“For 138 years, National Geographic has been guided by a spirit of exploration that opens hearts as much as it expands minds,” said Courteney Monroe, president, National Geographic. “With ‘Step Into Wonder,’ we’re putting that spirit at the center of Disney’s Earth Month, creating a platform for stories that spark a love for our planet and inspire families to step outside and celebrate the everyday wonders of our world.”

As the driving force behind “Step Into Wonder,” National Geographic is inviting audiences of all ages to experience the wonders of the planet—both big and small—and care for the world everyone shares. The global storytelling campaign features an exciting lineup of engaging content, including the premiere of National Geographic’s Secrets of the Bees, and digital and experiential activations that spark curiosity and exploration. “Step Into Wonder” activations throughout Earth Month include the following:

The Wonder List
A digital hub, Kids YouTube series, and printable PDF filled with simple, surprising prompts that encourage families to explore the world around them. Each week in April highlights a theme—Stars, Clouds, Trees, or Rocks—with daily ideas for hands-on discovery.

The Wonder List Event (April 17-23)
An experiential activation at the La Brea Tar Pits in Los Angeles, California, that is inspired by the Wonder List’s four weekly themes. The event features large photo-worthy Nat Geo Yellow Border frames, interactive medium frames, and discoverable small frames, all designed for guests to snap, explore, and experience the magic of nature all around them.

The Earth Month Collection on Disney+
The Earth Month Collection on Disney+ will celebrate the wonders of our planet through acclaimed National Geographic content such as Ocean with David Attenborough (2025), Cheetahs Up Close with Bertie Gregory (2026), and the second season of A Real Bug’s Life (2025).

Earth Moods: Livestream Experience
An ambient, meditative livestream with curated Earth Moods episodes and Earth Moods: Frequencies Volume 1 by Maejor. The experience will stream 24/7 all month long on @NatGeo’s YouTube, with special Earth Day livestreams on Facebook and TikTok.

“Step Into Wonder” Earth Month Social Series
A daily social video series highlighting National Geographic and Disney talent, along with National Geographic Explorers, sharing their personal moments of wonder, including Piper Curda, Kermit the Frog, Antoni Porowski, National Geographic Explorer Joel Sartore, and Will Smith.

Nat Geo Social
National Geographic, one of the most-followed brands on social media, will also bring the “Step Into Wonder” campaign to its global social community of more than 801 million followers with daily curated posts, as well as content highlights connected to the Earth Month Collection on Disney+. Company social handles will celebrate Earth Month across Instagram, Facebook, X, Threads, YouTube, and TikTok, including @Disney, @Disney+, @NatGeo, @NatGeoTV, @NatGeoAnimals, @NatGeoTravel, @NatGeoHistory, @NatGeoScience, @NatGeoYourShot, @NatGeoFamily, and @NatGeoDocs.

YourShot Earth Month Challenge
The Earth Month edition of the YourShot Challenge invites the global photography community to capture images that reflect the wonder of the natural world. Tag #NatGeoYourShot by April 22 for a chance to be featured on @NatGeoYourShot on Instagram.

Nat Geo Digital Editorial
Earth Month editorial packages will appear across NatGeo.com and social platforms, including content such as National Parks Guides, One Week Naturalist packages tied to the Wonder List themes, Photo of the Day, and Birding content.
Disney+ Perks: Free Six-Month National Geographic Digital Subscription

Disney+ is introducing a brand-new Disney+ Perk, offering eligible subscribers a no-strings-attached six-month National Geographic digital subscription. Subscribers who redeem the subscription can also unlock an add-on offer for three complimentary National Geographic Kids magazines, available once the digital subscription is activated. Offer is valid from April 2 through April 30. Visit www.disneyplus.com/perks for more information.*

Two global premieres will also debut this Earth Month: Nat Geo’s Secrets of the Bees and Disneynature’s Orangutan.

National Geographic’s Secrets of the Bees, from National Geographic Explorer at Large and executive producer James Cameron, is now streaming on Disney+ and Hulu. Hosted and narrated by Emmy® and BAFTA Award-winning National Geographic Explorer Bertie Gregory, the two-part series uses groundbreaking filming technology to reveal the extraordinary world of bees. With the expertise of entomologist and fellow National Geographic Explorer Dr. Samuel Ramsey, the series uncovers their astonishing architecture and intelligence, unlocking their secrets, and featuring never-before-filmed moments.

Disneynature’s Orangutan premieres April 22 on Disney+. Narrated by Josh Gad, this all-new, original film takes viewers high in the treetops of the world’s most majestic rainforest canopy in Southeast Asia, where a magnificent and mysterious community filled with playful personalities lives. The immersive feature introduces Indah, an inquisitive adolescent orangutan learning how to navigate life as she prepares to leave her family and venture out on her own for the first time.

In celebration of Disneynature’s Orangutan, the Disney Conservation Fund is supporting Wildlife Conservation International and their partner, Forum Konservasi Leuser, to protect Sumatran orangutans across more than five million acres of forest habitat—and to help rebuild the Ketambe Research Center and support rangers impacted by catastrophic flooding.

The post Disney And National Geographic Invite Audiences To ‘Step Into Wonder’ first appeared on the Disney Driven Life.

“D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event is where we come together to give our incredible fans an early look at what’s coming next across our company, while celebrating the legacy of the extraordinary people whose creativity has shaped Disney into what it is today,” said Josh D’Amaro, Chief Executive Officer of The Walt Disney Company. “It’s an honor to celebrate our Disney Legends — their impact is felt in everything we do and recognizing them alongside the fans who love their work is what makes this event so meaningful.”

Emmy®-winning television host Ryan Seacrest will return as the host of the ceremony that will take place on Sunday, August 16, at 1:30 p.m. PT at the Honda Center. The event will be filled with tributes and unforgettable moments to honor and celebrate the icons behind the magic who have made a lasting impact on Disney. The ceremony will once again be available on Disney+, allowing fans around the world to experience the magic wherever they are.

The 2026 Disney Legends Award honorees represent the extraordinary breadth of talent and storytellers who have defined Disney across entertainment, storytelling, and experiences for generations. From performance and animation, to music and sports, to leadership and Imagineering, these honorees have shaped how audiences around the world connect with Disney stories. During his two decades at the helm of The Walt Disney Company, former Chairman and CEO Bob Iger led Disney to unprecedented creative and business success, building on Disney’s rich history of unforgettable storytelling and serving as steward of the world’s most respected and beloved brands. Susan Egan, Dwayne Johnson, Anne Hathaway, and Alan Tudyk brought unforgettable characters to life on-screen and on-stage, lending their voices, performances, and star power to films, series, and musical moments that have become part of the cultural fabric. From the Jonas Brothers shaping a generation of Disney music to Lin‑Manuel Miranda’s groundbreaking songwriting for modern Disney favorites, alongside Eric Goldberg’s artistry and animation that brought beloved characters to life, these contributions have continually pushed Disney storytelling forward with innovation and heart.

Together, these creative forces are joined by visionaries whose impact extends beyond individual performances to the very foundation of Disney’s legacy and future. Jerry Bruckheimer’s prolific producing career has delivered cinematic spectacles that continue to define blockbuster storytelling, while Chris Berman’s pioneering voice and presence helped shape ESPN into a global sports and entertainment powerhouse. Kim Irvine ’s decades of leadership at Walt Disney Imagineering left an indelible mark on Disney parks and experiences, preserving heritage while championing creativity. Collectively, the 2026 Disney Legends Award honorees embody the creative excellence, bold vision, and enduring influence that continue to shape Disney’s past, present, and future.

The Disney Legends Awards program is a 39-year tradition of The Walt Disney Company, which began when Fred MacMurray (The Shaggy Dog, The Absent-Minded Professor, The Happiest Millionaire) was honored in 1987. Including this year’s honorees, a total of 329 Disney Legends has been named.

Past Disney Legends include Tim Allen, Dame Julie Andrews, Angela Bassett, Tony Baxter, Kristen Bell, James Cameron, Jamie Lee Curtis, Miley Cyrus, Marc Davis, Robert Downey Jr., Harrison Ford, Annette Funicello, Josh Gad, Whoopi Goldberg, Jonathan Groff, Steve Jobs, Sir Elton John, Dame Angela Lansbury, Stan Lee, George Lucas, Steve Martin, Burny Mattinson, Alan Menken, Idina Menzel, Hayley Mills, Fess Parker, Ellen Pompeo, Robin Roberts, the Sherman Brothers, Marty Sklar, Dick Van Dyke, Barbara Walters, Betty White, John Williams, Robin Williams, and Oprah Winfrey, among many others.

BIOS

RYAN SEACREST – HOST
Ryan Seacrest is an Emmy-Winning television host, radio personality, mega producer, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. As one of the most recognizable and trusted voices in media today, Seacrest is the host and producer of the #1 Los Angeles morning drive-time show for iHeartMedia’s 102.7 KIIS-FM, the internationally syndicated “On Air with Ryan Seacrest” and “American Top 40 with Ryan Seacrest.” In Fall 2024, he took the reins hosting “Wheel of Fortune,” launching a new era of the beloved syndicated game show, which currently ranks as the #2 syndicated show in the United States. Seacrest also hosts “Celebrity Wheel of Fortune”. For 24 seasons, Seacrest has hosted television’s ground-breaking singing competition series, ABC’s “American Idol,” and earned several Emmy Award nominations for his work on the show. Additionally, since 2005 Seacrest has been the host and executive producer of the annual live broadcast of “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest,” which remains the number one broadcast of the night year after year. Seacrest has also produced a number of hit series including E!’s “Keeping Up With The Kardashians” and its spinoffs, as well as E!’s “E! Live From The Red Carpet,” Netflix’s “Insatiable,” NBC’s “Shades of Blue” starring Jennifer Lopez, and the Emmy Award-winning series “Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution” for ABC. Seacrest’s philanthropic efforts include serving as founder and chairman of the Ryan Seacrest Foundation (RSF), which has successfully installed fourteen broadcast media centers – Seacrest Studios – in pediatric hospitals nationwide with the next opening in New Orleans. Seacrest Studios reaches an estimated 3.1 million patients and families through its programming annually.

The 2026 Disney Legends Award honorees (listed alphabetically) are:

CHRIS BERMAN
In 1979, a new cable network hired a novice broadcaster, and they both became legendary. The network was ESPN, and the then-24-year-old talent was Chris Berman, now a celebrated and influential figure in the world of sports broadcasting. At the time, this was unprecedented: there had never been anything on television like ESPN before; the people who worked there invented it as they did it. As ESPN moved into the 1980s and quickly became the destination for viewers to turn to for sports and sports news, Chris played a significant role in shaping ESPN’s tone, as he made a unique connection with audiences. He was part of ESPN’s coverage of the NFL Draft for the first time and has covered everything from the World Series and the Super Bowl to Monday Night Football and the U.S. Open. He grew with ESPN and became an audience favorite, being selected as National Sportscaster of the Year on several occasions (1989, 1990, 1993, 1994, 1996, and 2001). Other honors include the distinguished Pete Rozelle Radio-Television Award® from the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010. In 2017, Chris was inducted into the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame and in 2010, he received a coveted star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. In January 2017, ESPN fittingly renamed its NFL broadcast studio in Bristol, Connecticut, “The Chris Berman–Tom Jackson Studio,” in honor of NFL PrimeTime , widely regarded as the most popular NFL highlights show in television history. A plaque displayed outside the studio reads in part: “Their 29-year on-air partnership is a sports television record that has earned them a special place in the hearts and minds of football fans everywhere.” The six-time National Sportscaster of the Year will be part of ESPN’s first-ever Super Bowl coverage in 2027.

JERRY BRUCKHEIMER
The most successful film and television producer of all time, Academy Award®-nominated  Jerry Bruckheimer’s credits include the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise, Top Gun (1986), National Treasure (2004), Bad Boys (1995), and Beverly Hills Cop (1984) franchises, as well as such hits as Black Hawk Down (2001), Pearl Harbor (2001), Remember the Titans (2000), Enemy of the State (1998), Armageddon (1998), Con Air (1997), The Rock (1997), Crimson Tide (1995), and Flashdance (1983). His most recent blockbuster F1 grossed over $631 million at the global box office, becoming the highest grossing sports movie of all time. The film received four Academy Award® nominations including Best Picture and won the Oscar® for Best Sound. In 2024, he had a slate that included 4 new releases, The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare, Young Woman and the Sea, Bad Boys: Ride or Die, and Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F. He recently scored the biggest hit of his career with Top Gun: Maverick (2022) which reunited him with Tom Cruise for a long-awaited sequel to the 1986 original. The film ended its theatrical run with a global box office of nearly $1.5 billion and received six Academy Award nominations including Best Picture and won the Oscar for Best Sound. Bruckheimer is also one of the most dominant producers on television, with three series currently on the air. Together, Fire Country, Sheriff Country, and Boston Blue make up CBS’s “Bruckheimer Fridays” programming block.  And the ten-time Emmy Award®–winning The Amazing Race returns later this year for its 39th season. In a career spanning more than 50 years, Bruckheimer’s films have collectively grossed nearly $15 billion at the global box office. He has produced over 2,000 hours of television. His productions have been recognized with countless awards including Oscars, Emmys, Golden Globes®, People’s Choice®, Critics Choice®, and GRAMMY® honors.

