At the D23 Expo 2022, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Chairman Josh D’Amaro made several exciting announcements about the future of Walt Disney World Resort and beyond.
While I’m excited about the news Josh covered, let’s take a closer look at the magical news for Walt Disney World, including all-new attractions, the return of several fan favorites, and the addition of beloved characters here.
Ready to begin … Those words will fill the air with the popular anthem “Happily Ever After” when an updated nighttime spectacular lights up the skies at Magic Kingdom Park in 2023.
That won’t be the only addition lighting up the skies at Magic Kingdom Park. Neon lights and speeding lightcycles will fill Tomorrowland as your chance to enter the grid with TRON Lightcycle / Run arrives in spring 2023.
You’ll climb aboard your very own Lightcycle and race through a dark, computerized world alongside your family and friends.
As you swoop and swerve throughout the course, your team will compete to be the first to race through eight Energy Gates and claim victory.
Foolish mortals, prepare yourselves for a new happy haunt at the Haunted Mansion.
The Hatbox Ghost has heard your calls and will materialize next year.
You may recognize this popular character from the attraction at Disneyland Resort in California.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will take you along with Princess Tiana, Prince Naveen and their friends as they host a party at Tiana’s Place for the people of New Orleans.
It’s up to us to help find the missing ingredient when this exciting new attraction opens in late 2024.
The multi-year transformation of EPCOT will soon reach another major milestone with the completion of the World Celebration neighborhood in late 2023.
With lush, green space for you to relax, plus the opening of Communicore Hall and Communicore Plaza, this central location in the park will be the new home for festivals and the perfect space to gather with family and friends.
It will also be home to Dreamers Point, an inspiring new area where you can view the new Walt Disney statue called “Walt the Dreamer.”
Over in World Nature – the EPCOT neighborhood dedicated to understanding and preserving the beauty, awe, and balance of the natural world – we’re excited to share that Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana, will also open in late 2023.
The new exploration trail will allow guests to learn about the story of water on our planet.
As you may have seen through Moana’s bond with the ocean, water has a mind of its own, and you’ll get to interact with it throughout this attraction.
Imagination has always been a core theme at EPCOT, with attractions and experiences that push the boundaries.
One key character always comes to mind when we think about imagination, and he’s coming to life in a whole new way by the end of next year.
David Roark, photographer
As we look ahead to the future and the celebration of the Walt Disney Company’s 100th anniversary, we’re excited to share that a new nighttime spectacular is in the works for EPCOT.
The new show is currently in development and will debut late next year, carrying on the park’s legacy of inspiring nighttime entertainment that unites guests around World Showcase Lagoon.
I cannot wait to see all of these at the Walt Disney World Resort!!!
Disney Branded Television, home to some of the most iconic stories and characters in the Disney canon, is bringing its Disney magic to kids and families and Disney fans of all ages with its first-ever D23 Expo showcase, “Disney’s Epic Entertainment Showcase: The Musical: The Extravaganza!,” hosted by Raven-Symoné (@ravensymone) and Lilly Singh (@lilly) on Saturday, September 10, at 3:30 p.m. in Hall D23.
This fan extravaganza will feature big news, big stars, big musical performances, and big previews of upcoming series, movies, and specials across Disney+, Disney Channel, and Disney Junior.
D23 Expo, the ultimate event for Disney fans, presented by Visa, takes place September 9 through 11 at the Anaheim Convention Center in Anaheim, California. Plus, this epic presentation will also be available as part of D23 Expo [LIVE], which will live stream many of the biggest D23 Expo panels and presentations throughout the weekend.
Scheduled to appear during “Disney’s Epic Entertainment Showcase: The Musical: The Extravaganza!” are the stars and creative teams of some of the biggest upcoming titles from Disney Branded Television across Disney+, Disney Channel, and Disney Junior.
D23 Expo is sold out. Select presentations will be streamed for guests at D23 Expo [LIVE]. For more information, visit D23Expo.com.
D23 Expo: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa will kick off Friday, September 9, with a fantastic spectacle that includes the Disney Legends Awards ceremony and an early look at Disney 100 Years of Wonder—an extraordinary celebration 100 years in the making.
The opening ceremony will occur at 10:30 a.m. in Hall D23 inside the Anaheim Convention Center.
“For nearly a century, Disney has been entertaining and inspiring people around the world,” said Bob Chapek, CEO, The Walt Disney Company. “I can’t wait to give fans a first look at what we have in store for our hundredth anniversary, and how we’re using this occasion to celebrate all the fans and families who have welcomed Disney into their lives.”
The incredible opening event, which will be streamed as part of D23 Expo [LIVE], will feature musical performances, special guests, and surprises for the audience, including a special performance by cast members from Disney On Broadway’s productions of Aladdin and The Lion King, and The North American Tour of Frozen.
The Disney Legends Award is given to an individual who has made an extraordinary contribution to the Disney legacy, and this year’s honorees include Anthony Anderson, Kristen Bell, Chadwick Boseman, Rob’t Coltrin, Patrick Dempsey, Robert Price “Bob” Foster, Jonathan Groff, Don Hahn, Josh Gad, Doris Hardoon, Idina Menzel, Chris Montan, Ellen Pompeo, and Tracee Ellis Ross. Emmy® Award winner Tamron Hall will host, bringing her signature warmth and humor to the fan-favorite ceremony.
