Since the announcement was made back in August, it seems like we’ve only been hearing about the progress of the Disneyland version of Star Wars Land on the West Coast. That could partially be because Imagineers are altering a major attraction that has been a part of the beloved theme park since its opening day in 1955, but fans must be wondering what changes are coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios when a galaxy far, far away (along with another brand new land inspired by the ‘Toy Story’ films) lands at the Florida vacation destination. Well, now we know what will be forced out in favor of a larger Jedi presence in the former Disney-MGM Studios.
In an official statement on the Disney Parks Blog, the House of Mouse revealed that the Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show and nearby locations around Streets of America will be closing on April 2, 2016, to make way for Star Wars Land and Toy Story Land. Created in 2002 for Disneyland Paris, the show made its way to America in 2005 as part of the Happiest Celebration On Earth in honor of Disneyland’s 50th anniversary. It showcased a number of exciting and energetic car-based stunts that gave the audience a glimpse into how some of their favorite action movies were made.
But the stunt show isn’t the only thing set to go during the upcoming expansion in Walt Disney World. The Orlando Sentinel is reporting that the iconic Earful Tower will be demolished along with the ‘Honey, I Shrunk The Kids’ Movie Set Adventure, the Studio Catering Co. restaurant, and a ‘Monsters Inc. meet-and-greet area. The recognizable water tower with Mickey ears served as the park’s icon from 1989-2001 when it was replaced by a stylized Sorcerer’s Hat from ‘Fantasia’ and then again in 2015 when the hat was removed. It was also an homage to the water tower found on the lot at the Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, California. And though it will be sad to see it go, the park has been slowly going through a rebranding process that may or may not feature another name change in the near future, so it’s not that surprising to see elements of the original concept disappearing. Let’s just hope that The Great Movie Ride will stay right where it is as these numerous changes are made.
What do you think about the closures coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios in order to begin construction on Star Wars Land and Toy Story Land? Which of the attractions will you miss the most? Let us know in the comments.