SUSAN EGAN
This multitalented performer holds a distinctive place in Disney history, as the first actress to bring a Disney heroine to life on Broadway when she originated the role of Belle in Beauty and the Beast, earning both Tony Award® and Drama Desk® nominations for Best Actress, and as the iconic voice of the sharp-witted femme fatale, Megara, in the animated feature Hercules (1997). Susan’s journey began just a few miles from Disneyland at the Orange County School of the Arts and then UCLA, where she was honored with a Carol Burnett Musical Theatre Award®. After moving to New York and making her Broadway and animation debuts with Disney, Susan continued to star in many more Broadway productions, while voicing additional characters for Disney, including the English dubs of two Studio Ghibli films, Lin in the Academy-Award winning Spirited Away (2002), and Gina in Porco Rosso (2005), recording two songs as Angel in Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp’s Adventure (2001), as well as guest appearances on The Simpsons and Amphibia. In addition to her performing career, Susan is a prolific executive producer of live global concert events, partnering with multiple divisions of Disney. Through their company, 10th & Main Productions, she and partner Adam J. Levy have produced: Walt Disney Animation Studios: The Concert and Disney ‘80s–’90s Celebration in Concert at the Hollywood Bowl and Disney All Stars in Taipei for Disney Concerts, Disney Hits Live for the Disney Vacation Club, and the Broadway Stars Series and Heroes & Villains for Disney Cruise Line. As managing partners of Broadway Princess Party LLC, they also produce Disney Princess – The Concert , which has toured 20 countries across five continents since 2021. In November 2025, Susan was named the Official Godmother of the Disney Destiny, the Disney Cruise Line ship which features various spaces inspired by her legendary roles, including the beautifully themed Café Megara.

ERIC GOLDBERG
Acclaimed as one of the industry’s top animators, designers, and directors, Eric Goldberg has brought to life some of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ most unforgettable characters. Born in Levittown, Pennsylvania, Eric has been drawing cartoons since he was four years old. After studying illustration, filmmaking and animation at Brooklyn’s Pratt Institute, he entered the animation profession in the mid-1970s. In the 1980s, Eric started his own London-based studio, Pizazz Pictures, producing animated television commercials. Then came along an opportunity from John Musker and Ron Clements, directors of Disney Animation’s then in-development Aladdin (1992). In designing and animating Genie, Eric made Aladdin’s shape-shifting sidekick the ultimate animated character: since Genie can transform himself into any shape at any second, Eric’s quicksilver animation had him assume rapid-fire forms—everything from a bee to Jack Nicholson to Walt Disney’s own Pinocchio. Eric next directed Pocahontas (1995) alongside Mike Gabriel and served as the supervising animator for the wisecracking satyr, Phil, in Hercules (1997). At the turn of the millennium, Goldberg developed and directed the “Rhapsody in Blue” and “Carnival of the Animals, Finale” segments of Fantasia/2000 (2000). This veteran artist has also added his expertise to animation of the CG variety—but with a Goldberg twist. Eric supported such films as Moana (2016) and Moana 2 (2024) by overseeing the animation of the Mini Maui character with hand-drawn flair. He was also the supervising animator for the lovable alligator, Louis, in 2009’s The Princess and the Frog. Most recently, Eric oversaw the hand-drawn animation seen in Mickey: The Story of a Mouse (2022) and was head of hand-drawn animation on Disney Animation’s Emmy®-winning short film, Once Upon a Studio, created to celebrate Disney’s 100th anniversary in 2023. In 2025, Eric wrote, directed, and led the animation for the custom episode of Hot Ones featuring Donald Duck. He is also part of a blue-ribbon team supervising the extensive film restorations of such classics as Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937) and Cinderella (1950).

ANNE HATHAWAY
A veteran actor of stage and screen, with memorable performances spanning everywhere from the fictitious likes of Genovia and Wonderland to the high-rise offices of the real-world international fashion industry, few in Hollywood have left the indelible impact on the many realms of popular culture as Anne Hathaway. Born in New York City, Anne became a student of the performing arts from a young age, before eventually landing at both Vassar College and later New York University. Anne’s Disney career began with her turn as the memorable Mia Thermopolis in both The Princess Diaries (2001) and The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement (2004), both starring-vessels that firmly planted her Hollywood roots at the feet of adoring fanbases across the globe. She was later cast as the mild-mannered White Queen in Tim Burton’s Academy Award®-winning take on Alice in Wonderland (2010) and its follow-up, Alice Through the Looking Glass (2016). With additional appearances in Ella Enchanted (2004), and Becoming Jane (2007), the actress also voiced Haru in the 2005 English dub of Studio Ghibli’s The Cat Returns (2002). Her earlier 20th Century Studios film and television credits include Get Real (TV, 1999-2000), an Emmy®-winning cameo appearance on The Simpsons, Family Guy, Love & Other Drugs (2010) , and the popular animated features Rio (2011) and Rio 2 (2014) for Blue Sky Studios. The much-lauded recipient of Oscar®, Golden Globe®, Emmy®, Critics’ Choice®, Screen Actors Guild®, and BAFTA Awards, Anne will reprise her role as the fashion-forward Andy Sachs in The Devil Wears Prada 2, due to theaters in May 2026.

BOB IGER
Widely recognized as one of the world’s most consequential business leaders, Bob Iger led The Walt Disney Company for two decades. As CEO, he oversaw the acquisitions of Pixar (2006), Marvel (2009), Lucasfilm (2012), and 21st Century Fox (2019), along with the landmark opening of Disney’s first theme park and resort in mainland China, Shanghai Disney Resort, and the record-breaking release of more than 30 films that have each grossed more than $1 billion at the global box office. Always one to embrace technology, Iger made Disney an industry leader through its creative content offerings across multiple new platforms, including the launch of Disney+ and the launch of ESPN’s direct-to-consumer service. Born in New York City, he was raised in Oceanside, New York. After serving as a weatherman at a local TV station, Iger began his career at ABC in 1974 and has more than 50 years of service with The Walt Disney Company. As Chairman of the ABC Group, Iger oversaw the broadcast television network and station group, cable television properties, and radio and publishing businesses, and also guided the complex merger between Capital Cities/ABC, Inc., and The Walt Disney Company. He officially joined the Disney senior management team in 1996 as Chairman of the Disney-owned ABC Group, and in 1999, was given the additional responsibility of President, Walt Disney International. In that role, Iger expanded and coordinated Disney’s presence outside of the United States, establishing the blueprint for the company’s international growth today. From 2000 to 2005, Iger served as Disney’s President and Chief Operating Officer. Iger was first appointed CEO of Disney in October 2005 and was elected Chairman in 2012. In February 2020, he assumed the role of Executive Chairman and directed the company’s creative endeavors until December 2021. He returned as CEO in November 2022 and led Disney until March 2026. His strategic vision has focused on three fundamental pillars: generating the best creative content possible; fostering innovation and embracing technology; and expanding into new markets across the globe. Iger is the author of the New York Times best-selling book The Ride of a Lifetime: Lessons Learned from 15 Years as CEO of The Walt Disney Company, published in 2019.

KIM IRVINE
Over her 55 years at Walt Disney Imagineering, the leadership of Kim Irvine has resulted in an enduring legacy of creativity and elevated artistic standards across Disney parks globally, but especially at Walt Disney’s original magic kingdom, Disneyland. At the time of her retirement in 2024, Kim served as Executive Creative Director of Walt Disney Imagineering’s Anaheim office and oversaw the concept design, color styling, and interior design for most Disneyland® Resort projects. A Southern California native, this prolific Imagineer “grew up” with Disney as a living experience in her own home. Her father was an animator at the studio, Harvey Toombs, and her mother was Imagineer and Disney Legend, Leota Toombs, who among her many accomplishments left an indelible mark on Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion as the visage of the ethereal Madame Leota. In 2001, when elements from Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas were incorporated as a seasonal overlay for the same attraction, Imagineers asked if Kim would be the new face of Madame Leota. In 1970, Kim forged her own path as a painter and model builder at WED Enterprises (now Walt Disney Imagineering) in the firm’s famed model shop— making hats for bears, putting feathers on birds, and painting mock-ups of all types—including working on “it’s a small world” for Walt Disney World® Resort. Her experiences were vast. Among many other projects large and small, she was instrumental in opening the first Imagineering office in Anaheim (a site she’d eventually help lead), the design of the Rancho Del Zocalo Restaurante, the Disneyland Dream Suite, the refurbishment of “it’s a small world”, remodeling Club 33, the Jolly Holiday Bakery Café, and the constant design supervision of the Park’s iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle. In 2011, Irvine became the first female recipient of the prestigious Buzz Price Thea Award® for a Lifetime of Outstanding Achievements from the Themed Entertainment Association®.

DWAYNE JOHNSON
In a career defined by breaking stereotypes, Dwayne Johnson began by rewriting a well-worn cliché. For him, necessity was the mother of reinvention. After a nomadic childhood marked by economic insecurity, Johnson was down to his last $7. At 23, he had just seen his dream of playing professional football slip away. Rather than retreat, Johnson threw himself into the first of a series of bold transformations. Over his father’s objections (but with his mother’s blessing), Johnson plunged headlong into professional wrestling. Less than a decade later, he would cement himself as the most popular and successful wrestler of all time. Johnson risked that success by reinventing himself once more as an actor and, over the years, eventually becoming the highest-paid leading man in Hollywood. He followed that by expanding into producing film, TV, and digital programming through the resonantly named Seven Bucks Productions. In addition, Johnson wrote a memoir that became a New York Times #1 bestseller and has channeled his other, varied passions into a range of philanthropic and entrepreneurial endeavors. Johnson’s most visible transformation came in a career-redefining portrayal of UFC fighter Mark Kerr in The Smashing Machine, the first solo directing effort by Benny Safdie. Outwardly transforming into Kerr was arduous, involving more than 20 prosthetics and taking four hours per day (the film received an Academy Award nomination for Achievement in Makeup and Hairstyling). Johnson’s inner transformation was a revelation, as his performance earned him a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor in a Motion Picture, Drama. Next up, Johnson will reunite with Safdie, transforming again into an eccentric septuagenarian named Chicken Man in Lizard Music , based on Daniel Pinkwater’s beloved, surreal children’s novel. Then Johnson will collaborate with the legendary Martin Scorsese, who is directing the adaptation of Johnson’s true-crime book (co-written with acclaimed author Nick Bilton) about Hawaiian mob boss Wilford “Nappy” Pulawa. Johnson will star alongside Leonardo DiCaprio and Emily Blunt, and will also produce the film with Blunt. In addition, Johnson is starring in Academy Award-nominated director Darren Aronofsky’s untitled psychological thriller with A24. Johnson made his film debut in 2001’s The Mummy Returns, landed his first leading role in The Scorpion King the following year, and hasn’t looked back, grossing more than $15 billion globally, making him one of the top five box-office stars of all time. Along the way, Johnson has revived blockbusters—jump-starting the Fast & Furious franchise in 2011 and rebooting Jumanji in 2017 with two sequels—and launched his own. Johnson voiced the demigod Maui in Disney’s Academy Award-nominated animated film Moana, then reprised the role in Moana 2, which grossed more than $1 billion worldwide, and will reinvent the part for the highly anticipated live-action Moana (in theaters summer 2026). In all, Johnson has appeared in more than 40 films, including: The Rundown (2003), Be Cool (2005), Black Adam (2022) , Central Intelligence (2016) , Fighting with My Family (2019), The Game Plan (2007), Get Smart (2008), Gridiron Gang (2006), Jungle Cruise (2021), Pain and Gain (2013), Red Notice (2021), Red One (2024), San Andreas (2015), Skyscraper (2018), Walking Tall (2004), and Zootopia 2 (2025).

THE JONAS BROTHERS
Nick, Joe, and Kevin Jonas first rose to prominence in the early aughts as the Jonas Brothers and have gone on to be globally recognized as two-time GRAMMY® Award nominees, and multi-platinum pop stars as a unit and as individuals. Formed in 2005, the band of brothers soundtracked the mid-late 2000s and became celebrated household names with albums It’s About Time (2006), Jonas Brothers (2007), A Little Bit Longer (2008) and Lines, Vines and Trying Times (2009). Denizens of the stage at an early age, the New Jersey natives experienced an explosive come-uppence in their formative years as some of Disney Channel’s most prominent stars – with lead roles appearing in Camp Rock (2008), Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam (2010), and their own series JONAS (TV, 2009 –2010). While the brothers continued on to experience meteoric success as a group, their forays into individual music projects gained them further critical acclaim. 2014’s self-titled album Nick Jonas yielded the triple-platinum “Jealous,” double-platinum “Chains,” and gold-certified “Levels.” Its 2016 follow-up, Last Year Was Complicated, spawned the anthem “Close (feat. Tove Lo)” and propelled Nick’s streams into the billions. Additionally, he spent two seasons as a coach on NBC’s popular singing competition show, The Voice. Most recently, Nick released his fourth solo album Sunday Best . Joe continues to front the multi-platinum group DNCE, who debuted with the smash hit “Cake by the Ocean” in 2016. The song permeated pop culture at large, becoming an unstoppable hit, crashing the Top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 and earning the group an award for Best New Artist at the MTV Video Music Awards®. The release of their gold-certified full-length debut album, DNCE, followed, which featured additional hit singles such as the platinum-certified “Toothbrush.” While on their most recent tour, Kevin Jonas debuted his first solo single “Changing.” After branching out to individual efforts, in 2019 they notably ignited the comeback of the decade with their Platinum-Certified Republic Records debut, Happiness Begins , which included their mega hit “Sucker.” In 2023, the Jonas Brothers were honored with their own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and were celebrated with the Hand and Footprint ceremony in 2025. As for their Disney roots, it was a holiday homecoming for the brothers in 2025 with the release of A Very Jonas Christmas Movie on Disney+. 2025 marked a special year for the Jonas Brothers as they celebrated their 20th anniversary as a band. They also hosted a milestone JONASCON fan event at New Jersey’s American Dream, where they celebrated 20 years of legacy, memories, and the Jonas Brothers fan community with over 75,000 fans from all over the world in attendance. JONASCON kicked off what became an unforgettable year for the Jonas Brothers, including their brand-new album, Greetings from Your Hometown, out now, and the highly anticipated ‘JONAS20: Greetings From Your Hometown ’ Tour, which kicked off on August 10 at MetLife Stadium. Upcoming projects for this multi-talented group include another return to the Disney stage: the highly anticipated Disney Channel Original Movie, Camp Rock 3. “Music, friendship, memories,” Nick said. “We’re back, exactly where we’re supposed to be,” Joe replied. “Still no birdhouse,” added Kevin.

