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Disney World Guests Witness Beloved Character Struggling in Unusual Moment

Walt Disney World Resort guests recently noticed something unusual at Disney’s Pop Century Resort, sparking curiosity and debate among fans. A beloved Disney character statue appeared visibly damaged, leading to questions about its condition and Disney’s plans for repair.

Disney Character in Distress

The back of a Mickey Mouse statue at Disney's Pop Century Resort
Credit: Disney

Disney’s Pop Century Resort is known for its massive character statues, each representing a different decade in popular culture. From Mickey Mouse to Roger Rabbit, these towering icons bring the Disney magic to life and create Instagram-worthy photo opportunities for visitors. However, Walt Disney World Resort guests were recently surprised to find one character looking far from magical during their stay.

Baloo, the lovable bear from The Jungle Book (1967), stands proudly alongside his friend Mowgli in the resort’s 1960s section. While Mowgli appeared untouched, Baloo was spotted in an incomplete state, with visible patches and missing paint. The sight left guests wondering whether the bear was simply neglected or undergoing a transformation.

Fans React to Baloo’s Condition

A brightly colored and modern fast food restaurant interior, reminiscent of Disney World, featuring a curved counter with vibrant lights above, booths with square-patterned upholstery, orange and yellow seats, and a ceiling with circular designs. The counter displays a variety of menu options.
Credit: Disney

The discussion began when Redditor u/sandy_shark903 shared photos of Baloo’s current state, drawing attention to what they called a desperate need for a new coat of paint. The images showed areas where Baloo’s surface had been patched with spackle, giving him a visibly “distressed” appearance.

Baloo At Pop Century REALLY needs a new coat of paint.

Baloo At Pop Century REALLY needs a new coat of paint
byu/sandy_shark903 inWaltDisneyWorld

 

What’s Happening Behind the Scenes?

Despite initial concerns about neglect, it seems Walt Disney World Resort is already addressing the issue. According to recent guest reports, Baloo is in the middle of a repair process. Crews are using a portable lift, or cherry-picker, to smooth out the surface and prepare him for a fresh coat of paint. This approach allows Disney cast members to maintain the resort’s magic with minimal disruption to guests.

A nighttime view of the entrance to Disney's Pop Century Resort hotel at Walt Disney World Resort, featuring a colorful retro-themed sign with large, bold letters. The background displays various brightly lit decor elements from different decades, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere, with the nearby Petals Pool Bar adding to the festive ambiance.
Credit: Disney

“They were repairing them the week of Christmas, haven’t painted yet,” said Redditor u/caracs, who noticed the ongoing work during their recent stay.

Another guest, u/MetalAlbatross, confirmed: “I stayed in that building over New Year’s and they were working on him.”

Have you stayed at Disney’s Pop Century Resort? Share your memories with us in the comments. 

Jess Colopy

Jess Colopy is a Disney College Program alum and kid-at-heart. When she’s not furiously typing in a coffee shop, you can find her on the hunt for the newest Stitch pin.

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