinderella Castle Wall Hook In Your Home!

By

Ana Leal

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May 22, 2023

You Need This Cinderella Castle Wall Hook In Your Home!

Add an extra touch of magic to any room with this Cinderella Castle Wall Hook created by RocketsCustomPrints on Etsy for $9. You can order yours here!

The 3D printed wall hook is shaped like Cinderella Castle and it comes in 5 different colors: Gold, white, black, light blue and pink. You can even request a special color if they don’t offer one that works for you.

The wall hook can hold up to 10lbs and comes with a 3M command picture hanging velcro strip attached to the back which allows you to hang this without damaging your walls.

Mickey And Minnie’s Runaway Railway MagicBand+ Available At Hollywood Studios!

By

Ana Leal

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May 22, 2023

Mickey And Minnie’s Runaway Railway MagicBand+ Available At Hollywood Studios!

Get all aboard the fun with this Mickey And Minnie’s Runaway Railway MagicBand+ spotted at Hollywood Studios for $54.99! You can also order yours online at shopDisney and get immerse in Disney stories every time you visit Disney World.

It features a red gingham pattern that remind us to a picnic out in the summer! In the middle Chuuby is singing some fun tunes, Mickey serenading Minnie on one side and Pluto holding a picnic basket on the other.

Remember your MagicBand+ allows you to customize a full spectrum of color changing lights that interact with select nighttime spectaculars and features gesture recognition enabling magical surprises, bluetooth pairing and connectivity to smart devices and more!

Pop Century Minnie Ears Spotted At Disney World!

By

Ana Leal

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May 22, 2023

Pop Century Minnie Ears Spotted At Disney World!

We found the grooviest ear headband at Disney’s Pop Century Resort! The Pop Century Minnie Ears are available now for $29.99 and are so unique and fun that you definitely need them in your collection.

The ear headband features black and white sequined records as ears, a hint to the ’80s, and a colorful bow with flowers that remind us of the ’60s plus a Disney’s Pop Century Resort charm in the middle.

The headband is purple on the inside and bright blue on the outside, reminding us a bit of the 90s. We think is a great design to add a pop of color to your style and go back to the amazing decades in the past!

The First Rotten Tomatoes Reviews are in for Disney’s Live-Action The Little Mermaid

By

Chip

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May 22, 2023

The First Rotten Tomatoes Reviews are in for Disney’s Live-Action The Little Mermaid

The highly anticipated live-action adaptation of Disney’s beloved classic, “The Little Mermaid,” has made its splashy debut, and the first reviews are now surfacing on Rotten Tomatoes. As fans await the enchanting tale’s arrival on the silver screen, critics have weighed in, sharing their thoughts on this new rendition.

With the mesmerizing tale of Ariel, the curious young mermaid, and her dream of exploring the human world, expectations were high for this adaptation. According to the initial Rotten Tomatoes reviews, the film manages to capture the timeless magic of the original while infusing it with fresh perspectives and modern elements.

Few Critics have applauded the stunning visuals and the way the film transports audiences into the underwater kingdom, painting a vivid and immersive world. The performances of the talented cast have also been praised, with particular accolades for the lead actress Halle Bailey in the role of Ariel, who effortlessly brings the beloved character to life with her charm and captivating voice.

The revamped storyline and additions to the narrative have garnered mixed responses, with some critics embracing the fresh takes on familiar themes, while others yearned for a more faithful adaptation. However, the majority agree that the film successfully maintains the spirit of the original and delivers an engaging and heartfelt experience for viewers of all ages.

Ultimately, it is up to audiences to form their own opinions and immerse themselves in the world of Disney’s live-action “The Little Mermaid.” Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering the story for the first time, the film promises an unforgettable journey that will transport you beneath the waves and into a world of adventure, wonder, and unforgettable melodies.

With the first Rotten Tomatoes reviews now surfacing, anticipation for the film continues to grow. As the release date approaches, audiences eagerly await the opportunity to experience this beloved tale in a whole new light. Get ready to dive into the magic of “The Little Mermaid” as it takes its place among Disney’s treasured live-action adaptations on May 26th.

Tickets are on sale for Brightline trips between Orlando and South Florida

By

Chris B

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May 22, 2023

Passengers can now start to book tickets for Brightline service between Orlando and South Florida.

It is very soon going to be easier to travel from the Orlando metro area to southern Florida. Tickets are now on sale for the eagerly awaited Brightline expansion.

According to the ticketing info, service from Orlando to Miami will begin on September 1, 2023. 16 daily round trips will be scheduled, with hourly departures between Miami and Orlando. A ticket from Orlando to Miami will be priced at $79 for SMART and $149 for PREMIUM for one-way fairs, with SMART fare bundles for families of four costing less than $199 one way.

Passengers in Orlado will board at the new Brightline station located at Orlando International Airport. The station, which spans 37,350 square feet, is located in the new 80,000 sq. ft. Train Station facility adjacent to Terminal C. Transportation and mobility options at the Orlando Station include Brightline’s first and last-mile service, Brightline+. The Brightline+ service allows you to add an Uber to your train ticket, ensuring you have transportation from the station to your final destination.

No word yet on when service on the future expansion from Orlando to Tampa will begin.

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!