The Disney Legends Awards program is a 35-year tradition of The Walt Disney Company, which began when Fred MacMurray (The Shaggy Dog, The Absent-Minded Professor, The Happiest Millionaire) was honored in 1987. The awards ceremony is just one of the many spectacular events fans can enjoy during the three-day D23 Expo.
The D23 Expo 2022 Disney Legends Award honorees (listed alphabetically)
Anthony Anderson grew up in Los Angeles. While pursuing his acting career, he continued his education by attending the High School for the Performing Arts, where he earned first place in the NAACP’s ACT-SO Awards. His performance, along with a dedication to his craft, earned him an arts scholarship to Howard University. Anthony has appeared in more than 20 films, and his performance on Law & Order earned him four consecutive NAACP Image Award nominations for Outstanding Actor in a Drama Series. He starred in and executive produced ABC’s Emmy-nominated sitcom black-ish, winning seven NAACP Image Awards and earning seven Emmy and three Golden Globe® nominations for his role as Andre “Dre” Johnson in the series. He also executive produced and appeared in the black-ish spinoff series grown-ish and mixed-ish. His recent credits include ABC’s Live in Front of a Studio Audience: Norman Lear’s ‘All in the Family’ and ‘The Jeffersons’(2019), host of ABC’s game show To Tell the Truth (2016–), and Detective Kevin Bernard in Law & Order. In 2020 he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Kristen Bell is an award-winning actor, author, and producer, who landed her first role with Disney by lending her voice to Hiromi in the Studio Ghibli classic The Cat Returns, for the U.S. DVD release in 2005. Her voice-acting expertise would soon come in handy once again, for the two highest-grossing animated features of all time, Frozen (2013) and Frozen 2 (2019). Anna, the optimistic, comical, fearless princess (who became Queen) of Arendelle, was a spot-on role for the seasoned actor, whose singing talents and personality effortlessly shines through her performance of the character. Kristen reprised the role in Frozen Fever (2015), Olaf’s Frozen Adventure (2017), Ralph Breaks the Internet (2018), and Once Upon a Snowman (2020), along with numerous video games, theme park experiences, and consumer products. Kristen also voiced Priscilla the sloth in 2016’s Oscar®-winning Zootopia and in the upcoming Disney+ series Zootopia+. She has also starred in several Disney live-action films, such as When in Rome (2010) and You Again (2010), TV specials such as Lady Gaga & The Muppets’ Holiday Spectacular (2013) and Mickey’s 90th Spectacular (2018), and myriad series from 20th Century Fox, including The Simpsons and Family Guy.
Chadwick Boseman was fueled by purpose and sought to fulfill that through writing, directing, acting, and activism. His breakout performance came playing Jackie Robinson in 42, followed by his next role as James Brown in Get On Up. He then starred in the title role of Marshall, which followed a young Thurgood Marshall. Boseman joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the African Super Hero Black Panther in Captain America: Civil War before bringing the character to the forefront of his own solo film, Black Panther, which received critical acclaim, broke global box office records, and had a social and cultural impact felt globally. The film received seven Academy Award® nominations, including Marvel’s first-ever Best Picture nomination. Boseman won the NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Actor in a Motion Picture and the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture alongside the film’s ensemble. In 2019, Boseman starred in 21 Bridges. In 2020, he appeared in Da 5 Bloods, directed by Academy Award winner Spike Lee. In Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, his captivating performance as “Levee” garnered an Academy Award nomination, and he won the NAACP Image Award and the Critics Choice and Screen Actors Guild awards, among numerous others. On television, he most recently received an Emmy nomination for his work in the Disney+ animated series What If…?
Rob’t Coltrin joined Walt Disney Imagineering in 1990 in the Show Set Design group and over time progressed through multiple disciplines—including show design, concept design, and art direction—before landing in his final role as an executive creative director. Early in his career he had a hand in the creation of several attractions that have delighted Disney fans for decades, such as Mickey’s PhilharMagic, Muppet*Vision 3D, and Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin. More recently, he was a major creative force behind some of our most ambitious projects, including Radiator Springs Racers, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, and recent expansions at Tokyo Disney Resort. In addition to his boundless creative talents, Rob’t is also well known for his passion to elevate the work of fellow Imagineers and help further their careers. Even following his retirement in 2019, he continues to keep in touch with and inspire many of his friends and colleagues at Imagineering.
Patrick Dempsey is a two-time Golden Globe® nominee and SAG Award® nominee for Best Performance by an Actor in a Television Series. Early in his career he appeared in 1980s nostalgia films such as Touchstone’s Can’t Buy Me Love (1987) and has since become a Hollywood star with numerous iconic television and film roles. Other Disney credits include an appearance on The Magical World of Disney as Kellin Taylor in A Fighting Choice (1986), the Hollywood Pictures film Run (1991), Touchstone’s Sweet Home Alabama (2002), Brother Bear 2 (2006) as the voice of Kenai, Enchanted (2007), and the upcoming Disney+ film Disenchanted (2022). He is perhaps best known to fans as Dr. Derek Shepherd in ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy, a role he portrayed for 11 seasons. Grey’s Anatomy won the 2007 Golden Globe for Best Television Series–Drama as well as the 2007 SAG Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series. In addition to acting, Patrick is an avid racing enthusiast, participating in sports car events and produced the film The Art of Racing in the Rain (2019). In 2008, with the intention of giving back to the community where he grew up and where his mother first received cancer treatment, Patrick founded the Dempsey Center to help make life better for people managing the impact of cancer.
