Get ready for a whimsical twist at Disney’s Hollywood Studios! The iconic Rock ‘N’ Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith is set to undergo an exciting transformation, trading rock anthems for the zany antics of The Muppets. Disney Parks Blog made the official announcement, sending waves of excitement through the Disney fan community.
This reimagining marks a significant shift for the high-speed coaster, which has been a thrill ride staple at Hollywood Studios since 1999. While no official closure date for the Aerosmith version or opening date for the Muppets-themed ride has been announced, Disney assures guests there’s still time to rock out with Aerosmith before the change.
The decision to bring in The Muppets aligns with fan desires for more Muppets representation within Disney Parks. The Muppets’ brand of humor and high-energy fun is seen as a perfect fit for the coaster’s thrilling nature. Disney highlighted this synergy, stating, “We know so many of you share our love for The Muppets and know their energy will be a perfect fit for this coaster.” This will also be the first-ever Disney ride dedicated to the Muppets, promising a unique and laughter-filled experience, complete with new tunes and themed merchandise along Sunset Boulevard. The timing is also opportune, following the success of the Disney+ series, The Muppets Mayhem, indicating Disney’s continued investment in the beloved franchise.
Beyond the Rock ‘N’ Roller Coaster transformation, Hollywood Studios is undergoing further expansion with the previously announced Monsters, Inc. land. First revealed at D23, this new area will immerse guests in Monstropolis, featuring a suspended roller coaster inspired by the film’s door vault scene, along with shopping, dining, and a new theater show.
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The arrival of Monstropolis, however, means change for the existing Muppets Courtyard. To make way for the Monsters, Inc. land, Muppet Courtyard, home to the long-running fan favorite Muppet*Vision 3D, along with dining locations like Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano and PizzeRizzo, will be closing. Muppet*Vision 3D, a project with historical significance as one of Jim Henson’s last works, opened in 1991 and holds a special place for many Disney fans. Disney has acknowledged the legacy of Muppet*Vision 3D and is exploring ways to preserve the film and other elements of the experience for future enjoyment. “As we move forward with these changes, we are having creative conversations and exploring ways to preserve the film and other parts of the experience for fans to enjoy in the future,” the Disney Parks Blog post noted.
These exciting changes at Hollywood Studios are part of a broader wave of reimagining across Walt Disney World. Other projects include a new Cars-themed area coming to Magic Kingdom and an Encanto-themed attraction planned for Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park. The Muppets-themed Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster promises to be a highlight in this evolution, blending thrill and family-friendly fun in a way only Disney can. Stay tuned for more updates on the transformation of this Hollywood Studios favorite into a Muppets-inspired adventure!
