Walt Comes to Life: ‘A Magical Life’ Opens May 2025 for Disneyland’s 70th

“To all who come to this happy place: welcome. Disneyland is your land. Here age relives fond memories of the past, and here youth may savor the challenge and promise of the future.”

Those timeless words were spoken by Walt Disney on Disneyland’s opening day, July 17, 1955, setting the stage for a place where dreams come true and imagination thrives. Seventy years later, Disneyland continues to honor Walt’s vision, and on May 16, 2025, a groundbreaking new attraction will bring his legacy to life like never before:

“Walt Disney – A Magical Life” officially opens to guests on this historic day, offering an unforgettable experience as part of Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary Celebration.

Announced during the D23 Ultimate Disney Fan Event 2024, this new show will rotate with Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln and will feature Walt Disney’s first-ever Audio-Animatronics figure. Combining cutting-edge technology with heartfelt storytelling, the experience brings Walt’s world to life in ways never imagined.

Relive Walt’s Vision: A Journey Through Time

The Main Street Opera House will be transformed into Walt Disney’s studio office, creating an intimate and immersive setting that highlights his groundbreaking achievements and visionary creativity. Through the magic of Audio-Animatronics and detailed design, guests will feel as though they’ve stepped into a conversation with Walt himself, gaining insights into his enduring philosophies:

The show captures the essence of Walt’s personality—from his signature twinkle to his expressive gestures—all crafted with meticulous care by the Disney Imagineers.

Behind the Scenes: The First Walt Disney Audio-Animatronics Figure

The creation of Walt Disney’s Audio-Animatronics figure is nothing short of a technological and artistic marvel. Imagineers collaborated closely with the Walt Disney Archives, studying his mannerisms, speeches, and photographs to ensure every detail was authentic.

Tom Fitzgerald, Senior Creative Executive at Walt Disney Imagineering, explained,
“This project has been a labor of love. Walt’s story remains as inspirational today as ever, and we hope this attraction gives guests a deeper connection to the man behind the magic.”

The figure incorporates the most advanced innovations in Audio-Animatronics, making it the most lifelike human figure Imagineering has ever created. Brian Orr, Show Systems Studio Executive at Imagineering, shared, “Our job is to make sure Walt feels believable and connects with the audience, as he’s done with so many people across the world.”

Mark Your Calendar: May 16, 2025: Part of the Disneyland 70th Anniversary Celebration.