Disney Villains Steal the Spotlight
At Destination D23 2025, the Icons of Evil panel showcased Disney’s most infamous villains in spectacular fashion. Hosted by Michelle Khare, the event opened with a mischievous medley by Disney on Broadway performers.
Behind the Darkness
Imagineers Caroline May and Wyatt Winter revealed fresh details about the upcoming villains-themed land at Magic Kingdom. They introduced the idea of “Conjured Architecture,” blending European Art Nouveau with fantastical Disney design. Disney Legend Andreas Deja, who created Scar, Gaston, and Jafar, is consulting on the project, ensuring an authentic artistic vision. The panel also featured rarely seen concept art, archival recordings, and stories showing how subtle choices in design, sound, and color turned characters like Maleficent and Ursula into unforgettable icons.
Villains Across Disney Experiences
The villainous spirit extended far beyond the panel. Syndrome will debut at Oogie Boogie Bash near Pixar Pier, scattering treats in true super-villain fashion. Guests aboard the Disney Destiny cruise ship will step into Dr. Facilier’s eerie parlor for a unique “meet and play” experience. Over at Hong Kong Disneyland, “Uninvited! A Villains Takeover Party” launches on September 19 with a cavalcade, street show, and musical spectacle led by Maleficent and friends.
Wicked Merchandise Reveals
The showcase also included villain-inspired products. A new Bath & Body Works collection channels the essence of Maleficent and the Evil Queen, while Mattel’s Ursula doll from the Darkness Descends Series dazzled fans with iridescent tentacles and theatrical design. The Ursula doll joins Maleficent (2023) and Cruella de Vil (2024) in the collector’s line and launches September 7.
Why Villains Endure
Heroes inspire us, but villains test them—and in doing so, captivate our imagination. The Icons of Evil panel proved that villains are not side characters; they are central to Disney’s storytelling heartbeat. With new lands, live entertainment, and collectibles on the horizon, it has never been clearer: being bad has never looked so good.