Robert Price “Bob” Foster began his Disney career in 1956, joining the Walt Disney Productions legal department. He later served as a member of the Park Operations Committee for Disneyland and was promoted to Corporate Secretary and Legal Counsel in 1958. Two years later, he was named Assistant Secretary, Walt Disney Productions, and Resident Counsel for Disneyland. In 1963, Walt and Roy O. Disney selected Bob to head the land search for their top-secret “Florida Project.” Bob took extraordinary measures to ensure that the identity of Walt Disney Productions remained classified while initiating and executing the property research and acquisition effort. He acquired 43 square miles of land for what would eventually become the Walt Disney World Resort. Bob was later named Vice President (Legal), Secretary, and General Counsel for the Walt Disney World Co. and in 1970 was promoted to President of the Buena Vista Land Company. In this role, Bob was responsible for overseeing development of the resort community of Lake Buena Vista. In 1974, Bob retired from Walt Disney Productions as Vice President, Real Estate.
Josh Gad is a Tony Award®-winning actor and singer who has warmed the hearts of countless viewers around the globe as Olaf, the loveable snowman from the 2013 box office hit Frozen and its popular follow-up, Frozen 2 (2019). To audiences’ delight, Gad has reprised the role numerous times, each time sharing more of the sun-loving character’s endearing personality and vivacious songs. Olaf has appeared in Frozen Fever (2015), LEGO® Disney Frozen: Northern Lights (2016), Olaf’s Frozen Adventure (2017), At Home with Olaf (2020), Once Upon a Snowman (2020), and Olaf Presents (2021). Gad’s memorable performances in Frozen and Frozen 2 earned him two Annie Awards for Outstanding Achievement for Voice Acting in an Animated Feature Production. In 2017, Gad starred as LeFou, the memorable and iconic sidekick to Gaston, in the live-action Beauty and the Beast, and in 2020, he portrayed Mulch Diggums in Artemis Fowl. Some of his other notable Disney credits include Mickey’s 90th Spectacular (2018), The Disney Family Singalong (2020), Murder on the Orient Express (2017), Modern Family (2011), and Magic of Disney’s Animal Kingdom (2020). Gad’s Broadway talent is also showcased as both a creator and star of the Emmy-nominated 20th Television Animation musical series, Central Park (2020–).
Jonathan Groff has made memorable performances in theater, film, and television since his award-winning breakout performance in Broadway’s Spring Awakening (2006). Popular with Disney fans the world over, Jonathan voiced the character of Kristoff in both Frozen (2013) and Frozen 2 (2019)—the top two highest-grossing animated films of all time—as well as in Frozen Fever (2015), LEGO Disney Frozen: Northern Lights (2016), Olaf’s Frozen Adventure (2017), Once Upon a Snowman (2020), and numerous video games, consumer products, and theme park experiences. He also appeared as Jesse St. James on the Emmy- and Golden Globe-award-winning television series Glee. Additional notable Disney television credits include The Story of Frozen: Making a Disney Animated Classic and Into the Unknown: Making Frozen 2. Groff originated the role of King George III in the Pulitzer Prize-winning production of Hamilton on Broadway, receiving a Tony Award nomination for his performance, and was part of the featured cast immortalized in the Emmy-winning Disney+ Original release of the hit show. Groff also received an individual Emmy nomination for his performance in the filmed production.
Don Hahn joined The Walt Disney Studios in 1976 in the Art Props Morgue. His animation career took off when he worked as an inbetweener on Pete’s Dragon (1977), and later as assistant director on The Fox and the Hound (1981). He was Production Manager of The Black Cauldron (1985) and TheGreat Mouse Detective (1986), then turned to producing on Who Framed Roger Rabbit (1988), Beauty and the Beast (1991), and The Lion King (1994). His other credits include TheHunchback of Notre Dame (1996), TheEmperor’s New Groove (2000), Maleficent (2014), and the live-action Beauty and the Beast (2017). He executive produced the Disneynature films Earth (2009), Oceans (2010), African Cats (2011), and Chimpanzee (2012). Don is also the author of several Disney Editions books, including The Alchemy of Animation, Before Ever After, and Yesterday’s Tomorrow: Disney’s Magical Mid-Century. As director, Don has helmed such acclaimed documentaries as Waking Sleeping Beauty (2010) and Howard (2020). His most recent Disney credits include hosting the documentary Adventure Thru the Walt Disney Archives (2020).
Doris Hardoon joined Walt Disney Imagineering in 1979 as a junior designer, then quickly rose through the ranks to lead designer, art director, and producer on a variety of groundbreaking projects around the globe. Included were EPCOT Center, Tokyo Disneyland, Disneyland Paris, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park, as well as Disney Cruise Line and Disney entertainment centers nationwide. She additionally served as executive art director, producer, and creative portfolio lead for projects including Hong Kong Disneyland, the proposed-but-never-built WESTCOT Center in Anaheim, and the unbuilt DisneySea in Long Beach. Doris left the Company in 2000 to pursue other innovative projects but returned in 2009 to help conceive, design, and build Shanghai Disney Resort. In her role as executive director and producer, Doris provided overall creative direction to her design and production teams, while establishing culturally relevant, “authentically Disney, distinctly Chinese” elements in all aspects of her assignments. Doris is the 2022 recipient of the THEA Buzz Price Lifetime of Distinguished Achievements Award.