LIN-MANUEL MIRANDA
We may not talk about Bruno, but we definitely talk about Lin-Manuel Miranda. A Pulitzer Prize®, GRAMMY®, Emmy®, Tony Award®-winning songwriter, actor, producer, and director, Lin-Manuel Miranda is a modern-day Renaissance man. The creator and original star of Broadway’s cultural phenomenon, Hamilton, and composer of In the Heights, this acclaimed creative has dedicated his career to the art form of the great American musical on stage and screen. In early 2014, Lin-Manuel began writing songs for the animated musical feature, Moana (2016), in which the headstrong title character fulfills the lore-filled quest of her ancestors. The multi-hyphenate wrote and co-created several songs for the film, including Moana’s anthem, “How Far I’ll Go,” which earned him his first Academy Award® nomination for Best Original Song, as well as a GRAMMY Award. Miranda is returning as a producer and music collaborator on Disney’s upcoming live-action reimagining of Moana, premiering in theaters this summer. He continued his musical partnership with Walt Disney Animation Studios for 2022’s smash-hit Encanto . His eight songs for the soundtrack all charted on the Billboard Hot 100, leading him to spend 15 weeks at No. 1 on the Hot 100 Songwriters chart and to ultimately be named Billboard’s top Hot 100 songwriter of 2022. Much of that was thanks to the unlikely and explosive leader of the pack, “We Don’t Talk About Bruno,” which spent five weeks at No. 1 and has been streamed more than 100 million times. The celebrated artist also starred as Jack the Lamplighter in 2018’s Mary Poppins Returns, and in 2023 produced and collaborated with Disney Legend Alan Menken to write three new songs for the live-action reimagining of The Little Mermaid. Disney+ released the 2016 Broadway stage recording of Hamilton in 2020, and in theatres in 2025. Lin-Manuel partnered with Disney to write original songs for 2024’s Mufasa: The Lion King. Additional Disney credits include: Disney+’s Percy Jackson and the Olympians; original songs for Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015) and Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (2019); DuckTales (2017), and The Odd Life of Timothy Green (2012).

ALAN TUDYK
This multi-talented actor has appeared across stage, screen, and television, but it is his voice that has been heard by anyone who has seen Disney’s most recent animated features. He has voiced everything from a baby goat, who has the heart and soul (and voice) of a suave leading man, to a skittish rooster on his credit list—for Alan Tudyk has been in every Disney animated movie since he performed the Ed Wynn-like voice for King Candy in Wreck-It Ralph (2012). Alan has provided the unique animal sounds for Heihei in Moana (2016), Tuk Tuk in Raya and the Last Dragon (2021), and as a Toucan in Encanto (2021). He’s also given voice to Knowsmore in Ralph Breaks the Internet (2018), Heihei from Moana 2 (2024), and as Duke Weaselton in both Zootopia (2016) and Zootopia 2 (2025). Alan starred as the villainous Duke of Weselton in Frozen (2013) and returned to the sequel Frozen 2 (2019) as a variety of characters, including the Northuldra Leader. He also narrated and provided additional voices for Strange World (2022) and was the voice of Valentino the goat in Walt Disney Animation Studios’ centenary year feature, Wish (2023). Outside the walls of Disney animation, Alan also voiced the robot Sonny in the 20th Century Studios live-action feature I, Robot (2004) and performed the motion capture movements for the character. For Rouge One: A Star Wars Story (2016), the memorable droid K-2SO was Tudyk’s first Disney company voice role in a live-action film. Alan’s talents can also be heard voicing characters in Disney+ originating projects such as Monsters at Work (2021) and Zootopia+ (2022), and in Ice Age (2002) and Ice Age: The Meltdown (2006) for 20th Century Studios and Blue Sky Studios.

The post D23 ANNOUNCES 2026 DISNEY LEGENDS AWARD HONOREES first appeared on the Disney Driven Life.

“Orangutan” is directed by Mark Linfield, co-directed by Vanessa Berlowitz, and produced by Linfield, Berlowitz and Roy Conli, with original music by Nitin Sawhney. Featuring exhilarating action, heartwarming encounters, and a close-up look at a stunning jungle teeming with wildlife, the all-new original film releases on Earth Day, April 22, 2026, exclusively on Disney+.

Narrated by Josh Gad, Disneynature’s “Orangutan” journeys high into the rainforest canopy of Southeast Asia where a magnificent and mysterious community filled with playful personalities lives. Witness the exhilarating action, heartwarming encounters, and a close- up look at a stunning jungle teeming with wildlife as the inquisitive adolescent orangutan Indah prepares to leave her family and venture out on her own for the first time.

Follow along:

DISNEYNATURE

• Facebook: @Disneynature
• Instagram: @Disneynature
• X: @Disneynature
• Official: https://nature.Disney.com

The post Disneynature’s Orangutan – New Trailer first appeared on the Disney Driven Life.

A big part of my experience was watching it with my son. That changed how I viewed the movie in real time. While I was focused on pacing, structure, and areas where the film could have gone further, he was completely engrossed—no distractions, no wandering, just fully invested the entire time. That indicates the movie was doing something right.

The filmmakers didn’t overthink it. This feels like Mario: fast, colorful, a little ridiculous, and it knows when to get deep.

Many video game adaptations struggle when transitioning from console to screen. They either try to turn the game into something it’s not or strip it down so much that it hardly feels like the original. This movie commits to the essence of Mario and keeps moving forward.

Mario and Luigi actually feel like brothers in this film, which may seem like the bare minimum, but it matters a lot, especially compared to the first movie. Their relationship works; the humor lands better because of it. When they are on screen together, it feels natural instead of forced.

I was genuinely concerned about how they would handle Yoshi. That could have gone wrong very quickly. Part of me expected a Yoshi reminiscent of the old Super Mario Bros. 3 cartoon from the ’90s, where he talked and became annoying. Instead, they used him just enough; he’s fun and fits into the story without feeling overdone. That’s a win.

Bowser remains true to his character. He does a lot; sometimes it seems like he’s just moving the plot along, but he’s entertaining enough that it doesn’t really matter. There are moments, especially with Bowser Jr., where it feels like they could have explored deeper, but they don’t. The movie does this a few times: it gets close to saying something more but then backs off and keeps things simple.

Frankly, that’s probably why it works so well. The pacing never drags; it just keeps going. Visually, it helps a lot too. The whole galaxy setting feels important. The planets, their scale, and the way everything moves makes it feel like the game without trying to copy it directly.

There are numerous callbacks throughout the movie, some subtle, others more obvious. However, they never feel forced. They are just there for fans of Mario, and the film doesn’t make a big deal about them; it simply lets you catch them and move on.

Watching it with my son really solidified my feelings about the film. I could point out where it could have done more, where it played it safe, or where it could have slowed down for a moment. But that’s not what he experienced; he was just having a great time. And at the end of the day, that’s what this movie is meant to do.

I ended up rating it around an 8.5, maybe an 8 if I’m being a bit tougher on it. Not because it does anything groundbreaking, but because it accomplishes exactly what it sets out to do without getting in its own way.

It’s a Mario movie that actually feels like Mario.

Surprisingly, that’s still harder to achieve than it should be.

For more of my thoughts and my son’s perspective, feel free to watch the podcast where we discuss the movie.

THE SUPER MARIO GALAXY MOVIE – APRIL 1, 2026
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The Super Mario Galaxy Movie is an animated film based on the world of Super Mario Bros., and follows The Super Mario Bros. Movie, which was released in 2023 and earned more than $1.3 billion worldwide. Both the 2023 film and The Super Mario Galaxy Movie are produced by Chris Meledandri of Illumination and Shigeru Miyamoto of Nintendo.

The film will be co-financed by Universal Pictures and Nintendo and will be released worldwide by Universal Pictures.

The post The Super Mario Galaxy Movie – review first appeared on the Disney Driven Life.

Dive into the premiere of the highly anticipated Handmaid’s Tale spinoff, The Testaments, laugh along with Malcolm in the Middle’s long-awaited return, and catch Nikki Glaser’s “hularious” new stand-up special, Good Girl.

What else is new on Hulu? Here’s everything you’ll want to stream this month.

Sign up for Hulu

New Shows on Hulu

The Testaments

The Handmaid’s Tale may be over, but Gilead’s story isn’t. The Testaments follows a new generation inside the regime, where one young woman begins uncovering the truth and reveals a connection from her past to the infamous Gilead rebel June Osborne, forcing her to question everything she’s been taught about Gilead.

The Handmaid’s Tale spinoff premieres Wednesday, April 8, exclusively on Hulu and Disney+.

Watch: The Testaments

Malcolm in the Middle: Life’s Still Unfair

If you grew up watching Malcolm break the fourth wall, this one’s for you. The Malcolm in the Middle revival brings the iconic Wilkerson family back together, revisiting the relatable dysfunction that made the original series a generation-defining hit.

The revival premieres Friday, April 10, exclusively on Hulu and Disney+. Until then, revisit all seven seasons of Malcolm in the Middle, streaming now.

WWE LFG (S2)

The competition is back and bigger than ever. WWE LFG returns for Season 2, following the next generation of WWE hopefuls as they train, compete, and fight for their shot at superstardom. With higher stakes and tougher challenges, the road to the ring isn’t getting any easier. Stream Season 2 when it comes to Hulu on Tuesday, April 9.

Looking to catch even more WWE action? ESPN Unlimited is the new home for WWE Premium Live Events. Check out our streaming guide to learn more.

New Movies on Hulu

Pizza Movie (2026)

Serving up something fresh, Pizza Movie is a Hulu Original starring Gaten Matarazzo that turns a simple pizza run into a wild ride. When a group of college students — very under the influence — head downstairs to grab their delivery, their quick trip spirals into a mind-bending, unexpected journey.

Stream Pizza Movie on Hulu starting Friday, April 3.

Watch: Pizza Movie

Big Daddy

Adam Sandler fans, this one’s for you. Big Daddy is coming to Hulu on Wednesday, April 1, bringing iconic laughs and heartfelt moments.

Looking for more? Explore Hulu’s guide to Adam Sandler movies.

Watch: Big Daddy

Hunger Games Movies

May the odds be ever in your favor. From the first Hunger Games to the return to Panem, you can stream The Hunger Games (2012), The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013), The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part I (2014), The Hunger Games: Mockingjay, Part 2 (2015), and The Hunger Games: The Battle of Songbirds & Snakes (2023) when the collection returns to Hulu on Tuesday, April 14.

Check out the Hulu Guide to The Hunger Games to learn more about streaming the movies in order.

Watch: The Hunger Games

Surviving My Father: The Rachel Jeffs Story (2025)

A powerful true story comes to light in Surviving My Father: The Rachel Jeffs Story, streaming on Hulu beginning Thursday, April 30. The documentary follows Rachel Jeffs as she shares her experience growing up in the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS) under her father, Warren Jeffs, and her journey to break free.

For more stories like this, explore Hulu’s guide to true crime documentaries.

No Other Choice (2025)

No easy answers. No way back. No Other Choice drops an unemployed family man into a high-stakes situation where every decision comes at a cost and the consequences are impossible to outrun.

Watch No Other Choice when it comes to Hulu on Friday, April 24, and discover more Korean titles streaming now.

New Stand Up Comedy on Hulu

Nikki Glaser: Good Girl (2026)

No topic is off limits in the new Hulu Original stand-up special Nikki Glaser: Good Girl streaming Friday, April 24. Glaser’s fifth special brings her signature unfiltered humor to the stage with bold takes, brutally honest observations, and zero holding back.

Discover more ‘Hularious’ stand-up specials streaming now.

Live TV Events Streaming April 2026

March Madness®

March Madness® continues into April — don’t miss a moment of the 2026 NCAA® basketball tournaments, streaming live through the NCAA® championship games with a Hulu + Live TV subscription.*

Watch March Madness on Hulu

*Live TV plan required to watch live content on Hulu. Regional restrictions, blackouts, and additional terms apply.

NBA

The NBA season is full steam ahead — and you can have a courtside seat at home. Keep up with NBA games in real time with Hulu + Live TV.*

Watch NBA Games Live

*Live TV plan required to watch live content on Hulu. Regional restrictions, blackouts, and additional terms apply.

NHL

Hockey is in-season with more Zamboni-slicked, buzzer-beating moments. And with Hulu-exclusive games and Hulu + Live TV,* you don’t have to miss a single slapshot. Take a look at Hulu’s NHL guide to learn more.

