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Disneyland Postpones Groundbreaking Walt Disney Animatronic Experience

Krysten Swensen February 15, 2025

0 1 minute read

Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse at Disneyland Park — Credit: Disney

For decades, Walt Disney’s influence has been felt in every corner of Disneyland, from the attractions to the details carefully crafted by Imagineers. Now, Disney is taking it a step further, using cutting-edge animatronic technology to bring Walt himself to life in Walt Disney: A Magical Life.

This brand-new experience will run in rotation with Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln at the Opera House on Main Street, U.S.A.

Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln in Disneyland Park — Credit: Disney

Disney’s Imagineers have worked closely with members of Walt Disney’s family to ensure the animatronic accurately captures his likeness, voice, and mannerisms. The attraction will celebrate his legacy, telling the story of his journey from a small-town dreamer to the visionary behind the world’s most beloved entertainment empire.

Why the Delay?

According to reports, Disney has chosen to push back the opening of the show to ensure every aspect of the animatronic’s performance is flawless. Given that this is the first time Disney has recreated Walt in such an immersive way, the company is taking extra precautions to guarantee that the experience lives up to fan expectations.

Walt Disney in a suit sits on a desk in front of a backdrop of maps and drawings, resembling an office setting. Behind them, a window shows a scenic view. The stage area is surrounded by an audience. — Credit: Disney

Disneyland Resort’s highly anticipated new attraction, Walt Disney: A Magical Life, has been delayed. Originally scheduled to debut on May 16, 2025, as part of Disneyland’s 70th-anniversary celebration, the animatronic show will now premiere on July 17, 2025.

While delays in theme park projects are common, this one seems more like a strategic decision than a setback. By shifting the debut to Disneyland’s exact 70th anniversary on July 17, Disney is creating an even more meaningful moment for park guests.

The timing aligns perfectly with the resort’s ongoing anniversary celebrations, which will continue through summer 2026.

Illustration of a castle adorned with banners and flags celebrating its 70th anniversary. The scene features a stone bridge, a flowing moat, and vibrant foliage, all under a pastel-colored sky. Shadows of people are visible on the bridge. — Credit: Disney

A Celebration Worth the Wait

Disneyland’s 70th-anniversary festivities promise to be nothing short of magical. Guests can look forward to the return of the Paint the Night parade, a refreshed Wondrous Journeys nighttime spectacular, limited-time food and beverage offerings, and plenty of exclusive merchandise.

Mickey and friends will also be sporting special anniversary outfits to commemorate the occasion.

Despite the delay, Walt Disney: A Magical Life remains one of the most anticipated additions to Disneyland’s lineup. With the park’s rich history of audio-animatronic innovation—from the Enchanted Tiki Room to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge — fans can expect this tribute to Walt Disney to be nothing short of extraordinary.

Are you excited to see Walt Disney brought to life through advanced animatronic technology? Will you be visiting Disneyland for its 70th anniversary? Let us know in the comments!