Idina Menzel is an accomplished actor, singer, songwriter, and philanthropist, who rose to fame on the Broadway stage. Winning a Tony Award in 2004 for her legendary performance as Elphaba in Wicked, she famously went on to voice Queen Elsa in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Frozen (2013) and reprised the role in Ralph Breaks the Internet (2018) and Frozen 2 (2019), along with numerous animated shorts, theme park experiences, and consumer products. Idina’s performance of the Oscar- and Grammy®-winning song “Let It Go” became an international phenomenon, reaching No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and helped launch Frozen and Frozen 2 on their way to becoming the two highest-grossing animated movies of all time. Idina also appeared as Nancy Tremaine in Enchanted (2007) and is soon to reprise the role in the Disney+ sequel, Disenchanted. As a songwriter, Idina’s original song “Dream Girl” (from 2021’s Cinderella) made it to the Academy Awards’ Best Original Song short list. Some of her notable Disney TV credits include Lisa King in ABC Studios’ Private Practice (2009), Disneyland 60: The Wonderful World of Disney (2015), Mickey’s 90th Spectacular (2018), and The Disney Family Singalong: Volume II (2020), as well as the recurring role of Shelby Corcoran in Glee for 20th Century Television.
Chris Montan joined The Walt Disney Company in 1984, and within three years was named vice president of music for motion pictures and television. In 1997, Variety named him “musical supervisor of the decade” after he oversaw such classic and best-selling film soundtracks as The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Pretty Woman, Sister Act, Aladdin, The Lion King, Pocahontas, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and Hercules. Chris was named President of Walt Disney Music in 1999 and was responsible for overseeing music for Disney and Pixar animated feature films, Disney Theatrical stage productions, and Disney Parks and Resorts, worldwide. He served as executive music producer for all of the Studios’ animated features during his tenure, working closely in the story development process as well as helping to select musical talent. His work has been nominated for multiple Grammy Awards, winning Best Original Cast Recording for Aida and Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media for Frozen, with additional films receiving 45 musical Academy Award nominations and 16 Academy Awards in the Best Original Song and Best Original Score categories.
Ellen Pompeo leads the longest-running primetime medical drama in television history, Grey’s Anatomy. As one of television’s most beloved actresses, Ellen’s turn in the title role continues to help elevate the series as ABC’s highest-rated drama and earned the actress a Golden Globe nomination in 2007. Audiences remain glued to screens week after week watching Dr. Meredith Grey and her colleagues face relatable and emotional hardships. In real life, Ellen similarly confronts adversity and works for positive change both on and off the screen. Whether it is encouraging women to pursue their dream careers—medical or otherwise—or advocating for normalizing gender and racial equality in the workplace, the actress has inspired generations. Some of Ellen’s other notable credits include Moonlight Mile (2002), Old School (2003), and Daredevil (2003). Next up, Ellen will star in and executive produce an eight-episode Hulu Original limited series currently titled Untitled Orphan Project through her production banner Calamity Jane, which she launched in 2011.
Tracee Ellis Ross starred in the groundbreaking ABC comedy series black-ish. The Emmy-winning show ran for eight seasons, during which she also served as a producer and director. For her role as Dr. Rainbow “Bow” Johnson, Tracee was nominated five times for an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series and won the 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2020 NAACP Image Award for Best Actress in a Comedy Series. In addition, Tracee was honored and acknowledged at the 2016 ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood luncheon, receiving the Fierce and Fearless award. Her other Disney television credits include roles on grown-ish and mixed-ish—the latter of which she was both co-creator and executive producer—The Premise, and Private Practice. Tracee is the founder and CEO of PATTERN, a haircare brand that launched in 2019.
Honorees receive a two-foot-tall bronze Disney Legends sculpture that signifies the imagination, creativity, and magic they have brought to the Company. Disney Legends Award recipients will also participate in a handprint ceremony at the end of the event, and their bronzed prints will be displayed in the Disney Legends Plaza at the Company’s Burbank headquarters.
Admission to the ceremony will be on a first-come, first-served basis and is included in the ticket price to D23 Expo 2022.
Including this year’s honorees, a total of 304 Disney Legends have been named. Past Disney Legends include Tim Allen, Julie Andrews, Howard Ashman, Robert Downey Jr., Annette Funicello, Whoopi Goldberg, Sir Elton John, Angela Lansbury, George Lucas, Steve Martin, Alan Menken, Hayley Mills, Fess Parker, Robin Roberts, Marty Sklar, Dick Van Dyke, Barbara Walters, Ming-Na Wen, Betty White, and Robin Williams, among many others. Beginning with the inaugural D23 Expo in 2009, thousands of Disney fans have been able to enjoy the Disney Legends Awards ceremony in person.
D23 Expo is sold out. Select presentations will be streamed for guests at D23 Expo Live! For more information, visit D23Expo.com.
Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ make their return to D23 Expo: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, showcasing the ultimate streaming lineup of live and on-demand content.
During the three-day Ultimate Fan Event, presented by Visa, attendees can enjoy immersive experiences, talent appearances, and photo opportunities at The Disney Bundle Pavilion, along with live demos of the latest features on Disney+, special perks for Disney+ subscribers across the show floor, and much more.
This year, the global celebration of Disney+ Day returns on Thursday, September 8, leading into D23 Expo from Friday, September 9 through Sunday, September 11.
