Disney’s Fake Preservation of MuppetVision 3D Sparks Outrage

by

Disney has started shooting MuppetVision 3D at Disney’s Hollywood Studios before its planned shutdown on June 7, 2025. Known internally as “A Filming Event – Archiving MuppetVision 3D!”, this project is being positioned as an effort to preserve the last attraction that Jim Henson oversaw. However, based on current information, it appears less like a tribute and more like a heartfelt send-off for the beloved attraction.

Based on updates from Disney Live Entertainment team members, the event is scheduled around mid-May and will involve registered staff as the live audience within the theater. The tentative title of this project hints that Disney might be recording the show for internal storage purposes. It’s uncertain if this footage will ever become public.

The issue at hand is that Disney isn’t doing justice to any significant aspect. The MuppetVision 3D has already been fully recorded and uploaded online by fans, with numerous high-quality versions accessible on platforms such as YouTube. Some of these videos even feature the pre-show and in-theater effects. If the company were truly committed to honoring Henson’s legacy, they would aim to preserve the entire experience – not just film a single performance before the site is demolished.

It seems this decision by Disney is more about managing their corporate image, given the reaction. They’ve announced they are “exploring creative discussions and finding ways to keep the film and related experiences alive for fans in the future,” but this announcement followed strong criticism from longtime fans who view the shutdown of MuppetVision as another blow to the creative heritage of the parks and Jim Henson’s legacy.

Essentially, MuppetVision 3D will be closed to construct a Monstropolis-themed expansion with a Monsters, Inc. door coaster, which might delight younger guests. However, this change also signifies the disappearance of an attraction that has remained unchanged for over thirty years and holds significant historical value as part of the Muppets’ legacy. Rather than renovating or moving it elsewhere, Disney seems to be choosing to abandon, congratulate themselves, and then demolish the place instead.

There are many ways Disney could have handled this differently. They could have:

  • Relocated the attraction to another park or international resort
  • Created a permanent virtual version on Disney+
  • Released a commemorative Blu-ray or collector’s edition
  • Built a new Muppets-themed experience anchored by MuppetVision
  • Not torn it down in the first place

However, contrary to expectation, nothing as described is transpiring. Instead, what seems to be unfolding is a short-term production phase. At most, this could provide Disney with an alibi when inquisitive future generations enquire about why the company dismantled Jim Henson’s final endeavor.

Don’t be fooled. This isn’t preservation. It’s a marketing maneuver.

Read More

2025-05-07 03:08