Watch NHL Games Live

*Live TV plan required to watch live content on Hulu. Regional restrictions, blackouts, and additional terms apply.

PGA

The PGA Tour brings world-class golf action all season long. With a Hulu + Live TV subscription, you can stream pro golf tournaments live on ESPN+, CBS,* NBC,* ESPN,* USA Network,* and the Golf Channel.*

Watch the PGA Tour Live*

*A Live TV plan is required to watch live content on Hulu. Regional restrictions, blackouts, and additional terms apply. 

New Hulu Releases: April 2026 (Full Schedule)

Wednesday, April 1

Dear Killer Nannies: Complete Season 1
Atomic: Complete Season 1
Fire Force: Complete Season 3 Pt. 2 (DUBBED)
Jack & Bobby: Complete Season 1
Matthew Beem Creator Essentials: Complete Season 1
Topper Guild Creator Essentials: Complete Season 1
That’s Amazing Creator Essentials: Complete Season 1
Secrets of the Bees: Complete Limited Series
The Beekeeper (2024)
Big Daddy (1999)
Big Daddy en Español (1999)
The Croods (2013)
The Croods en Español (2013)
The Day After Tomorrow (2004)
50 First Dates (2004)
50 First Dates en Español (2004)
Date Night (2010)
The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
Harold & Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay (2008)
The Heat (2013)
In Time (2011)
Micki & Maude (1984)
Micki & Maude en Español (1984)
Mo’ Money (1992)
Mo’ Money en Español (1992)
Monster House (2006)
Monster House en Español (2006)
Moon (2009)
Moon en Español (2009)
Murphy’s Romance (1985)
Murphy’s Romance en Español (1985)
My Life (1993)
My Life en Español (1993)
Napoleon Dynamite (2004)
Neighbors (1981)
Night at the Museum (2006)
Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian (2009)
Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb (2014)
Not Another Teen Movie (2001)
Not Another Teen Movie en Español (2001)
Pacific Rim: Uprising (2018)
Pacific Rim: Uprising en Español (2018)
Pretendiendo (2025)
Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion (1997)
Shark Tale (2004)
Shark Tale en Español (2004)
Shrek (2001)
Shrek en Español (2001)
Shrek 2 (2004)
Shrek 2 en Español (2004)
Shrek the Third (2007)
Shrek the Third en Español (2007)
Shrek Forever After (2010)
Shrek Forever After en Español (2010)
The Sitter (2011)
Sobriedad me Estas Matando (2025)
Toni Erdmann (2016)
Toni Erdmann en Español (2016)
21 Jump Street (2012)
21 Jump Street en Español (2012)
22 Jump Street (2014)
22 Jump Street en Español (2014)
A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas (2011)

Thursday, April 3

Pizza Movie: Film Premiere

Friday, April 4

Primitive War (2025)

Saturday, April 5

The Boogeyman (2023)

Sunday, April 6

Sirat (2025)

Monday, April 7

Bad Boys: Ride or Die (2024)
Bad Boys: Ride or Die en Espanol (2024)

Tuesday, April 8

The Testaments: Three-Episode Series Premiere

Wednesday, April 9

Married at First Sight: Complete Season 7
Secrets of Celebrity Sex Tapes: Complete Season 1
WWE LFG: Complete Season 2
The Floor: Season 5 Premiere
Pets on a Train (2025)

Thursday, April 10

Malcolm in the Middle: Life’s Still Unfair: Complete Season 1
Perfect Crown: Series Premiere
Finnick (2022)

Sunday, April 13

Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero (2022) (SUBBED & DUBBED)

Monday, April 14

#SKYKING: Documentary Premiere
The 1% Club: Season 2 Premiere
The Quiz With Balls: Season 3 Premiere
The Hunger Games (2012)
The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013)
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 (2014)
The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2 (2015)
The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes (2023)

Tuesday, April 15

Blippi Wonders: Complete Seasons 2-3

Wednesday, April 16

Court Cam: Complete Season 8
MasterChef: Season 16 Premiere
My Strange Arrest: Complete Season 3
Forged in Fire: Complete Season 10
Last Christmas (2019)
Last Christmas en Español (2019)

Thursday, April 17

Innate: Complete Season 1 (SUBBED & DUBBED)
Shelby Oaks (2024)

Tuesday, April 22

Farmer Wants a Wife: Season 4 Premiere

Wednesday, April 23

Live PD: Police Patrol: Complete Season 8

Thursday, April 24

Nikki Glaser: Good Girl: Special Premiere
No Other Choice (2025)

Friday, April 25

Good Boy (2025)

Saturday, April 26

Daddio (2023)
Daddio En Español (2023)

Tuesday, April 29

Silent Night (2023)

Wednesday, April 30

Family Lockup: Complete Season 1
The First 48: Complete Season 28
The UnXplained: Complete Season 7
Harold and the Purple Crayon (2024)
Harold and the Purple Crayon en Español (2024)
A Haunting in Venice (2023)
Monster in the Family: The Stacey Kananen Story (2025)
Surviving My Father: The Rachel Jeffs Story (2025)

The post What’s New on Hulu: April 2026 first appeared on the Disney Driven Life.

Wednesday, April 1

Dear Killer Nannies (Hulu Original) – Premiere – All Episodes Streaming
Juampi, Pablo Escobar’s son, has an atypical childhood and lives surrounded by hitmen who work as his nannies. He idealizes his father, considering him a benefactor, but as he grows up, he learns that his father is, in fact, a criminal. Over the years, he will have to face the burden of his surname and decide whether he wants to continue the family legacy or start a new life from scratch.

Donna Hay Coastal Celebrations (Disney+ Original) – Premiere – All Episodes Streaming
Best-selling Australian cookbook author, Donna Hay hosts a series of sunny celebrations by the sea, where she styles and cooks delicious food in beautiful locations. With Sydney’s harbour as the backdrop, Donna uses fresh produce to create simple and stunning food.

O11CE: New Generation (Disney+ Original) – New Episodes
After six years of success in European soccer, Gabo, Dedé, and Ricky decide to visit IAD, the Academic Sports Institute, which saw them grow up, and surprise them. But they are the ones who get the surprise: the IAD is not as it used to be and the Golden Hawks, the soccer team they were part of, is aimless, unmotivated, and on the verge of being relegates. Now they must restore the IAD’s glory and the pride of being an Hawk: a new chapter begins, full of passion and plenty of soccer!

Secrets of the Bees – Premiere – All Episodes Streaming
National Geographic Explorer Bertie Gregory explores the extraordinary lives of bees, which are among the planet’s most important animals. Over three years, special cameras opened a rare window into a single hive, revealing its hidden world. With more than 20,000 bee species pollinating one-third of the world’s food, this series uncovers their astonishing architecture and intelligence, unlocking their secrets.

Saturday, April 4

Locker Diaries: ZOMBIES: Shorts – New Episode
Glimpse the drama happening in the school hallways of Shadyside & Sunnyside and discover the secret adventures that unfold.

Sunday, April 5

Inside Out Classic – the real-time, animated NHL game: Washington Capitals vs. New York Rangers (Disney+, ESPN+) – Live at 7pm ET
ESPN, Disney, Pixar and the National Hockey League (NHL®) are teaming up to bring fans Inside Out Classic, a real-time, animated NHL telecast featuring the Washington Capitals vs. New York Rangers on Sunday, April 5 at 7 p.m. ET.

Monday, April 6

American Idol (Season 9) (ABC) – Streaming live at 8/7c
“American Idol,” the iconic series that revolutionized the television landscape by pioneering the music competition genre. Helping determine who America will ultimately vote to become the next singing sensation is music industry forces and superstar judges Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie, and Emmy® Award-winning host and producer Ryan Seacrest hosts the beloved competition series. “American Idol” airs live Mondays at 8:00 p.m. on ABC, streams next day on Disney+ and Hulu, and beginning March 30 will also stream live on Disney+ in addition to ABC in local time zones.

In Your Radiant Season (Hulu Original) – Season Finale
Chan lives every day like it is summer vacation. Haran is trapped in a lonely winter. When their forgotten past reunites them, Chan is determined to gift her another spring. Through laughter and tears, they face winter together and reach their spring in this heartwarming romance.

Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord (Disney+ Original) – Two-Episode Premiere
Set after the events of “The Clone Wars,” Maul plots to rebuild his criminal syndicate on a planet untouched by the Empire. There, he crosses paths with a disillusioned young Jedi Padawan, who could be the apprentice he is seeking, that will aid him in his relentless pursuit for revenge.

Tuesday, April 7

Daredevil: Born Again (Season 2) (Disney+ Original) – New Episode at 6pm PT
In Season 2, Mayor Wilson Fisk crushes New York City underfoot as he hunts down public enemy number one, the Hell’s Kitchen vigilante known as Daredevil. But beneath the horned mask, Matt Murdock will try to fight back from the shadows to tear down the Kingpin’s corrupt empire and redeem his home. Resist. Rebel. Rebuild.

Wednesday, April 8

Hey A.J.! – New Episodes
Inspired by children’s book author and former Super Bowl champion Martellus Bennett, “Hey A.J.!” is a whimsical and music-filled family comedy about an imaginative young girl who, along with her stuffed bunny sidekick, uses her big imagination to make ordinary life moments extraordinary.

How Not to Draw: Shorts (Season 5) – New Episode

O11CE: New Generation (Disney+ Original) – New Episodes
After six years of success in European soccer, Gabo, Dedé, and Ricky decide to visit IAD, the Academic Sports Institute, which saw them grow up, and surprise them. But they are the ones who get the surprise: the IAD is not as it used to be and the Golden Hawks, the soccer team they were part of, is aimless, unmotivated, and on the verge of being relegates. Now they must restore the IAD’s glory and the pride of being an Hawk: a new chapter begins, full of passion and plenty of soccer!

Friday, April 10

RoboGobo (Season 2) – New Episodes
In season two of this comedy-action series for preschoolers, Team RoboGobo – Hopper, Booster, Allie, Shelly and Wingo who were adopted by kid inventor Dax – learn that their super-powered Robo-Suits can now transform into Robo-Vehicles to help them save the day.

Perfect Crown (Hulu Original) – Premiere
In 21st-century Korea under a constitutional monarchy, a chaebol heiress with everything but status tries to take control of her future after crossing paths with a lonely prince with nothing but his title. Together, bound by a contract marriage, they begin a class-defying romance to rewrite destiny.

Saturday, April 11

Locker Diaries: ZOMBIES: Shorts – New Episode
Glimpse the drama happening in the school hallways of Shadyside & Sunnyside and discover the secret adventures that unfold.

Perfect Crown (Hulu Original) – New Episode
In 21st-century Korea under a constitutional monarchy, a chaebol heiress with everything but status tries to take control of her future after crossing paths with a lonely prince with nothing but his title. Together, bound by a contract marriage, they begin a class-defying romance to rewrite destiny.

Monday, April 13

American Idol (Season 9) (ABC) – Streaming live at 8/7c
“American Idol,” the iconic series that revolutionized the television landscape by pioneering the music competition genre. Helping determine who America will ultimately vote to become the next singing sensation is music industry forces and superstar judges Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie, and Emmy® Award-winning host and producer Ryan Seacrest hosts the beloved competition series. “American Idol” airs live Mondays at 8:00 p.m. on ABC, streams next day on Disney+ and Hulu, and beginning March 30 will also stream live on Disney+ in addition to ABC in local time zones.

Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord (Disney+ Original) – New Episodes
Set after the events of “The Clone Wars,” Maul plots to rebuild his criminal syndicate on a planet untouched by the Empire. There, he crosses paths with a disillusioned young Jedi Padawan, who could be the apprentice he is seeking, that will aid him in his relentless pursuit for revenge.

Tuesday, April 14

Daredevil: Born Again (Season 2) (Disney+ Original) – New Episode at 6pm PT
In Season 2, Mayor Wilson Fisk crushes New York City underfoot as he hunts down public enemy number one, the Hell’s Kitchen vigilante known as Daredevil. But beneath the horned mask, Matt Murdock will try to fight back from the shadows to tear down the Kingpin’s corrupt empire and redeem his home. Resist. Rebel. Rebuild.

Meet Iron Man and his Awesome Friends (Season 1) – New Episodes
Join young genius inventor Tony Stark (Iron Man) and his team of heroic friends as they embark on thrilling adventures, using their tech, teamwork, and quick thinking to save the day!

Wednesday, April 15

O11CE: New Generation (Disney+ Original) – New Episodes
After six years of success in European soccer, Gabo, Dedé, and Ricky decide to visit IAD, the Academic Sports Institute, which saw them grow up, and surprise them. But they are the ones who get the surprise: the IAD is not as it used to be and the Golden Hawks, the soccer team they were part of, is aimless, unmotivated, and on the verge of being relegates. Now they must restore the IAD’s glory and the pride of being an Hawk: a new chapter begins, full of passion and plenty of soccer!

Spider-Man: No Way Home – Premiere

Friday, April 17

Little Margo Stories: Shorts – Premiere
“Little Margo Stories” explores curiosity, kindness and the wonder of the natural world through the eyes of its young protagonist, Margo – a curious little mole who discovers the everyday wonders of the natural world.

Perfect Crown (Hulu Original) – New Episode
In 21st-century Korea under a constitutional monarchy, a chaebol heiress with everything but status tries to take control of her future after crossing paths with a lonely prince with nothing but his title. Together, bound by a contract marriage, they begin a class-defying romance to rewrite destiny.

