Diller’s Haunted Mansion – Disney’s Haunted TV Special from 1972
In 1972, Disney invited television viewers into a haunted house like no other. Aired as the fourth episode of The Mouse Factory, “Spooks and Magic” premiered on February 16, 1972, and featured a delightfully eerie host—comedy legend Phyllis Diller.
As the Ghost Host of “Diller’s Midnight Manor,” Phyllis welcomes viewers to a retirement home for worn-out witches, ghosts, and goblins. Every night is Halloween inside the manor, and the chills and laughs are non-stop. For Disney fans, one location stands out immediately: the “Midnight Manor” is, in fact, none other than Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion, which had opened just a few years prior.
Inside the Haunted Halls of Disney Magic
The special blends original footage with a tour of the Haunted Mansion attraction. It also features a series of spooky (and silly) appearances by classic Disney characters and creatures, including the Big Bad Wolf, Hunchback, Dracula, and Frankenstein.
To round out the episode, Disney sprinkled in clips from vintage Mickey Mouse cartoons, adding a dose of animation nostalgia to this half-hour of ghoulish fun.
A Retro Halloween Treat
While not as well-known as other Disney specials, Diller’s Haunted Mansion remains a unique and memorable Halloween-themed episode. It captures both the playful spookiness of the Haunted Mansion and the whimsical energy of Disney’s 1970s TV programming.
For fans of Disney history, classic attractions, and forgotten TV treasures, this episode of The Mouse Factory is worth a watch—and a revisit every Halloween season.
Youtube Version
Looking for More Halloween? Check out the Hocus Pocus Villian Spelltacular. Hallow-Wishes. Villains Mix and Mingle. Mickey’s no So Scary. DTV monster hits. Decorating Disney Halloween. Haunted Mansion Holiday. Disney’s Halloween Treat. Dillier’s Midnight Mansion. Must Do Disney that included the Halloween Party.
