Disney’s Hollywood Studios is gearing up for a whimsical change as the iconic Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith is slated to be reimagined with a Muppets theme. The announcement, made via Disney Parks Blog, has ignited excitement among Disney and Muppets fans alike. This transformation marks a significant shift for the high-speed coaster, promising a blend of thrills and Muppet-style humor.
According to Disney Parks Blog, the decision to infuse The Muppets into the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster stems from the beloved characters’ energetic and humorous nature, which is seen as a perfect match for the coaster’s thrilling experience. This re-theming will also be historic, as it will be the first-ever Disney ride dedicated to The Muppets. Park visitors can anticipate a ride filled with laughter, excitement, and brand new tunes, complemented by a range of Muppets-themed merchandise available on Sunset Boulevard.
While details regarding the closure of the current Aerosmith-themed attraction and the opening date of the Muppets version remain under wraps, Disney assures fans that there is still ample opportunity to experience the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster in its current form. Since its debut in 1999, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster has been a major draw for thrill-seekers at Hollywood Studios, featuring high-speed launches and inversions set to Aerosmith’s greatest hits. The ride recently underwent refurbishment, fueling speculation about potential changes to the attraction.
The move to incorporate The Muppets into a major attraction reflects a growing demand from Disney enthusiasts for greater Muppets representation within the theme parks. This announcement aligns with the success of the 2023 Disney+ series, The Muppets Mayhem, suggesting a strategic effort to leverage the Muppets’ renewed popularity.
In conjunction with the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster news, Disney also provided an update on the highly anticipated Monsters, Inc. land, initially unveiled at the D23 Expo. This new immersive area, a first of its kind dedicated to Monsters, Inc., will feature a family-friendly suspended roller coaster inspired by the film’s iconic door vault scene. Guests can also look forward to themed shopping, dining, and a new theater show within the Monsters, Inc. land.
To create space for the immersive Monstropolis, the existing Muppets Courtyard will be replaced. This area currently houses Muppet*Vision 3D, a long-time fan favorite and one of Jim Henson’s final projects, along with dining locations like Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano and PizzeRizzo. Disney has acknowledged the legacy of Muppet*Vision 3D, which opened in 1991, and has expressed intentions to explore ways to preserve the film and other elements of the experience for future enjoyment.
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These changes are part of a broader wave of reimagining and expansion projects across Walt Disney World. Other notable developments include a Cars-themed land coming to Magic Kingdom and an Encanto-inspired area planned for Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park. The Muppets re-theming of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster and the introduction of Monsters, Inc. land signal an exciting era of evolution for Disney’s Hollywood Studios, promising fresh and engaging experiences for park guests.
