Change is nothing new at Walt Disney World, but the resort is making it clear that even more updates are just around the corner—especially at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Despite ongoing debates about pricing and guest access, the Florida destination continues to lead as the most visited theme park resort worldwide. Disney’s strategy remains focused on growth, with new lands, refreshed attractions, and updated storytelling designed to keep visitors coming back.
Among the biggest projects currently in development are Tropical Americas at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, a Villains-themed expansion and Piston Peak National Park at Magic Kingdom, and the upcoming Monstropolis land at Hollywood Studios.
But while those additions are still on the way, Disney is also turning its attention to existing rides. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster is set to undergo one of its most dramatic changes yet, swapping its Aerosmith theme for The Muppets. The update will mark the first time the iconic characters headline a Disney thrill coaster. At the same time, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is preparing for its own major update.
Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run, which already allows guests to take control of the famous ship in an interactive mission, is getting a brand-new storyline. Riders currently work together in teams of six, taking on roles that directly impact how the mission plays out.
The attraction has always stood out for its replay value, thanks to its multiple outcomes and hands-on design. Now, Disney is taking that concept even further. The upcoming update will introduce new customization options, letting guests decide how their mission unfolds. It will also bring in Din Djarin and Grogu from The Mandalorian, connecting the ride to one of the franchise’s most successful recent series.
“We’re so excited that these updates debut on the same day as Lucasfilm’s upcoming title, The Mandalorian and Grogu; however, the attraction’s storyline will follow a different path,” Disney Parks Blog explained.
“In this new thrilling storyline, Hondo Ohnaka has gotten wind of a deal going down on Tatooine between ex-Imperial officers and a band of pirates. There’s a generous bounty for their capture, so you’ll borrow the iconic ship and team up with Mando and Grogu to track them down and explore the galaxy.”
Disney has now begun teasing the update directly. On social media, the company posted a countdown leading up to April 23, 2026, along with the phrase: “New Mission. New Stories. This Is The Way.” The message leaves little doubt about its connection to The Mandalorian, strongly hinting that the Smugglers Run update is at the center of the announcement. The new version of the ride is set to launch on May 22, 2026.
Just days later, on May 26, 2026, Hollywood Studios will debut the reimagined Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets. The change ends the attraction’s long-running Aerosmith theme and introduces a completely new experience. With two major updates arriving within a four-day span, the park is heading into one of its busiest periods in recent memory.
Construction continues on the future Monstropolis land, which will expand the park with a setting inspired by Monsters, Inc. Disney shared early details about the project during D23 Expo 2024, including plans for a groundbreaking attraction.
“The first time I saw Monsters, Inc., all I wanted to do was ride on one of those doors like Mike and Sulley,” former Disney Experiences chairman and current Disney CEO Josh D'Amaro told the crowd two years ago. “You’ll go into the factory and experience the first suspended coaster ever in a Disney park. Remember in the movie how those claws grab the doors and hoist them up into the air to take them away? We’re doing that, too. And you’re going along for the ride.”
Between upcoming lands and near-term ride updates, Disney’s Hollywood Studios is in the middle of a major evolution. And if current plans are any indication, this is only the beginning.
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