Disney has restored Peter Pan (1953) to one of its theme park experiences after a brief removal, reversing a change that had sparked speculation among fans.
The decision comes as Disney continues to navigate the legacy of its older films, balancing nostalgia with modern sensibilities. While Peter Pan remains one of the studio’s most cherished classics, the film has also drawn criticism in recent years for its portrayal of Native American characters, leading to content warnings and updates across various Disney properties.
A Classic Under Scrutiny
For decades, Peter Pan has been a staple of Disney’s brand, from merchandise to theme park attractions. However, its depictions of Native Americans, particularly the Never Land Tribe and the song “What Makes the Red Man Red?,” have been widely criticized for reinforcing outdated and offensive stereotypes.
In response, Disney+ added a content warning to the film, cautioning viewers about its “negative depictions and/or mistreatment of people or cultures.” The New York Times also reported that Disney has flagged characters like Captain Hook and Tinker Bell for their potential to reinforce negative stereotypes, though no formal changes have been made to their presence in the parks.
Peter Pan’s Flight—a fan-favorite ride at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World—has undergone quiet updates to remove problematic imagery. At Magic Kingdom, the Never Land Tribe scene was revised to depict Tiger Lily dancing alongside an elder tribal member, replacing the previous depiction of the tribe sitting around a campfire in a way that many found offensive. Disneyland’s version is set to receive the same updates at some point.
The ride’s modifications are part of Disney’s broader initiative to modernize its attractions. Similar updates have been made to Jungle Cruise and Splash Mountain—the latter of which has been completely rethemed into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at both U.S. resorts.
Disneyland Paris Briefly Cuts Peter Pan From Parade
Following the updates to Peter Pan’s Flight, Disneyland Paris made a more sudden change that left fans wondering if Peter Pan was being phased out even further.
Earlier this year, the Peter Pan-themed section of Disney Stars on Parade was abruptly removed, along with its corresponding musical score. The “Discover Imagination” sequence, which featured a float inspired by Skull Rock and a moon-shaped set piece where Peter Pan usually stood, was notably absent.
The removal was never officially explained by Disney, but the timing led some to speculate that it was tied to the ongoing reassessment of Peter Pan’s place in the parks.
Peter Pan Returns
Fortunately, this proved not to be the case.
Fans didn’t have to wait long for Peter Pan to return to the parade—at least in part. Just a week after its removal, Disneyland Paris reinstated the Skull Rock float, but Peter Pan’s signature moon float remained missing. Instead, Peter and Wendy Darling walked the parade route on foot, interacting with guests from the ground rather than from atop their usual set pieces.
Now, after nearly two months, Peter Pan has been fully restored to Disney Stars on Parade. According to DLP Report, Peter Pan is once again standing atop his miniature Jolly Roger, while Captain Hook has reclaimed his spot on Skull Rock.
🔧 Today we finally welcome back the full Peter Pan unit to Disney Stars on Parade, including the moon!
🔧 Today we finally welcome back the full Peter Pan unit to Disney Stars on Parade, including the moon! pic.twitter.com/433LecrGSf
— DLP Report (@DLPReport) March 1, 2025
While no explanation was ever provided for the character’s temporary disappearance, the full return of Peter Pan to the parade suggests that Disney has no plans to remove the film’s presence in the parks entirely.
A Parade Plagued by Technical Issues
The Peter Pan float isn’t the only one to have experienced disruptions. Disney Stars on Parade has faced multiple technical problems in recent years, leading to periodic removals of different sections.
When Peter Pan was first reintroduced to the parade, the Frozen (2013) float was taken out due to its own apparent mechanical issues. Similarly, the Finding Nemo (2003) float has been known to struggle, with its giant Crush figure frequently failing to perform its full range of movement.
With the Peter Pan float now back in action, fans will be watching closely to see if Disneyland Paris continues making behind-the-scenes tweaks to its daily entertainment offerings.
What do you think of Disney’s recent Peter Pan changes?
