It’s Frozen at Walt Disney World
This week at Walt Disney World felt more like winter than Florida. Cold temperatures settled across the resort, creating an unusual backdrop for park visits. While the chill surprised many guests, it also gave the parks a very different vibe, especially with lighter crowds and brisk evenings.
A New Era of Disney Leadership Begins
One of the biggest Disney stories in years officially became reality. Josh D’Amaro has been named the new CEO of The Walt Disney Company, while Dana Walden steps into the role of Chief Operating Officer.
Sam and Greg reflected on how quickly this moment arrived, especially after previously speculating about future leadership. The conversation focused on what this leadership team could mean for the parks, creative direction, and long-term strategy across the company.
Dinoland U.S.A. Is Officially Gone
A major chapter at Disney’s Animal Kingdom has closed. Dinoland U.S.A. has been removed from all park maps, and the final rides on DINOSAUR are now over.
For many fans, this marks the end of an era tied to the park’s opening-day identity. Greg shared his reactions as the attraction officially closed, while the conversation quickly turned toward what comes next.
As part of their research, Imagineers are looking at some of the most biodiverse areas on the planet in the regions just north and south of the equator here in the Western Hemisphere – the northern part of South America, stretching up into Central America.
The focus now shifts to Tropical Americas, the next major transformation coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom. With Dinoland gone, the future of the area is officially underway.
Character Meet-and-Greets Move Around the Parks
As construction reshapes parts of Walt Disney World, some familiar experiences have relocated. Greg tracked down new locations for character meet-and-greets, including Chip and Dale, giving guests updated options for character photos and interactions.
These changes highlight how the parks continue to adapt while larger projects move forward.
Park News from Both Coasts and Beyond
The show also covered a wide range of additional park news. At Disneyland, Savannah Banana Days are back, bringing high-energy fun and fan excitement to the West Coast.
Back in Florida, Zootopia Annual Passholder magnets are now available at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Meanwhile, Disney confirmed that Toy Story 5 activations are coming to the parks, adding even more Pixar presence for fans to enjoy.
Greg also took the conversation outside the Disney bubble, sharing highlights from Universal’s Mardi Gras celebrations, offering a quick look at what’s happening across Central Florida theme parks.
Popcorn Bucket Watch Continues
No week would be complete without a fresh batch of popcorn buckets. New designs continue to appear at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World, showing no signs of slowing down.
Among the highlights is the new Disney California Adventure Pixar Pal-A-Round popcorn bucket, joining an already crowded lineup of collectibles. As always, Greg broke down what’s new and what fans are lining up to buy.
The Muppet Show Returns — and It’s a Big Deal
One of the most exciting moments of the week is the return of The Muppet Show. Sam and Greg both agreed that this comeback deserves time and attention, and it’s a topic they plan to revisit in depth.
Along with the show’s return, the ongoing Missing Muppets series continues. This week added another character to the list of Muppets who didn’t make the 70th Anniversary magnet set, keeping the conversation alive and growing.
All That and More with Sam & Greg Live
From freezing temperatures and leadership changes to park closures, popcorn buckets, and the return of the Muppets, it was another packed episode.
Join Sam and Greg every week for This Week at Walt Disney World LIVE, where Disney news, park changes, and fan conversation come together.