To continue the festivities, attendees can look forward to news, first looks, and talent appearances from upcoming Disney+ Originals as part of the highly anticipated Hall D23 showcases, including the Pixar Animation Studios, Walt Disney Animation Studios, and Disney Live Action presentation on Friday, September 9, and the Marvel Studios, Lucasfilm, 20th Century Studios, and Disney Branded Television presentations on Saturday, September 10.
Throughout the weekend, Disney+ subscribers attending D23 Expo will be able to unlock special giveaways or promotions at Offer Spots on the show floor when they present their Disney+ subscriber pass, which can be picked up at D23 Expo starting on Thursday, September 8.
In honor of Dancing with the Stars’ new home, Disney+ invites guests to step back into the ballroom for a special celebration on the Backlot Stage on Sunday, September 11. Co-hosts Tyra Banks and Alfonso Ribeiro will be joined by a panel of executive producers and judges to share their favorite memories from the show and reveal new details about Season 31, premiering Monday, September 19 on Disney+.
The Disney Bundle Pavilion On the show floor, The Disney Bundle Pavilion will showcase the unprecedented collection of entertainment and sports content offered across Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ with special programming and experiences.
Disney+ will exhibit two unique installations for fans to experience. A lenticular installation offers guests an opportunity to look for their reflection among the moving images, while a Disney+ holographic display will surprise guests with beamed-in appearances by their favorite characters.
Hulu invites guests to “Check in to Their Obsessions” as they walk through the iconic Hulu green vessel and are transported to a world filled with all their Hulu favorites, offering something for every type of viewer— whether they’re a pop culture aficionado or reality TV buff, or if their watch list is filled with adult animation or critically-acclaimed dramas. They will be able to join the Belchers for a Bob’s Burgers family photo opportunity and put themselves in the hot seat of a confessional from their favorite reality TV shows as they navigate a variety of immersive experiences.
ESPN+ offers fans a backstage pass that will give them a close-up look at some of the most iconic memorabilia in sports, including the College Football Playoff trophy, the UFC Championship belt, an El Clásico game ball, and more. Then, fans can complete their VIP fan experience by snapping a photo sitting behind a sports news desk.
The Disney Bundle Pavilion Stage Programming Additionally, The Disney Bundle Pavilion stage will host three full days of panels, trivia, activities, fan-favorite screenings, and more, highlighting the diverse offering of shows, movies, and sports from Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+.
Highlights of the tentative schedule are as follows, with times subject to change (all times PT):
Friday, September 9 11:35 a.m. – Pixar’s Onward Story Presentation by Story Supervisor Kelsey Mann 12:00 p.m. – To the Edge of the Unknown from National Geographic with Jimmy Chin and Alex Honnold 12:35 p.m. – Sketch with an Animator: Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Eric Goldberg 1:55 p.m. – The History of Cars: Road Trip from the Original Film to New Series Cars on the Road with Creative Director Jay Ward 3:50 p.m. – Across the Bundle Spotlights: Hispanic Voices Panel 6:25 p.m. – Hulu Dance Party
Saturday, September 10 12:10 p.m. – A Conversation with Frozen Filmmakers with Academy Award® Winners Chris Buck (Director) and Peter Del Vecho (Producer) 1:10 p.m. – Sketch with an Animator: Solar Opposites’ Lindsay Carrozza 3:50 p.m. – Across the Bundle Spotlights: Made by Her Panel 4:50 p.m. – Meet the Muppets: The Muppets Mayhem Conversation Hosted by Tahj Mowry 6:25 p.m. – Hulu Dance Party
Sunday, September 11 10:00 a.m. – A Conversation with Encanto Filmmakers with Academy Award Winners Jared Bush (Director/Writer), Clark Spencer (Producer), and Yvett Merino (Producer) 3:50 p.m. – Across the Bundle Spotlights: Black History Always Panel 6:25 p.m. – Hulu Dance Party
Stage Presentations featuring Disney+ Content Continuing the Disney+ Day celebration, fans will be treated to exclusive first looks at some of the new movies, series, specials, and shorts coming to Disney+ in 2023 and beyond during the following panels, including the newly announced Dancing with the Stars 31st Season Celebration on September 11:
Friday, September 9 10:45 a.m. – The Simpsons! (Premiere Stage) 3:30 p.m. – Studio Showcase, Day 1: Celebrate the Magic of Disney and Pixar (Hall D23) 5:45 p.m. – National Geographic and Disney+ Special Screening: Epic Adventures with Bertie Gregory (Hyperion Stage)
Saturday, September 10 10:00 a.m. – Studio Showcase, Day 2: Marvel Studios, Lucasfilm, and 20th Century Studios (Hall D23) 3:30 p.m. – Disney’s Epic Entertainment Showcase: The Musical: The Extravaganza! (Hall D23) 5:45 p.m. – National Geographic and Disney+ Special Screening: Limitless with Chris Hemsworth (Hyperion Stage) 6:00 p.m. – The Santa Clauses: Conversation with Cast and Creators (Premiere Stage) 6:00 p.m. – Sneak Peek at Zootopia+ from Walt Disney Animation Studios (Backlot Stage)
Sunday, September 11 10:00 a.m. – Disney Original Documentary’s Sneak Peek of Mickey: The Story of a Mouse (Backlot Stage) 10:30 a.m. – The Cast and Creators of the Disney+ Series The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder (Premiere Stage) 6:00 p.m. – Dancing with the Stars’ 31st Season Celebration (Backlot Stage)
Disney+ Innovation Lounge Presented by IMAX® Enhanced The Disney+ Innovation Lounge, Presented by IMAX Enhanced, will feature innovations from partners and products in a dedicated space to learn and explore the streaming service’s future. Fans can stop by the lounge to see demos of new Disney+ product features and get an inside look at how IMAX comes to life on Disney+ with IMAX Enhanced.