Saturday, April 18

Locker Diaries: ZOMBIES: Shorts – New Episode
Glimpse the drama happening in the school hallways of Shadyside & Sunnyside and discover the secret adventures that unfold.

Perfect Crown (Hulu Original) – New Episode
In 21st-century Korea under a constitutional monarchy, a chaebol heiress with everything but status tries to take control of her future after crossing paths with a lonely prince with nothing but his title. Together, bound by a contract marriage, they begin a class-defying romance to rewrite destiny.

Monday, April 20

American Idol (Season 9) (ABC) – Streaming live at 8/7c
“American Idol,” the iconic series that revolutionized the television landscape by pioneering the music competition genre. Helping determine who America will ultimately vote to become the next singing sensation is music industry forces and superstar judges Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie, and Emmy® Award-winning host and producer Ryan Seacrest hosts the beloved competition series. “American Idol” airs live Mondays at 8:00 p.m. on ABC, streams next day on Disney+ and Hulu, and beginning March 30 will also stream live on Disney+ in addition to ABC in local time zones.

Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord (Disney+ Original) – New Episodes
Set after the events of “The Clone Wars,” Maul plots to rebuild his criminal syndicate on a planet untouched by the Empire. There, he crosses paths with a disillusioned young Jedi Padawan, who could be the apprentice he is seeking, that will aid him in his relentless pursuit for revenge.

Tuesday, April 21

Daredevil: Born Again (Season 2) (Disney+ Original) – New Episode at 6pm PT
In Season 2, Mayor Wilson Fisk crushes New York City underfoot as he hunts down public enemy number one, the Hell’s Kitchen vigilante known as Daredevil. But beneath the horned mask, Matt Murdock will try to fight back from the shadows to tear down the Kingpin’s corrupt empire and redeem his home. Resist. Rebel. Rebuild.

Wednesday, April 22

Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+ – New Episodes
“Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+,” a continuation of the beloved Emmy Award-winning original series, welcomes the next generation of preschoolers and their families to the clubhouse for all-new, plussed-up adventures with Mickey, Minnie and their pals.

O11CE: New Generation (Disney+ Original) – New Episodes
After six years of success in European soccer, Gabo, Dedé, and Ricky decide to visit IAD, the Academic Sports Institute, which saw them grow up, and surprise them. But they are the ones who get the surprise: the IAD is not as it used to be and the Golden Hawks, the soccer team they were part of, is aimless, unmotivated, and on the verge of being relegates. Now they must restore the IAD’s glory and the pride of being an Hawk: a new chapter begins, full of passion and plenty of soccer!

Orangutan (Disney+ Original) – Premiere
High in the treetops of Southeast Asia lives a magnificent and mysterious community filled with playful personalities. Narrated by Josh Gad, Disneynature’s “Orangutan” takes viewers into the world’s most majestic rainforest canopy to meet Indah, an inquisitive adolescent orangutan learning how to navigate life as she prepares to leave her family and venture out on her own for the first time. “Orangutan” is directed by Mark Linfield, co-directed by Vanessa Berlowitz, and produced by Linfield, Berlowitz, and Roy Conli, with original music by Nitin Sawhney. Featuring exhilarating action, heartwarming encounters, and a close-up look at a stunning jungle teeming with wildlife, the all-new original film releases on Earth Day, April 22, 2026, exclusively on Disney+.

Friday, April 24

The Prep School Disappearance

Perfect Crown (Hulu Original) – New Episode
In 21st-century Korea under a constitutional monarchy, a chaebol heiress with everything but status tries to take control of her future after crossing paths with a lonely prince with nothing but his title. Together, bound by a contract marriage, they begin a class-defying romance to rewrite destiny.

Saturday, April 25

Banana Ball: Party Animals vs. Bananas (ESPN Unlimited, Disney+) – Live at 7pm ET

Perfect Crown (Hulu Original) – New Episode
In 21st-century Korea under a constitutional monarchy, a chaebol heiress with everything but status tries to take control of her future after crossing paths with a lonely prince with nothing but his title. Together, bound by a contract marriage, they begin a class-defying romance to rewrite destiny.

Monday, April 27

American Idol (Season 9) (ABC) – Streaming live at 8/7c
“American Idol,” the iconic series that revolutionized the television landscape by pioneering the music competition genre. Helping determine who America will ultimately vote to become the next singing sensation is music industry forces and superstar judges Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie, and Emmy® Award-winning host and producer Ryan Seacrest hosts the beloved competition series. “American Idol” airs live Mondays at 8:00 p.m. on ABC, streams next day on Disney+ and Hulu, and beginning March 30 will also stream live on Disney+ in addition to ABC in local time zones.

Star Wars: Maul – Shadow Lord (Disney+ Original) – New Episodes
Set after the events of “The Clone Wars,” Maul plots to rebuild his criminal syndicate on a planet untouched by the Empire. There, he crosses paths with a disillusioned young Jedi Padawan, who could be the apprentice he is seeking, that will aid him in his relentless pursuit for revenge.

Disney Animation’s “Songs in Sign Language” (Disney+ Original) – Premiere
In celebration of National Deaf History Month, Disney+ will proudly debut Disney Animation’s “Songs in Sign Language,” three animated musical sequences from recent Walt Disney Animation Studios features, newly reimagined and animated in American Sign Language (ASL). Directed by veteran Disney animator/director Hyrum Osmond, the featured songs are “The Next Right Thing” (from Frozen 2), “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” (from Encanto) and “Beyond” (from Moana 2). Osmond, along with producers Heather Blodget and Christina Chen, worked in collaboration with DJ Kurs (artistic director) and the team at Los Angeles’ Tony Award-winning Deaf West Theatre to create the new versions of these beloved songs. A special behind-the-scenes featurette will accompany the songs, taking viewers into the collaboration that made these reimagined songs possible.

Tuesday, April 28

Daredevil: Born Again (Season 2) (Disney+ Original) – New Episode at 6pm PT
In Season 2, Mayor Wilson Fisk crushes New York City underfoot as he hunts down public enemy number one, the Hell’s Kitchen vigilante known as Daredevil. But beneath the horned mask, Matt Murdock will try to fight back from the shadows to tear down the Kingpin’s corrupt empire and redeem his home. Resist. Rebel. Rebuild.

Wednesday, April 29

O11CE: New Generation (Disney+ Original) – New Episodes
After six years of success in European soccer, Gabo, Dedé, and Ricky decide to visit IAD, the Academic Sports Institute, which saw them grow up, and surprise them. But they are the ones who get the surprise: the IAD is not as it used to be and the Golden Hawks, the soccer team they were part of, is aimless, unmotivated, and on the verge of being relegates. Now they must restore the IAD’s glory and the pride of being an Hawk: a new chapter begins, full of passion and plenty of soccer!

SuperKitties (Season 3) – New Episodes
Season three of the hit Disney Jr. series introduces a “Su-Purr Wild” story arc that finds the SuperKitties traveling into the Kittydale Wild Jungle to adventure with their wildcat friend Willa and new jungle critters.

Thursday, April 30

Project Runway All Stars (Seasons 5-7)

Companion Video Podcasts

Companion video podcasts are now streaming, designed to deepen fans’ connections to their favorite TV shows and keep them engaged between episodes. The video podcasts will feature hosted conversations with the creatives and casts as they recap each episode, share behind-the-scenes anecdotes and give fans a deeper dive into the storylines, characters and series itself.

• American Idol Official Podcast – New episodes drop weekly on Wednesdays, following the live show on Mondays
• Daredevil: Born Again Official Podcast – New episodes drop weekly on Tuesdays, timed to the release of each new series episode

Streams

A new Stream launches this month, offering Premium subscribers carefully curated, continuous programming.

​​​​​​Hannah Montana
Now Streaming
Disney+ is celebrating the 20th anniversary of Hannah Montana with a marathon featuring all four seasons of Hannah Montana, Hannah Montana: The Movie, and Hannah Montana and Miley Cyrus: The Best of Both Worlds Concert.

​​​​​​​​​​​​Malcolm in the Middle
Now Streaming
The chaos is back. In anticipation of the four-episode revival Malcolm in the Middle: Life’s Still Unfair debuting on Hulu in April, the Malcolm in the Middle Stream brings a wild ride through all seven seasons of the original comedy.

​​​​​​Ice Age
Launches April 1
The Ice Age Stream delivers a prehistoric adventure across some of the best films and series from the franchise with the coolest herd around! It’s an always-on marathon, perfect for the whole pack.

Once Upon a Time
Launches April 23
Disney+ will add a brand new Once Upon a Time Stream, taking Premium subscribers to the heart of Storybrooke for an enchanting journey through all seven seasons of the Once Upon a Time series.

Animated Classics
Launches April 29
The Animated Classics Stream returns with a timeless collection of beloved animated classics. From The Lion King to Mulan, and many more favorites in between, this curated lineup highlights the stories and songs that have shaped generations.

The post Disney+: What to Watch in April 2026 first appeared on the Disney Driven Life.

FORGOTTEN ISLAND – IN THEATERS SEPTEMBER 25

Official Website | Facebook | X | Instagram | TikTok | Threads | YouTube

Your best friendship is worth fighting for.

DreamWorks Animation, the studio that brought you unforgettable bonds between a boy and a dragon in How to Train Your Dragon, an ogre and a donkey in Shrek, and a robot and a gosling in The Wild Robot, now welcomes a dazzling and emotional story about two lifelong best friends who must come together before they drift apart in Forgotten Island.

The new original film is written and directed by Academy Award® nominee Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado and is produced by Academy Award® nominee Mark Swift, the filmmaking team behind Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.

Grammy and Academy Award® winning supernova H.E.R. and Liza Soberano (Lisa Frankenstein, Alone/Together) star as high school graduates Jo and Raissa, who have been best friends since grade school but are now about to embark on separate life paths.

While celebrating their last night together, Jo and Raissa stumble upon a mysterious portal that transports them to the fantastical island of Nakali, packed with magical and mythological creatures they grew up hearing stories about from their Filipino families.

Some of these figures will become friends, some foes. Joined by well-meaning-but- hapless weredog Raww (Dave Franco) and a small-but-mighty pack of pals, Jo and Raissa must face The Dreaded Manananggal (Tony winning icon Lea Salonga), the most feared creature on the island. When they discover that the memories of their entire friendship are the price for returning home, Jo and Raissa will race to find a way to leave the island before they forget each other forever.

The film’s all-star voice cast also includes Emmy nominee Jenny Slate (Marcel the Shell with Shoes On, Dying for Sex), Manny Jacinto (The Good Place, Top Gun: Maverick), BAFTA nominee Dolly de Leon (Triangle of Sadness, Ghostlight), global comedy superstar Jo Koy (Haunted Mansion, Jo Koy: Live from Brooklyn) and Emmy winner Ronny Chieng (The Daily Show, M3GAN).

DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island is distributed by Universal Pictures.

The post FORGOTTEN ISLAND – 1st Look first appeared on the Disney Driven Life.

disclosure: I have been provided with free tickets for YOU, ME & TUSCANY  in order to facilitate this promotion. No other compensation has been provided. All opinions are my own.

She came for the pasta, and got lost in the sauce!  Universal Pictures presents Halle Bailey and Regé-Jean Page in YOU, ME & TUSCANY (rated pg-13). Here is your chance to see this fun film before it opens in theaters on April 10, 2026.  An advance screening for YOU, ME & TUSCANY will be taking place at AMC Altamonte on Tuesday, April 7th @ 7:00 pm and we have 10(ten) admit-two unique codes(redeemable on GOFOBO) to give away! You & a guest could see YOU, ME & TUSCANY before the release date of 4/10/26. These passes are first come, first serve for admission.

So what are you waiting for? Hurry and enter our giveaway! Giveaway runs until 11:59pm April 2, 2026. Full rules for our giveaways can be found here.

Rated PG-13 for some strong language, and sexual material.

YOU, ME & TUSCANY – Advance Screening

YOU, ME & TUSCANY – IN THEATERS APRIL 10, 2026

Official Website | Facebook | X | Instagram | TikTok | Threads | YouTube | #YouMeTuscany

Sometimes the wrong place is right where you need to be.

From Will Packer, the blockbuster producer of Girls Trip, the Ride Along franchise, and ten movies that have opened No. 1 at the U.S. box office—including Night School, This Christmas and Think Like a Man—comes a delicious romantic comedy about one little lie, one large Italian villa, and two people getting lost in the sauce of love.

Halle Bailey (The Little Mermaid, The Color Purple) stars as Anna, a young woman who has abandoned her dreams of becoming a chef and is now drifting through her twenties with a series of bad choices. When Anna loses her house-sitting job (and housing) in one fell swoop, a chance encounter with Matteo—a handsome Italian who happens to have a villa sitting empty in Tuscany—will inspire her to jet off for Italy, against the advice of her always-honest bestie, Claire (Home Before Dark’s Aziza Scott).

But Anna’s plan to crash at Matteo’s villa, without permission, just for one night, falls apart when Matteo’s mother, Gabriella (Italian film icon Isabella Ferrari) shows up at the house unexpectedly. In a panic, Anna allows Gabriella to believe that she is Matteo’s fiancée.

That little lie becomes a big problem, though, when Matteo’s cousin, Michael (Regé-Jean Page; Bridgerton, Black Bag) shows up, and Anna discovers that the heat between them may ignite a fire that will transform her life.

The film’s international cast includes Lorenzo de Moor (The Legend Hunters) as Matteo, Marco Calvani (The Four Seasons) as an Italian taxi driver who befriends Anna and Academy Award® nominee Nia Vardalos (My Big Fat Greek Wedding) as Anna’s house-sitting client, Mrs. Dunn.

