The Muppets takeover of the Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster has proved controversial amongst some Disney fans, but the truth is it may be one of the best things to happen to the Muppets in years!
©Disney
When Disney surprisingly announced that the Muppets would be bumping Aerosmith from the coaster last year, fan reaction was somewhat conflicted, with many pointing out that it was awkward for the kid-friendly Muppets to be tied to a thrill ride, and even questioning how they could thematically fit in the park’s Sunset Boulevard area. While there is arguably some merit to these complaints, we’d argue that the potential good greatly outweighs them.
Keeps the Muppets in Hollywood Studios
First and foremost, the Muppet takeover of the Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster keeps the Muppets in Hollywood Studios. With the removal of Muppet*Vision 3D, PizzeRizzo, and the entirety of the former Muppet Courtyard, there was a chance that the characters – who have been an integral part of the park since its earliest days as the Disney/MGM Studios – could have been gone from the park for good. Relatedly…
Can we just move all of this over to the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster area?
Larger Presence?
During the park’s early years, The Muppets were a major part of Hollywood Studios. The characters were central to advertising campaigns, and Muppet merchandise was available throughout the park, including at a dedicated Muppet store near the Muppet*Vision exit.
The former Stage 1 Company Store
However, in recent years, that store has been closed and what was once a bountiful amount of merchandise and advertising had slowed to a trickle. However, with the Muppets being front and center on one of the park’s premier attractions, they’ll likely be in the top tier of Hollywood Studios characters once again.
How CUTE is this?! We may see a lot more like this SOON!
Younger Fans
Speaking of that premier attraction, while the “appropriateness” of the Muppets being used for a thrilling coaster has been questioned, there’s no denying that the attraction appeals to a younger demographic that may be unfamiliar with the characters, and could potentially come away very interested in Kermit and Co.
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster
Maybe More Muppets?
If the Muppets’ takeover of the Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster is successful and well-received, there’s a strong chance it could lead to a larger presence at the park, potentially with concepts like a Muppet restaurant or even the hoped-for-by-many return of Muppet*Vision 3D maybe being back on the table.
Muppet*Vision 3D
The Muppet takeover of the Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster might be leading to a NEW golden age of Muppet offerings at Hollywood Studios. Stay tuned to DFB for more thoughts on Disney World’s evolution.
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With Mobility issues, the Muppet show was something I could see. Unfortunately I’ll be unable to do a coaster. ☹️
I can’t ride roller coasters, so I’m disappointed that there won’t be a Muppet attraction that I can experience. On the other hand, I am excited about the possibility of a new Muppet merch location at the ride’s exit.
I think a more peaceful transition would have been easier and more profitable. Why couldnt they make a story including Aerosmith ,
Then sell the last ride with Aerosmith or retiring shirts hats etc. I rode it it in June , I thought for sure I could get a shirt with Aerosmith on it. Not one in the gift shop. Giving the state of the band and Steven, fans would really buy them.