In the Disney+ Innovation Lounge, Disney+ subscribers and D23 Gold Members will receive a Disney+ Collectible Card pack featuring custom illustrations celebrating some of the most popular current and upcoming Disney+ movies and shows.
D23 Expo is sold out. Select presentations will be streamed for guests at D23 Expo Live! For more information, visit D23Expo.com.
With just over a month until Disney’s highly anticipated D23 Expo 2022 presented by Visa in Anaheim, California, kicking off September 9, Marvel is unveiling a can’t-miss lineup of panels, stage events, guest appearances, exclusive merchandise, giveaways, and more!
Fans can explore the Marvel Studios Pavilion on the show floor to experience an awesome costume display, exclusive giveaways, a photo activation, and other surprises. Elsewhere on the show floor, the shopDisney booth will spotlight exciting Marvel merchandise featuring the Avengers, Spider-Man, and the Guardians of the Galaxy, along with various other products at retailer booths during the show.
Throughout the weekend at D23 Expo, fans won’t want to miss Marvel’s panels and stage events diving into what’s next for Marvel Studios, a celebration of 60 “Beyond Amazing” years of Spider-Man, an exciting current look at Marvel Games, and more! These include:
Marvel DRAW Live! Friday, September 9, 2–2:30 p.m. PT and Saturday, September 10, 1:30–2 p.m. PT | D23 Expo Live! Stage Join Brian Crosby, Marvel’s Director of Themed Entertainment, for a real-time, step-by-step tutorial session on how to draw some of Marvel’s most iconic heroes and villains!
Hall D23 Presentation Saturday, September 10, 10 a.m. PT | Hall D23 As previously announced, filmmakers, celebrity talent, and surprise guests from Marvel Studios will join Lucasfilm and others onstage in Hall D23 to showcase theatrical and Disney+ titles. Going behind the scenes of these studios’ highly anticipated films, specials, and series, attendees will see exclusive footage and be among the first to learn what’s in the works.
Marvel Comics: Celebrating 60 Years of the Amazing Spider-Man Saturday, September 10, 2–3 p.m. PT | Backlot stage Celebrate sixty spectacular, sensational, web-slinging years of Spider-Man! From his humble debut in 1962’s Amazing Fantasy #15, he wall-crawled his way to international super-stardom. Now, join Marvel’s Executive Spider-Editor Nick Lowe and Editor-in-Chief C.B. Cebulski as they team up to trace the comics history of the web-head across six decades—and BEYOND! Tantalizing trivia about the webbed wonder will be shared in this can’t-miss panel, so be sure to swing by! Fans attending will also receive a special exclusive giveaway (while supplies last), to be revealed in the coming weeks!
Signings with Marvel Editor-in-Chief C.B. Cebulski and Executive Editor Nick Lowe Saturday, September 10, 5:30–6:30 p.m. PT | Talent Central Swing by Talent Central to meet Marvel’s Editor-in-Chief C.B. Cebulski and Executive Spider-Editor Nick Lowe for a signing opportunity!
D23 Expo is sold out. Select presentations will be streamed for guests at D23 Expo Live! For more information, visit D23Expo.com.
Disney General Entertainment is bringing more than 30 fan-favorite programs under one roof at this year’s D23 Expo: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event presented by Visa.
Through interactive activations on the convention floor as well as shows, panels, and talent appearances, fans will immerse themselves in the wonders of storytelling from some of the most iconic and culture-defining shows across every genre on television and streaming, created by content brands ABC Entertainment, ABC News, Disney Branded Television, Freeform, FX, Hulu Originals, National Geographic Content, and Onyx Collective.
The three-day extravaganza kicks off September 9 in Anaheim, California, and includes immersive activations in the Disney General Entertainment “Journey Into Storytelling” pavilion, along with a dynamic schedule of exciting announcements, sneak peeks, engaging panels and special appearances by the stars from some of today’s most cherished shows today.
Through the “Journey Into Storytelling” experience on the show floor pavilion, there is a story for everyone. Fans are invited to immerse themselves in the various worlds of their favorite programming, or perhaps even discover their new favorites, with interactive experiences from “Abbott Elementary,” “American Born Chinese,” “American Horror Story,” “Cruel Summer,” “Epic Adventures with Bertie Gregory,” “Fire of Love,” “Good Morning America,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “The Kardashians,” “Legacy: The True Story of the LA Lakers,” “Limitless with Chris Hemsworth,” “National Treasure: Edge of History,” “Only Murders in the Building” and “ZOMBIES 3.” There will be photo and video activations along with gamification throughout the pavilion.
Fans of daytime television favorites “Live with Kelly and Ryan” and “Tamron Hall” can take center stage for a photo and video moment where they will feel like they’re part of the show at these fun photo booth opportunities — located in Hall B of the D23 Expo floor. In addition, fans can see Tamron Hall in-person moderating various panels across D23 Expo.
The Ultimate Disney Fan Event will also feature panels, shows and talent appearances across its five stages: Hall D23, Premiere Stage, Backlot Stage, Walt Disney Archive Stage and Hyperion Stage. Exciting panels include a sneak peek into ABC Entertainment’s upcoming special “Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration” and a special fan experience celebrating “The Simpsons” reign as the longest-running animated series of all time. Additional programming will take place on the Disney Bundle Stage. More details to come.