You, Me & Tuscany is directed by acclaimed filmmaker Kat Coiro (Marry Me, Matlock), from a screenplay by Ryan Engle (Rampage, Beast), based on an original idea by Ryan Engle and Kristin Engle. The film is produced by Will Packer (Girls Trip, Ride Along films) and Johanna Byer (Point Blank, executive producer Praise This) for Will Packer Productions. The executive producers are Ryan Engle and Kristin Engle.

Rated PG-13 for some strong language, and sexual material.

The post #Orlando: YOU, ME & TUSCANY Advance Screening #GIVEAWAY first appeared on the Disney Driven Life.

FORGOTTEN ISLAND – IN THEATERS SEPTEMBER 25

Official Website | Facebook | X | Instagram | TikTok | Threads | YouTube

Your best friendship is worth fighting for.

DreamWorks Animation, the studio that brought you unforgettable bonds between a boy and a dragon in How to Train Your Dragon, an ogre and a donkey in Shrek, and a robot and a gosling in The Wild Robot, now welcomes a dazzling and emotional story about two lifelong best friends who must come together before they drift apart in Forgotten Island.

The new original film is written and directed by Academy Award® nominee Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado and is produced by Academy Award® nominee Mark Swift, the filmmaking team behind Puss in Boots: The Last Wish.

Grammy and Academy Award® winning supernova H.E.R. and Liza Soberano (Lisa Frankenstein, Alone/Together) star as high school graduates Jo and Raissa, who have been best friends since grade school but are now about to embark on separate life paths.

While celebrating their last night together, Jo and Raissa stumble upon a mysterious portal that transports them to the fantastical island of Nakali, packed with magical and mythological creatures they grew up hearing stories about from their Filipino families.

Some of these figures will become friends, some foes. Joined by well-meaning-but- hapless weredog Raww (Dave Franco) and a small-but-mighty pack of pals, Jo and Raissa must face The Dreaded Manananggal (Tony winning icon Lea Salonga), the most feared creature on the island. When they discover that the memories of their entire friendship are the price for returning home, Jo and Raissa will race to find a way to leave the island before they forget each other forever.

The film’s all-star voice cast also includes Emmy nominee Jenny Slate (Marcel the Shell with Shoes On, Dying for Sex), Manny Jacinto (The Good Place, Top Gun: Maverick), BAFTA nominee Dolly de Leon (Triangle of Sadness, Ghostlight), global comedy superstar Jo Koy (Haunted Mansion, Jo Koy: Live from Brooklyn) and Emmy winner Ronny Chieng (The Daily Show, M3GAN).

DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island is distributed by Universal Pictures.

The post FORGOTTEN ISLAND – Watch the Trailer first appeared on the Disney Driven Life.

Wilson, the Las Vegas Aces star and one of the most dominant forces in professional women’s basketball, is widely regarded as the defining player of her generation and among the greatest athletes in WNBA history. At Disney Dreamers Academy, Wilson aims to connect with students on topics including perseverance, stewardship and building a winning mindset.

Known for her breakout roles across film and television, including the 2024 Disney+ movie Descendants: The Rise of Red and the upcoming Disney+ movie Descendants: Wicked Wonderland, Baker will serve as the event’s official “DREAMbassador,” spending significant time during the multi-day event interacting with students, sharing her personal entertainment journey and participating in immersive career workshops and leadership sessions. As “DREAMbassador,” she will also play a central role in the program’s culminating celebration, where students are recognized for their growth and renewed sense of purpose.

As a rising artist and multifaceted performer, JayDon is well known for his performance in the live action version of The Lion King as the voice of young Simba, as well as Kenny Payne in the TV series The Paynes. He has built momentum by blending music, performance and online storytelling into his own dynamic personal brand and will bring that energy to Disney Dreamers Academy with a special live performance for the 100 Dreamers at their end of event celebration.

From the thousands of applications received each year from high school students across various communities and backgrounds nationwide, Disney Dreamers Academy selects 100 deserving students who share their personal stories and future career goals through heartfelt essay submissions. These Dreamers, along with a parent or guardian, are invited on an all-expenses-paid trip to Walt Disney World Resort for a transformational and fun experience filled with career workshops and meaningful mentorship opportunities, plus time to explore all four Walt Disney World theme parks and its unparallelled attractions and entertainment offerings.

The program, supported by presenting sponsors Partners Federal Credit Union and AdventHealth, along with participating sponsors such as TELETIES, Spectrum, Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company, exemplifies Disney’s continued dedication to encouraging students from diverse communities to dream boldly and pursue limitless possibilities.

Since its inception in 2008, Disney Dreamers Academy has inspired 1,800 students across the country, many of whom have gone on to become entrepreneurs, storytellers, engineers, artists, journalists and industry leaders with some returning as mentors to guide the next generation of “Dreamers.’’

For more information, visit DisneyDreamersAcademy.com. Regular updates about Disney Dreamers Academy are also available at Facebook.com/DisneyDreamersAcademy and Instagram.com/disneydreamersacademy.

The post Disney Dreamers Academy Adds Star Power first appeared on the Disney Driven Life.

The film’s strong debut on Disney+ follows in its huge theatrical pawprint. It shattered box office records, becoming the highest-grossing animated Motion Picture Association (MPA) release of all time with $1.9 billion worldwide, ranking as the eighth highest-grossing film ever and the #1 domestic release of 2025.

The sequel’s success continues the legacy of the original Zootopia, which captivated fans around the globe and won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature Film in 2017. Zootopia ranks as the #7 movie on Disney+ of all time and has been one of the most-streamed movies across all platforms in the U.S. for three out of the last six years, according to Nielsen.

The world of Zootopia has expanded beyond the screen as well. In 2023, the Shanghai Disney Resort opened the first Zootopia-themed land, introducing guests to the Mammalian Metropolis and bringing the beloved animal residents of the film to life. Its signature attraction, Zootopia: Hot Pursuit, is the highest-rated attraction at Shanghai Disneyland, with one in four guests stating they came to the park specifically for the land.

Leveraging cutting-edge technology, the park also rapidly integrated new content inspired by Zootopia 2, debuting the film’s latest Gazelle song with one of the newest Audio-Animatronics just weeks after the film’s theatrical release. Plus, guests go wild for the food too – over 4.8M Disney Zootopia Pawpsicles (480 tons of ice cream!) have been sold to date.

The animated feature has also sparked strong fan engagement across consumer products and global retail, igniting viral demand for collectibles, blind boxes, and collaborations with brands such as Pop Mart, Miniso, Tony Moly, and Uniqlo. On DisneyStore.com, the iconic Zootopia carrot pen sold out twice – once at launch and again after restocking.

Fans can jump into the action with Judy and Nick and watch every adventure in the Zootopia Collection on Disney+.

The post Zootopia 2 Roars to #1 on Disney+ first appeared on the Disney Driven Life.

“Bluey’s Best Day Ever!” brings all kinds of fun to the Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration, which honors seven decades of The Happiest Place on Earth.

“Bluey” is joining Disney Experiences as part of Disney’s global relationship with BBC Studios, with the producers of “Bluey” from Ludo Studio collaborating on special fan activations.

A Fun-filled Celebration of ‘Bluey’ Episodes

Fantasyland Theatre is transformed into the grounds of Bluey’s school, where games are played, and memories are made by everyone who comes to the fun fair at Bluey’s school. Guests can stop by and giggle, wiggle, and go full dance mode with nonstop fun during the venue’s operating hours, as high-energy musical moments segue into interactive games like Keepy Uppy, inspiring guests of all ages to participate.

Bluey and her sister Bingo appear live on stage during set times throughout the day, joining a group of comedic performers and musicians. Extra laughs, playful surprises, and a little bit of delightful chaos are added when Chattermax, Unicorse, and a troupe of Grannies join the fun on stage. Together, they bring popular games and cheeky dance moves from the series to the stage for real life, underscored by new musical arrangements of iconic songs from the animated series played live by a five-piece band.

In addition to the on-stage fun, families will find storytelling, games, and dance-alongs on the upper and lower grounds of the venue, where they can explore the real-life Fairy Garden and Gnome Village, race Barky Boats, and hop on Bluey’s helicopter stump for a pretend ride to wherever their friends need them.

Families can capture their memories with unique photo opportunities, including striking a pose with Bluey’s family car and joining in with Bluey’s school class photo.

All-new Food, Beverages, and Merchandise

A selection of new offerings inspired by “Bluey” will arrive at Troubadour Tavern and other select locations in Disneyland Park, so families can fuel the fun with tasty treats, refreshing drinks, and affordable options such as the new kids’ meal combo available for $5.99. The pizza girls baked potato, and the mud cake cold brew are two must-try items, both inspired by the episode “Pizza Girls.” The full list of menu items can be found on the Disney Parks Blog.

A souvenir beverage sipper and popcorn bucket will feature unique character designs and moments from the animated series.

A selection of “Bluey” merchandise is available for purchase now at Elias & Co. in Disney California Adventure Park and World of Disney in Downtown Disney District, and at Fantasyland Theatre Valet in Disneyland Park. Guests may find youth apparel, a collectible pin, and more. Additional merchandise will arrive at Disneyland Resort at a later date.

Family Fun and Savings at Disneyland Resort

For more than 70 years, Disneyland Resort has been a destination where families can spend time and play together. “Bluey’s Best Day Ever!” joins a slate of entertainment, attractions, and other delights for the whole family, from recent favorites like “Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!” in Disney California Adventure Park to nostalgic classics like “it’s a small world” in Disneyland Park. Guests can pick up a complimentary Family Adventure Map at select locations in Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park to help plan their day.

Families can begin planning their summer vacations with the limited-time Kids’ Summer Ticket Offer, on sale now for visits May 22 through Sept. 7, 2026. Children ages 3 through 9 can visit Disneyland Resort for $50 per child with a 1-Day, Park Hopper ticket. 2-Day and 3-Day tickets are also available, with options to add Lightning Lane Multi Pass for an additional fee.*

For guests looking to visit again and again throughout the year at a great value, Magic Key annual passes are currently available for purchase. The options include the Explore Key, which offers access to select dates during the summer. To learn about the Magic Key program, visit Disneyland.com/MagicKey.

Guests looking to spend their visit on property can save up to 25% on stays of 4 or more nights from May 22 through September 7, 2026, at a Disneyland Resort Hotel. Reservations are available now, subject to availability and restrictions.**

Guests can keep up with the latest offers at Disneyland Resort by visiting Disneyland.com/offers throughout the year.

The post Bluey’s Best Day Ever! Debuts at Disneyland Resort first appeared on the Disney Driven Life.

“Looking at our hand, it’s an extraordinary one,” D’Amaro said in a video message from Disney headquarters in Burbank, California, pointing to Disney’s blockbuster studios, a successful and growing entertainment streaming business, ESPN’s worldwide brand, and its strong Experiences business.

Looking ahead, D’Amaro said, “We will capitalize on our strengths by focusing on coming together as one Disney to deliver a more connected, personalized, and immersive experience to our consumers — wherever they are, and whenever they would like to engage with us.”

“No one else has the ability to do this at the scale, quality, and global reach that Disney can,” he said.

One of those unforgettable stories arrives this summer, with its fifth installment debuting in theaters.

Studios: To Infinity and Beyond

At the heart of Disney is storytelling, and few franchises embody that legacy more than Toy Story.

“Thirty years ago, Pixar changed moviegoing forever with the first CG-animated feature. Today, ‘To infinity and beyond’ is more than a catchphrase — it’s an instant association, no matter where you are in the world,” D’Amaro said. “These characters now live everywhere our audiences do — in homes across the globe through Disney+ and consumer products, in our hotels, in every one of our theme parks and cruise ships.”

D’Amaro pointed out that Disney is expanding the world of Toy Story with this summer’s Toy Story 5, a brand-new story that is “just as exciting, fun, and relevant as the films that came before it.”

He also shared updates on two highly anticipated films in development, announcing that the sequel to last year’s Lilo & Stitch will debut May 26, 2028, followed by Pixar’s Incredibles 3 on June 16, 2028.

Streaming: Disney’s Digital Centerpiece

D’Amaro continued his remarks on Wednesday by noting that Disney is well underway on the next season of Shōgun, which earned a record-breaking 18 Emmy Awards for its historic first season.

“These stories power our streaming business, which provides direct and continuous engagement with our consumers,” he said. “Disney+ will continue to evolve beyond a traditional streaming service to become the digital centerpiece of our company — a portal that connects our stories, experiences, games, films, and more in entirely new ways.”

He added that the company is moving quickly to bring Disney+ and Hulu into a unified experience later this year, while underscoring significant opportunities for international growth.

“We’ve been investing smartly and strategically to build this business, and in a little over a year, we’ve released seven of our most viewed international originals ever, including the International Emmy-winning Rivals and breakout hit Battle of Fates,” he said.

Sports: ESPN’s Unmatched Portfolio

D’Amaro also mentioned ESPN, calling it “an indispensable daily touchpoint for millions of sports fans.”

“Our sports portfolio is unmatched, and we continue to add key events and partners, including our recent collaborations with the NFL and MLB,” he said. “And we’ll reach new heights next year when ESPN broadcasts the Super Bowl for the very first time — something we’ll be bringing the full force of The Walt Disney Company to, in a way that only we can.”

Experiences: Always Evolving

D’Amaro then shifted to Disney’s Experiences segment.

