When Disney drops news on us that we weren’t expecting, there are some interesting reactions from fans.
Hollywood Studios
The Animation Courtyard in Hollywood Studios is undergoing a makeover and introducing The Magic of Disney Animation, where guests will experience Disney animation in new and exciting ways. What do the true Disney fans think about this? Let’s take a look!
When we shared the news on Instagram, fans didn’t hold back!
©Disney
For this new offering to come to Hollywood Studios, Star Wars: Launch Bay will be replaced. Many were concerned about the movie props and character meet-and-greets in the space, as well as where they would be moving to.
Star Wars Launch Bay
Others were upset about another area going under construction in the parks, especially in Hollywood Studios. “Another place closing for refurbishment, how many more? Too many changes at the same time.”
©Disney
Right now, Muppets Courtyard is closed as it transforms into Monstropolis, the Monsters, Inc. themed land. This closed two restaurants and one attraction. Many commented on wait time concerns, especially in a park that doesn’t have too many attractions. We’ll be keeping an eye on the wait times to see how they are affected once everything closes.
Monsters, Inc. Concept Art — Posted June 2025 in Hollywood Studios
Some think the whole area isn’t very creative and “the lack of imagination in imagineering is astonishing.” These changes incorporate original Hollywood Studios (or MGM Studios) concepts, as well as building designs straight from Burbank or Disney California Adventure. One person said, “Pass. Not thanks. Do something good and exciting.”
©Disney
Fans also pointed out that the archway isn’t in any of the concept art. Commenters were upset about losing another element of Hollywood Studios that has been there since day one.
The iconic arch!
And believe it or not, there were tons of positive comments! When Disney releases news, fans are quick to share their opinions, and that usually means negative ideas. Still, there were tons of overwhelmingly positive comments, including “love that this area is getting some extra magic.”
©Disney
Another said, “Disney is soooo on the right track!”
Now you tell us: what do you think about The Magic of Disney Animation? Tell us in the comments and keep following Disney Food Blog for more!
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There’s a segment of the public that will gripe no matter what. If they announced a thrill ride was replacing Star Wars Launch Bay, the same people would make comments that all Disney does is replace things with thrill rides and there aren’t things for young children and families. This concept brings us back to some of the more interactive and educational aspects of what the park was when it opened. There were ZERO thrill rides in MGM Studios when it opened. The fastest moving thing was The Great Movie Ride. The park was entirely shows and walk through attractions.
This section of the park has been on life-support for so long that closing it for construction has no impact on anyone. Those making negative comments about more construction apparently don’t realize that nobody goes to Star Wars Launch Bay. The days when people just appreciated things were so much more enjoyable.
I’m a little surprised by the negative comments. So many people complain when their favourite attraction closes and then hark back to the good old days and want long closed attractions back. That’s what seems to be happening here so I assumed people would be overjoyed!
As for lots of construction at DHS, one of my favourite periods of time was when Star Wars and Toy Story lands were in construction. I’m not sure if guests boycotted the park because of the construction or whether Disney chose to reduce capacity at this time but the number of guests in the park seemed a lot less than before so it was so comfortable to go round. I felt more relaxed there too as there was no mad rush to try to get everything done. The atmosphere was great.
I’ve said it before. All the fan negativity every time Disney announces something has gotten old and is played out. Criticizing this before it is even built is just ridiculous. How about we see what is built before deciding you don’t like it, though I have no doubt many are just waiting for the chance to pan it regardless.
Glad to see this nod to the past. I have long missed the old animation studio at the park. I got to see them drawing, inking, and painting for the original Mulan and Lilo & Stitch. And that old animated tour done with Robin Williams was priceless.
Well, darn. I didn’t realize/put two and two togehter that the arch was gone in the art. I am definitely in the camp of those tired of seeing Disney seem to want to get rid of EVERYTHING original, and so much changing all at the same time does make it worse. But the area is underuntilized, and if we can get some nods to come of the classic characters and stories along with something new, that’s great. I too will miss the Star Wars props and experiences, but some of the best ones (e.g. the after hours Star Wars parties!) have been gone for a while. I do worry that this will also be something temporary, under done, or not popular, and the space will go under utilized for years again.
Positive I guess?…..Probably better than what’s there now but I don’t have high expectations. I was hoping for something better. The Star Wars displays and meet and greet seem out of place in this section of the park.
I love that they’re bringing another character drawing class to the parks! Animation is so central to Disney, and it makes total sense with the theming of the area and the original plan for the park. The Animation Experience at Animal Kingdom was one of my favorite things I did on my trip last fall, and I think a lot of people miss it because it’s tucked in such an out of the way spot.
The beautiful art of Disney animation is so important to the history of the franchise. To celebrate it with an area for artistic expression is right on key. My daughter is 30 years old now, and remembers when a Disney artist drew Donald Duck and gave it to her for answering a trivia question. It’s framed on her wall!