Show Floor Pavilion — “Journey Into Storytelling” Immersive Experiences:
ABC News:
“Good Morning America” (ABC and Hulu) TSS Shot Begin the journey seeing your name in lights on the famed ABC News’ “Good Morning America” marquee — a must-have photo op.
Disney Branded Television:
“American Born Chinese” (Disney+) – Mythical Staff Maneuvers Learn how to master the staff alongside the mythical Chinese heroes featured in Disney Branded Television’s “American Born Chinese.”
“National Treasure: Edge of History” (Disney+) – Clue Room Zoom Gear up for an archeological adventure by searching for clues in the secret tunnel of the pyramid with Disney Branded Television’s “National Treasure: Edge of History.”
ABC Entertainment:
“Abbott Elementary” (ABC and Hulu) – Sub for a Day Step into a day in the life of a substitute teacher at “Abbott Elementary” and see how you would respond in some iconic scenes!
“Grey’s Anatomy” (ABC and Hulu) Do as the world-class staff of Grey Sloan Memorial do when they need a boost: strike a superhero pose or dance it out!
Freeform:
“Cruel Summer” (Freeform and Hulu) – Y2K Room Enter this experience to take a turn on “Dance Dance Revolution” to your favorite throwback hits, pose in the Y2K-era bedroom and get a glimpse at the lake life in a cool airstream photo op from the upcoming season of “Cruel Summer.”
FX:
“American Horror Story” – Horror Scare Moment (FX and Hulu) Be the star of your own nightmare while celebrating 11 award-winning seasons of FX’s “American Horror Story.”
Hulu Originals:
“Only Murders in the Building” – Arconia Silhouettes Become a resident of the famed Arconia with your very own Mabel Mora-style portrait with Hulu Originals’ “Only Murders in the Building.”
“The Kardashians” – 7th Sister Think you have what it takes to be a Kardashian? Give it your best strut.
“Legacy: The True Story of the LA Lakers” – Skyhook Slo Mo Fulfill your Laker’s legacy with your very own attempt at the skyhook inspired by Lakers legends.
National Geographic Content:
“Epic Adventures with Bertie Gregory” (Disney+); “Fire of Love” (Disney+); “Limitless with Chris Hemsworth” (Disney+) Push your own limits by becoming an explorer at some of the most stunning environmental settings around the world with National Geographic.
D23 Expo is sold out. Select presentations will be streamed for guests at D23 Expo Live! For more information, visit D23Expo.com.
The Walt Disney Archives returns to D23 Expo 2022 presented by Visa with an all-new exhibit, Walt Disney Archives presents Step in Time, a celebration of the nearly 100-year history of The Walt Disney Company.
As part of the kick-off to Disney100, this chronological exhibition showcases Walt Disney Archives’ historical assets like never before with immersive, themed environments from animated shorts, films, and film premieres, as well as television productions and Disney Parks favorites, including Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Mary Poppins, Tron, and Walt Disney World Resort’s Haunted Mansion.
The exhibition will provide fans an opportunity to experience some of the most iconic Disney moments over the course of September 9, 10, and 11 at the Anaheim Convention Center during the D23 Expo 2022 hosted by D23: The Official Disney Fan Club.
A timeline in the center of the exhibit will showcase the breadth of extraordinary Disney events over the past century and will act as a guide for visitors as they journey through the 12,000-square-foot experience. Guests will have the chance to literally “Step in Time,” into various immersive areas around the perimeter of the space, showcasing rare historical objects as never before, in recreations of the settings from which they originated.
The gallery space will be divided into nine highly themed areas, providing fans the opportunity to capture photos and become part of Disney’s rich history themselves. From captaining the boat in Steamboat Willie, walking the blue carpet at the premiere of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, and visiting with the carousel horses from Mary Poppins, to being serenaded by Breathless Mahoney at Club Ritz (Dick Tracy), visiting Flynn’s Arcade (Tron), and coming face-to-face with the bride in the attic of the Haunted Mansion, fans will have the opportunity to relive moments from 100 Years of Wonder, all while making new memories to last a lifetime.
The popular Walt Disney Archives Stage returns, hosting more than a dozen panels and presentations throughout the weekend. Notables such as Disney Legend Bill Farmer, Walt Disney Archives director Becky Cline, author and historian Graham Allan, Walt Disney Imagineering global ambassador Bob Weis, Imagineers from the Illusioneering Lab, and historian and artist Stacia Martin will offer a unique peek “behind the magic.” Fans will enjoy exploring many of Disney’s worlds, including the impressive 50-year legacy of the Main Street Electrical Parad , a look back at the 1980s and 1990s edition of the Mickey Mouse Club, and the first half-century of the Walt Disney World Resort.
Walt Disney – Personal, travel bag, Gulfstream N732G logo printed on both sides. “Walt Disney
Productions'”
1964
Earlier this year, it was announced that Walt Disney’s Grumman Gulfstream I airplane will be on display at D23 Expo. To accompany the return of this piece of Disney history, which is having its exterior restored and will be available for guests to see in the Arena of the Anaheim Convention Center, the Walt Disney Archives has curated an all-new exhibit featuring specially selected items that represent the history of the aircraft. Included will be a customized instrument panel originally located near Walt’s favorite onboard seat (enabling him to monitor flight conditions), a telephone handset (which gave Walt a direct line of communication to the pilot in the cockpit), and a flight bag adorned with an image of Mickey Mouse sitting on the tail of the famed plane.