“All around the world, we’re building new adventures and expanding capacity to welcome more families into our uniquely Disney experiences — driven by the largest capital investment plan in Disney Experiences’ history,” he said. “It’s already bringing new lands to our parks, and new parks to our world.”

That also includes growth at sea.

“We continue to expand our award-winning Disney Cruise Line fleet. I was just in Singapore for the launch of the Disney Adventure, which is our very first ship based in Asia. It is stunning, and I’m so excited for our guests to experience it,” he said. “We have five more ships on the way, and today I’m excited to announce the name of our ninth ship, the Disney Believe.”

Pushing the Envelope with Technology

“We’ve never shied away from the latest innovations — and in many cases we’re the ones pushing the envelope,” D’Amaro said. “Because we know technology acts as an amplifier for our stories, our experiences, and the emotional connection audiences have with our brand.”

As an example, he pointed to Disney’s partnership with Epic Games to bring a transformative new entertainment experience to Fortnite.

“We’ll continue to develop and embrace new technologies to empower our storytellers — but never at the expense of our characters and worlds, our creative partners, or the trust people place in us,” he said.

“It Takes People to Make the Dream a Reality”

D’Amaro also spoke about the central role of human creativity at Disney, noting a door on Main Street in Disneyland labeled “Casting Agency.”

“And the quote on the door it’s from Walt — it says, ‘It takes people to make the dream a reality.’ This couldn’t be more true for a company like ours,” he said.

We have the most creative, most passionate, dedicated people — and it’s because of our people that we’ll continue to create stories and experiences that our fans carry with them for a lifetime.

— Josh D’Amaro, CEO of The Walt Disney Company

He added that one of the most powerful expressions of Disney’s positive impact is its ongoing work with children’s hospitals, veterans, and military families, and the various community organizations the company is proud to support.

“Our stories bring joy and hope and inspiration to millions around the world, and that’s a privilege that we take very seriously,” he said.

The Road Ahead

D’Amaro concluded his remarks by thanking former CEO Bob Iger for setting a “standard for creativity, integrity, and ambition that will continue to guide all of us. We are deeply grateful for everything that he’s done.”

“As I officially step into this role with an incredible team at my side, I’m truly excited about the road ahead,” he said. “And I have absolute confidence in our ability to deliver high-quality, experiential storytelling that stands head and shoulders above the rest.”

D’Amaro then expressed his appreciation for Disney fans around the world.

“And of course, my thanks go out to all of our fans around the world. As some of you may know, I love talking to guests and fans and hearing all of your stories. Whether you love our movies, shows, parks, ships, games, books, music — the list goes on and on. You are the reason that we do what we do.”

He then closed his remarks by thanking the company’s shareholders.

“On behalf of everyone at Disney, thank you for joining us today and thank you for your continued belief and investment in this one-of-a-kind company,” he said.

The post The Josh D’Amaro Era Begins: Disney’s Next Chapter of Innovation and Magic first appeared on the Disney Driven Life.

The Pout Pout Fish starring Nick Offerman with Jordin Sparks and Amy Sedaris swims into theaters March 20, 2026!

Based on the New York Times Bestseller book, The Pout Pout Fish will be released in theaters nationwide on March 20. Featuring a star-studded voice cast including Nick Offerman, Nina Oyama, Miranda Otto, Remy Hii, with Jordin Sparks, and Amy Sedaris. The film dives into a fun-filled adventure that explores friendship, courage, and the joy of spreading happiness. The Pout Pout Fish is set to make a splash with audiences of all ages.

The Pout Pout Fish is the hilarious and heartwarming story of an unlikely duo: Mr. Fish (Offerman) a pouty introvert and Pip (Oyama) an energetic sea dragon, who embark on a daunting quest to find a legendary fish to grant their wish to save their homes.

The Pout Pout Fish is directed by Ricard Cussó and Rio Harrington and written by Elise Allen, Elie Choufany, and Dominic Morris.

TikTok: @ThePoutPoutFishMovie
Instagram: @ThePoutPoutFishMovie @vivakidsfilms
YouTube: @ThePoutPoutFishMovie @vivapictures
Facebook:@vivakidsfilms

The post The Pout Pout Fish 🐟 – New Trailer & Song first appeared on the Disney Driven Life.

Pat Summitt, the Hall of Fame women’s basketball coach who made history and inspired generations of women, is the subject of a new documentary. “Breaking Glass: The Pat Summitt Story,” from award-winning director Dawn Porter (director, “Sing Sing Chronicles”; winner of the 2025 Emmy® Award for Best Documentary) and “Good Morning America” co-anchor and executive producer Robin Roberts, is set to premiere Wednesday, March 25, on Hulu and Hulu on Disney+ for bundle subscribers, Sunday, March 29, on ESPN2 and Sunday, April 5, on ESPN.

With the intimacy of a biopic built on never-before-seen archival footage and set against the world of sports, the film profiles the extraordinary women’s college basketball coach who forever changed the game and whose boundary-breaking career impacted far beyond the court.

Featuring firsthand interviews with those who knew her best, including fellow coaches, players, family and friends, as well as rare interviews with Summitt herself, alongside Billie Jean King, Peyton Manning, Dawn Staley, Tamika Catchings and others, the film underscores how her influence extended far beyond the basketball court, shaping generations of athletes and redefining leadership in women’s sports. From her upbringing on a Tennessee dairy farm, where humble beginnings forged the toughness that defined her career, to her record-setting run at the University of Tennessee, the film chronicles both her triumphs and the profound challenges she faced, including her diagnosis with Alzheimer’s disease.

“I am grateful to Rock’n Robin Productions, Trilogy Films, Tribeca Studios, and ABC News Studios for making this happen,” said Tyler Summitt, son of Pat Summitt and co-founder of the Summitt Mindset. “Robin was one of my mom’s closest friends, and there is nobody my family trusts more to lead this project.”

“Breaking Glass: The Pat Summitt Story” is produced by Rock’n Robin Productions, Trilogy Films, and Tribeca Studios for ABC News Studios. The film is directed by Dawn Porter and produced by Clare Smith Marash for Trilogy Films. Robin Roberts and Reni Calister serve as executive producers for Rock’n Robin Productions, and Berry Welsh and Jane Rosenthal for Tribeca Studios. David Sloan is senior executive producer, and Claire Weinraub is executive producer for ABC News Studios.

The post Breaking Glass: The Pat Summitt Story To Premiere This Month first appeared on the Disney Driven Life.

Disney+ continues to expand its “Bluey” offerings with new content arriving this month and later this summer. Recently announced, “Bluey’s Big Play – The Stage Show,” a special televised version of the popular touring theatrical production, premieres March 16. Additionally, a collection of “Bluey Minisodes,” previously only available online and in Australia, will also be available for the first time on Disney+ beginning May 20. Global phenomenon “Bluey” was 2025’s #1 most-streamed program in the U.S. for the second year in a row, with 45.2 billion minutes streamed.*

“Bluey’s Big Play – The Stage Show” is a special televised version of the popular touring theatrical production, featuring live performances of fan-favorite “Bluey” characters brought to life by world-class puppeteers. “Bluey’s Big Play – The Stage Show” is an adaptation of the multiple Emmy® Award-winning animated series, with an original story by “Bluey” creator Joe Brumm and music specially composed by Joff Bush.

The special is produced by BBC Studios Kids & Family Productions in association with Ludo Studio, Andrew Kay and Windmill Theatre Co and is distributed internationally by BBC Studios, with executive producers Tom Cousins and Anna Perowne. Watch the new trailer.

It was also announced that a previously released collection of 10 “Bluey Minisodes” will be available for the first time on Disney+. The bite-sized short-form series is a collection of one- to three-minute minisodes and is produced by Ludo Studio.

The shorts highlight funny and sweet moments featuring Bluey and Bingo leaning into playful interactions and games that further explore the characters and world of “Bluey.” The collection includes: Humpty Dumpty, Green Bottles, Flying Saucer, Tea Party, Pea Pod Sausages, Old Macdonald, Honk, Lollipop Song, Cinderella, and Make Mum Laugh. All previously released “BlueyMinisodes” are currently available to stream on Disney+.

MORE “BLUEY” OFFERINGS:

BBC Studios and Walt Disney Studios, in partnership with Ludo Studio, announced that the feature-length “Bluey” movie will be released in cinemas Aug. 6, 2027.

“Bluey” is joining Disney Experiences as part of Disney’s global relationship with BBC Studios, with the producers of “Bluey,” Ludo Studio, collaborating on special fan activations.

Beginning March 22, 2026, and continuing through the year, “Bluey’s Best Day Ever!” will invite Disneyland® Park guests to a fun-filled celebration of favorite episodes of the animated series at the reimagined Fantasyland Theatre. Now transformed into a beautiful Fun Fair at Bluey’s School, Bluey and her sister Bingo appear throughout the day alongside a lively group of comedic performers and musicians, plus some very familiar friends. Together, they bring to life the unmistakable, familiar feeling that the best day ever has officially begun.

Bluey and Bingo are on their way to Disney’s Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort! Starting May 26, 2026, and staying beyond Cool KIDS’ SUMMER, you can play games and dance with Bluey and Bingo after a train trip to Conservation Station. Once you hop off the Wildlife Express Train, get ready for fun. Play special games directly from “Bluey” episodes, grab a photo with Bluey and Bingo, and even discover some of their favorite Australian animals at “Jumping Junction.”

Earlier this year, Bluey and Bingo set sail on Disney Cruise Line for greetings, dance parties, and more. Visit disneycruise.com for more details on where Bluey and Bingo are sailing in 2026.

The post More ‘Bluey’ Is Coming to Disney+ first appeared on the Disney Driven Life.

The special is produced by HopeTown Entertainment and Unwell Productions. Ashley Edens serves as showrunner, with Miley Cyrus, Tish Cyrus-Purcell, Alex Cooper, and Matt Kaplan as executive producers. Cooper will also host the special, guiding “Hannah Montana” fans through the nostalgic and highly anticipated anniversary celebration.

Fans can relive their favorite Miley moments ahead of the anniversary special with the “Hannah Montana” Collection on Disney+. They can dive even deeper with a dedicated non-stop Stream featuring all four seasons of “Hannah Montana,” “Hannah Montana: The Movie,” and “Hannah Montana and Miley Cyrus: The Best of Both Worlds Concert,” available now.

Demonstrating the franchise’s enduring popularity, the “Hannah Montana” catalog has amassed more than half a billion hours streamed globally on Disney+ to date.

Watch the Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special on Disney+ and Hulu on March 24

The post Sweet Niblets! Hannah Montana 20th Anniversary Special Official Trailer Drops first appeared on the Disney Driven Life.

“True to the continual evolution of Victoria & Albert’s, my new role as executive chef will allow me to guide the future of the restaurant alongside Chef Miguel Santeliz while also broadening my impact across the talented culinary team at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa,” said Chef Matthew Sowers.

From cook to chef de cuisine of the MICHELIN-starred restaurant, Sowers has spent more than 20 years cultivating creativity, craftsmanship, and camaraderie as the foundation of a world-class hospitality team at Victoria & Albert’s. He has dedicated many of those years to mentoring chefs to perform at the highest global standard, including Chef Miguel Santeliz, who now steps into the role of chef de cuisine.

Over his two decades at Walt Disney World, Miguel Santeliz has grown through a wide range of culinary experiences. He began as a sous chef intern in the Walt Disney World Professional Management Program, later contributing his talents at several signature restaurants, including Trattoria al Forno at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, Yachtsman Steakhouse at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Topolino’s Terrace at Disney’s Riviera Resort, and for the past three years, the acclaimed Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort.

Since 2022, Santeliz has worked closely with Chef Sowers at Victoria & Albert’s and has played an instrumental role in developing and crafting the menus for the fine‑dining restaurant Remy aboard Disney Cruise Line, collaborating with three-MICHELIN-star Chef Arnaud Lallement of L’Assiette Champenoise.

“Victoria & Albert’s has built an incredible legacy, and it’s a true honor to carry that forward,” said Chef Miguel Santeliz. “I’m humbled by the responsibility, excited to lead this talented team, and eager to keep pushing the boundaries of creativity.”

In his new role as chef de cuisine, Santeliz will lead the Victoria & Albert’s team of exceptional chefs, continuing the restaurant’s legacy of artistry and innovation.

To learn more about Victoria & Albert’s or to make reservations, please visit DisneyWorld.com. 

The post Victoria & Albert’s at Walt Disney World Continues Its Tradition of Developing and Elevating Exceptional Leadership first appeared on the Disney Driven Life.

• Opening April 8: Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin at Magic Kingdom
• Opening May 26: Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! and “The Walt Disney Studios” courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Soarin’ Across America at EPCOT.

Cool KIDS’ SUMMER Fun for the Whole Family

With the kids out of school and looking for excitement, summer is all about family fun, and guests have plenty of ways to make unforgettable memories at Walt Disney World.

Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station

Bluey and Bingo are on their way to Disney’s Animal Kingdom! Starting May 26 and staying beyond Cool KIDS’ SUMMER, guests can play games and dance with Bluey and Bingo at Conservation Station.

Once guests hop off the Wildlife Express Train, it’s time for fun. Play special games directly from “Bluey” episodes, grab a photo with Bluey and Bingo themselves, and even discover animals native to Bluey’s home country, Australia, at “Jumping Junction.”

