Disney World Removes Darth Vader at Hollywood Studios, Character Relocated
Poor Darth Vader. The most feared villain in the galaxy just cannot catch a break at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. He’s been moved. Again.
As of Wednesday, October 28, Vader is no longer meeting guests in the extended queue for Star Tours – The Adventures Continue. Instead, he’s back at his old spot by the stage between Star Tours and Backlot Express, right next to the AT-AT statue. If you’re keeping track at home, that’s the same spot he was at back in March. Yeah, it’s been a whole saga.
Let’s Recap the Drama
Okay, so here’s how we got here. For a long time, Darth Vader had a pretty sweet setup at the Star Wars Launch Bay, which was basically the home base for Star Wars character meets, merch, and fun interactive stuff at Hollywood Studios.
Then the Launch Bay closed, and Vader was suddenly without a home. In September 2025, he moved into the extended Star Tours queue, meeting guests in the shade of the Endor set near Tatooine Traders.
Then in March 2026, he showed up at the stage by the AT-AT statue. A lot of people, us included, thought that was his new permanent spot. Plot twist: it wasn’t. He went back to the Star Tours queue.
And now? He’s back at the stage. Again. Honestly, his moving company must be thrilled with all the business.
The Sign Is Gone
Here’s the clue that this move might be a little more serious. The “Encounter Darth Vader” sign that used to be at the entrance to his queue meet spot is gone as of October 28.
Does that mean he’s staying at the stage for good this time? Maybe. But Disney hasn’t said whether this is temporary, like back in March, or a more permanent thing. So we’re not getting too attached just yet.
Where to Find Him Right Now
If you want to meet Darth Vader, head to the stage between Star Tours and Backlot Express. Look for the giant AT-AT statue and you can’t miss it. He’s meeting guests every day at various times between 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
Fun bonus: this spot is near the former Jedi Training Academy stage. So the Sith Lord is now hanging out right where little Jedi used to train. Very on brand.
Why Did the Launch Bay Close?
If you’re wondering why Vader lost his original home in the first place, it’s because the Launch Bay building is going back to its roots. That building originally housed an animation experience, then became the Star Wars Launch Bay, and now it has been turned into The Magic of Disney Animation, where guests learn about how animated films are made.
So basically, Vader got kicked out so animation could move back in. Rude, but fair.
The Whole Area Is Changing
The relocation is happening while a huge part of Hollywood Studios is getting a makeover. The Animation Courtyard was being turned into an area inspired by The Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, California, which is now open.
There’s been new paving, fresh landscaping, new trees, and more green spaces. The old awning and wait time signs are gone, and the Little Mermaid: A Musical Adventure building got a fresh coat of paint. The area also got The Magic of Disney Animation and a new Disney Jr. show.
With that much going on, it’s not super shocking that characters keep getting shuffled around.
Tips Before You Go
Skip the Star Tours queue if you’re looking for Vader, because he’s not there anymore. Head straight to the AT-AT statue area instead. Check the My Disney Experience app for meet times, and try to go earlier in the day before the line gets long.
Stay Put, Vader
At this point, we’re just hoping Darth Vader gets to stay in one place for a while. He’s been through the Launch Bay, the Star Tours queue, the stage, back to the queue, and now back to the stage. That’s a lot of moving for one Sith Lord.
So go say hi while you know where he is. Who knows where he’ll end up next?