Plus, join the Archives team and special guests on the 1,250-seat Backlot stage on Saturday, September 10, at 10 a.m. for a look at the creation of the upcoming Disney100: The Exhibition, which opens next February at The Franklin Institute in Philadelphia.
A limited number of single-day tickets for Sunday of D23 Expo 2022 are available for $99 for one-day adult admission and $79 for children ages 3–12. Gold Members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club can purchase tickets for $89 for a one-day adult admission. Single-day Saturday tickets and three-day passes are sold out. For more information on tickets and D23 Expo 2022, visit D23Expo.com.
Today, D23 announced exciting new details about D23 Expo 2022 presented by Visa. “The Ultimate Disney Fan Event” is back, returning to the Anaheim Convention Center from September 9th through the 11th, to celebrate the magic and excitement of Disney and kick off Disney100, the centennial celebration of The Walt Disney Company.
The three-day event will celebrate all the wonderful worlds of Disney—including Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars—united under one roof to showcase what’s new and what’s on the horizon from Disney theme parks, streaming, television, music, products, and films. D23 Expo 2022 will feature more than 50 shows, presentations, and panels, including the Disney Legends Awards Ceremony, which honors the talented individuals who have made significant contributions to the Disney legacy, as well as an all-new exhibit curated by the Walt Disney Archives highlighting the 100th anniversary of Disney.
We’re so excited to return to D23 Expo this year, so read on for details about ticketing, the Mousequerade costume contest, an exciting new exhibit, and more! First, take a look at the all-new key art for D23 Expo 2022 presented by Visa, which is inspired by the Disney100 celebration.
This year, the fabulous and fashionable Nina West will be hosting, with Yvette Nicole Brown (Big Shot, Disenchanted), Ashley Eckstein (voice of Ahsoka Tano and creator of Her Universe), and Ally Maki (Toy Story 4, Home Sweet Home Alone) judging the always impressive selection of contestants.
The contest will feature new and returning categories including “Off the Screen,” “Imagine That!,” “Magical Mashups,” and “Cast of Characters,” as well as a fan-favorite award voted on by the audience and a “Best in Show” prize of $2,300. Complete rules for entry and details are available at D23Expo.com.
Walt’s Plane
This year’s D23 Expo will debut a brand-new exhibit featuring an iconic piece of Disney history. D23 and the Walt Disney Archives, working with new D23 Expo Platinum sponsor Amazon, are restoring Walt Disney’s Grumman Gulfstream I company airplane, currently housed backstage at Walt Disney World Resort, and transporting it to Anaheim.
The aircraft was seen for years as part of the Studio Backlot Tour at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and will be on display at D23 Expo 2022 for guests to see in an exhibit called Mickey Mouse One: Walt’s Plane presented by Amazon.
And So Much More!
Returning to D23 Expo 2022 will be the massive show floor full of immersive experiences and special opportunities for guests to see what’s next for Disney around the world—and they may even run into their favorite Disney stars, characters, Imagineers, animators, and filmmakers.
Guests can also enjoy numerous shopping opportunities—many featuring D23 Expo-exclusive collectibles—at an assortment of Disney and partner pop-up shops including the D23 Expo Emporium, where the ultimate Disney fans can find their ultimate treasures.
The 7,000-seat Hall D23 returns and will be joined this year by the 3,000-seat Premiere Stage, the 1,200-seat Backlot Stage, and the expanded, 700-seat Walt Disney Archives Stage for more presentations curated by the staff of the Archives.
On the main show floor, the D23 Expo Live! Stage will feature performances, appearances, demonstrations, and more all weekend long, many of which will be live-streamed to guests at home.
D23 Expo 2022 Special Offers
Presenting Sponsor Visa will be the “Official Way to Pay at D23 Expo,” and Visa cardholders will have access to additional benefits and one-of-a-kind Disney experiences.
D23 Gold Members will also enjoy special benefits at the Expo, including on-site discounts from select retail locations and a complimentary gift. And guests will be able to visit the D23 Ultimate Fan Lounge presented by Amazon on the show floor.
Stay tuned for more details on special offers for both Visa cardholders and D23 Gold Members, which will be announced in the coming months.
D23 Expo 2022 Tickets
Tickets for D23 Expo 2022 presented by Visa go on sale at 12 p.m. PT on Thursday, January 20, with an exclusive presale for Visa cardholders who are also D23 Members starting on Wednesday, January 19, at 10 a.m. PT. Guests must be members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club—either at the complimentary General Member level or at the Gold Member level—to purchase tickets.
D23 Members who are also Visa cardholders, and who pay with their Visa, will have pre-sale access to a limited number of one-day and three-day tickets for 24 hours beginning January 19, 2022, at 10 a.m. PT, while supplies last.
D23 Gold Members will be able to purchase specially priced discounted tickets, both single-day ($89) and three-day ($229). Regularly priced single-day tickets are $99 for a one-day adult admission and $79 for children, and money-saving three-day tickets are also available. Discounted hotel and Disneyland Resort park tickets are available to all D23 Expo ticket purchasers.
This year, a limited number of Hall D23 Preferred Seating tickets (which include admission for all three days and a reserved seating section for all Hall D23 presentations) will be available exclusively to D23 Gold Members.
For more information on tickets, ticket prices, and D23 Expo, visit D23Expo.com.