Jessie’s Roundup: A Rip-Roarin’ Review in Magic Kingdom

A new limited-time, Toy Story–themed Cool KIDS’ SUMMER exclusive experience, Jessie’s Roundup: A Rip-Roarin’ Revue, will debut at the Diamond Horseshoe in Frontierland, featuring Jessie, Woody, Bullseye and more Toy Story pals in an energized roundup with songs, dance, games and other playful activities.

GoofyCore at EPCOT

Families can take part in GoofyCore at CommuniCore Hall, a Cool KIDS’ SUMMER special party that’s packed with music, movement and maximum silliness. The limited-time fun is filled with DJ-led dance breaks, interactive games and larger-than-life playground-style activities inviting kids to wiggle, giggle and let loose in true Goofy fashion.

Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

It’s time to Mousekedance with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in a new show coming May 26 and staying beyond Cool KIDS’ SUMMER.Inspired by Disney Jr.’s global hit series, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+, the entire family is invited to a party at the Clubhouse with Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Daisy and Pluto, filled with original songs, dance and interactive fun.

A Disney Springs Dance Party

When visiting the Marketplace on select nights, guests can break out their best dance moves during a party featuring hits from “Descendants: Wicked Wonderland” and “Camp Rock 3,” in celebration of the new original movies coming to Disney+ this summer.

Disney Friends Make a Splash at Water Parks

This summer, guests can meet Goofy in his laid-back style at Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park or catch Stitch spreading playful chaos at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park.

And for those guests preferring to splash the night away, Disney H2O Glow After Hours returns to Typhoon Lagoon on select nights from June 2 through September 5. The separately ticketed event will bring waves of excitement, with guests being able to enjoy the water park after dark, boogie on the beach and see some rare Disney characters like Powerline Max, Chip ‘n’ Dale Rescue Rangers and more.

Additional Cool KIDS’ SUMMER Perks for Resort Guests

Summer is one of the best times to visit, with some of the best ticket prices of the year and longer theme park hours, too. Combine this with everything that’s new and debuting, and it makes for the perfect trip filled with experiences that can only be found at Disney.

Early Theme Park Entry

Guests staying in Disney Resorts Collection hotels can take advantage of 30 minutes of early theme park entry each day of their stay (valid theme park admission and a park reservation, if applicable, required). And this summer, special surprises are in store for Cool KIDS’ SUMMER, including early morning character appearances across all four theme parks providing more time to interact with favorite Disney friends.

Character Appearances and More

During Cool KIDS’ SUMMER, guests staying at Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, and Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside will have even more experiences and amenities designed for families with young children, including scheduled visits from favorite Disney pals, like Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse.

• These four Disney Resort hotels will also be ready to cover little one’s needs, with complimentary essentials, including bottle warmers, infant bathtubs, diaper disposals and nightlights for guests’ use during their stay.
• Special libraries from Disney Publishing will be available at these Cool KIDS’ SUMMER resorts, featuring beloved stories from Disney Princesses to Disney Heroes. Plus, on select nights, a pajama party featuring story time and “create your own bedtime story” activities will wind down the evening before lights out.

More Excitement This Summer at Disney World

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin at Magic Kingdom

Reopening April 8 in Tomorrowland, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin invites guests to once again help save the galaxy from the evil emperor Zurg. The recharged attraction will feature new interactive targets and hand-held blasters, new lighting, sound and vibration effects, and a new Star Command support bot named Buddy to help train guests with target practice before heading out on their mission. Finally, there will be new Disney PhotoPass memories for guests featuring, for the first time, their scores and rank for all the bragging rights.

And that’s not all the fun Magic Kingdom has to offer during Cool KIDS’ SUMMER, as finishing touches are in progress at Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. The attraction will reopen with new magic and the shine and polish of an all-over refurbishment in early May.

The Mandalorian and Grogu on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run

Beginning May 22 at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, guests can join The Mandalorian and Grogu on a new mission tracking down ex-Imperial officers on an exhilarating chase while manning the Millennium Falcon. And, for the first time ever, guests can select what planets the ship visits, along with a new gameplay addition allowing the trusty engineers to communicate directly with Grogu during the mission.

The Walt Disney Studios at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

“The Walt Disney Studios” outdoor courtyard will be ready for families to see and explore on May 26.

And debuting late summer at Hollywood Studios, The Magic of Disney Animation will feature playful moments around every corner. This newly reimagined space will feature a “Drawn to Wonderland” playground, Disney friends ready to say hi in “Off the Page!”, and “Olaf Draws”, where guests of all ages will learn to draw from legendary Disney Animation artists whose pre-recorded guidance brings the class to life along with Olaf.

Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets

A revamped version of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster will come speeding into Disney’s Hollywood Studios this summer, fueled by the fun tunes of The Electric Mayhem and the high-speed hijinks of The Muppets.

Soarin’ Across America at EPCOT

In celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States, Soarin’ Across America flies into EPCOT with a brand-new voyage beginning May 26. The new offering will highlight some of the country’s natural beauty – like the Grand Canyon – as well as iconic cityscapes, accompanied by a new orchestration of the classic Soarin’ musical theme.

Ways to Save This Summer at Disney World

Walt Disney World is also launching new deals, discounts and offers for summer travel. For more information on these offers and more, visit DisneyWorld.com/SummerSave. https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/special-offers/2026-summer-offers/

4-Day, 4-Park Magic Ticket

• Price: Starting at $109 per day, plus tax (total: starting at $436, plus tax)
• Park Access: All four Walt Disney World theme parks
• Travel Window: May 26 – Oct. 3, 2026
• Usage: One theme park per day with one admission per park; Ticket must be used within 7 days of first use

Get a FREE Dining Plan for the Whole Family

• How: When purchasing a non-discounted 4-night, 4-day Walt Disney Travel Company package for your family that includes a room at select Disney Resort hotels and tickets with a Park Hopper option.
• Travel Window: Available for arrivals most nights June 28 – Oct. 3, Oct. 19 – Oct. 31 and Dec. 6 – Dec. 21, 2026.
• Booking Window: March 12 – April 30, 2026

Disney Resort Hotel Deals

• Save up to 30% on select Disney Resort Collection hotel rooms when staying five nights or more. Available for arrivals most nights July 30 – Oct. 3, 2026.
• Florida Residents can save up to 35% and Annual Passholders can save up to 40% on select Disney Resort hotel rooms when staying four nights or more. Available for arrivals most nights July 30 – Oct. 3, 2026
• FREE Water Park Access on Check-In Day

Guests staying at a Disney Resorts Collection hotel between May 26 and Sept. 8, 2026, can enjoy free admission to one of the Walt Disney World water parks on their check-in day.

Cool KIDS’ SUMMER Market Tour

To promote these seasonal offerings, Walt Disney World is launching a Cool KIDS’ SUMMER Market Tour, bringing a taste of Disney to select cities with pop-up events for the whole family.

• New York City (Times Square) — March 12
• Atlanta (Pemberton Place) — March 26
• Houston (Herman Park) — April 2

Each stop will feature oversized props, photo opportunities and giveaways highlighting Cool KIDS’ SUMMER ahead of the season.

More information about summer offerings and promotions is available at DisneyWorld.com/Summer.

The post Cool KIDS’ SUMMER Returns To Walt Disney World With New Family Experiences, Refreshed Attractions and Summer Savings first appeared on the Disney Driven Life.

From the moment guests enter through the majestic Adventure Way to the impressive brand-new World of Frozen — which recreates the kingdom of Arendelle on a life-size scale — they’ll discover an attraction inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Tangled, 14 new dining locations, an immense lake called Adventure Bay, a breathtaking nighttime spectacular, and more. That’s not to mention the new Olaf robotic character, who will be featured as part of the daily Celebration in Arendelle show.

To learn more about the resort’s exciting transformation, which will include a new world and attraction themed to The Lion King still to come, we spoke with Natacha Rafalski, Présidente of Disneyland Paris.

On Mar. 29, the resort’s second park will officially become Disney Adventure World, with World of Frozen as its centerpiece. How did you determine which Disney stories and franchises would best resonate with guests across Europe?

Our strategy was driven by two key pillars: the proven emotional power of our franchises and our ambition to introduce new stories that complemented those already featured in Disneyland Park at Disneyland Paris. We chose franchises like Frozen, Marvel, and The Lion King because they offer something for everyone, from young children and families to adult fans. While Pixar already has a beloved presence in both our parks, we recognized that Frozen and Marvel have become absolute cultural phenomena that particularly resonate with our European guests. By pairing these with The Lion King, a story that holds a unique, almost sacred place in the hearts of Europeans, we’ve created a perfectly balanced ecosystem of stories.

While Disneyland Park, our first theme park in Paris, remains the home of classic, timeless storytelling, Disney Adventure World is designed as a place where guests literally step into the stories they know and love. We wanted to move beyond watching the story to living within the familiar environments seen on screen. Whether it’s wandering the streets of Arendelle or immersing yourself in the high-tech world of the Avengers, we are inviting our guests to fully dive into the cinematic worlds they have seen on screen, providing a fresh, distinct contrast to our first park.

These stories clearly travel well beyond their original markets. What does their global appeal say about the enduring strength of Disney’s franchises?

It proves that our stories speak a universal language. Disney’s strength lies in building on themes that are foundational to the human experience: the importance of family and self-discovery in Frozen, the values of heroism and leadership in Marvel, or the responsibility and circle of life in The Lion King.

When you combine those themes with relatable characters and unforgettable music, you create a shared cultural touchstone. These stories connect people across generations and borders, creating an emotional bond that remains vibrant decades after a film’s release.

How did you bring these franchises to life in ways that felt authentic to the region and resonated with local guests?

It is a delicate balance between preserving the DNA of these universal stories and grounding them in an experience that feels authentic to our diverse guests, and weaving it into the cultural fabric of Europe. Many of the stories we tell, from Frozen and Tangled to Peter Pan, are originally based on traditional European stories. Our goal is to honor that heritage while inviting guests into the Disney version of those worlds.

We achieve this by drawing heavily from European artistic traditions. On Adventure Way, for example, we embraced an eclectic architectural style with a strong Art Nouveau aesthetic — and influential school of design that originated here in France. We also know our European guests have a unique appreciation for nature and the traditional stroll. Our landscapes bring this to life through an English-inspired Gazebo Garden and formal French-style parks, offering a more contemplative, distinctly European way to experience a theme park.

That commitment to authenticity carries through to the smallest details of craftsmanship and artistry. In The Regal View Restaurant & Lounge, for example, the decor features striking display plates from the Royal Delft manufactory in the Netherlands — authentic elements that help ground the fantasy in real‑world history. We even localize the experience through sound, collaborating with renowned French composer Philippe Rombi, who created a score for Adventure Way that brings a distinct cinematic sensibility to the land.

Finally, we think carefully about how language plays an important role in making the experience accessible and relatable. In our attractions, guests will hear characters naturally shift between French and English, ensuring the story is clear for everyone while maintaining the grand scale our guests expect. It is truly about honoring the European spirit of these tales while inviting every guest to become a part of the story.

What are some of the most exciting innovations coming to Disneyland Paris as part of this transformation?

Innovation at Disneyland Paris is about elevating every touchpoint of the guest journey, ensuring the magic feels more seamless and alive than ever before. We are particularly thrilled to introduce a next generation robotic figure of Olaf. Developed by Walt Disney Imagineering, this is a true milestone in character technology. Unlike traditional animatronic figures, this Olaf is a free roaming, untethered robotic character that can walk and move with the same whimsical and slightly bumbling gait we know from the films. He can speak and engage with his surroundings in a way that creates a level of character fidelity previously only possible on screen. Guests will be able to see him soon at both Hong Kong Disneyland and right here in Paris as part of our entertainment offerings.

Looking beyond World of Frozen, we are bringing a world first to our nighttime entertainment with the introduction of autonomous aquatic drones. These surface vehicles allow us to use the water of Adventure Bay as a dynamic and choreographed stage. By blending this cutting-edge technology with our classic storytelling, we are creating a multisensory show unlike anything seen in a Disney park before.

We are also evolving the invisible parts of the guest experience. By introducing new digital ways to order food and modernizing our retail environments with intuitive technology, we are removing friction from the day to day. Our goal is to ensure guests spend less time in line and more time immersed in the stories they love.

This transformation is part of a broader €2 billion investment in Disneyland Paris. What does that level of investment signal about Disney’s long-term commitment to the resort and to its growing presence in Europe more broadly?

This investment is a powerful vote of confidence in Disneyland Paris as the leading tourist destination in Europe. It reflects our continued evolution as a world‑class resort, designed to meet the needs of future generations of guests. By significantly expanding our footprint and diversifying our stories, we are reinforcing our commitment to the European region, ensuring that we remain the gold standard for immersive family entertainment for decades to come.

The evolution of Disney Adventure World continues beyond March 29, with a new Up–inspired attraction and an immersive world based on The Lion King still to come. How do these future developments fit into your vision?

Our vision is one of continuous growth and layered storytelling. As we evolve, we are focused on creating a balanced park experience. For instance, the new Up-inspired attraction is a charming, family-style flying carousel that serves as a perfect celebration of the film’s spirit, beautifully complementing the lush greenery and atmosphere of Adventure Way.

Looking further ahead, the upcoming immersive world of The Lion King will be a massive cornerstone for the park’s future. These developments ensure that Disney Adventure World is a place of constant discovery. A destination that grows alongside our guests, offering everything from quiet moments of family fun to epic, large-scale adventures.

The post Disney Adventure World at Disneyland Paris: An Interview with Natacha Rafalski first appeared on the Disney Driven Life.