The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique has long been one of the most coveted Disney Park experiences, offering children three to twelve the chance to be transformed into Disney Princesses, knights, and some of the characters from Encanto (2021). Over the years, the makeover experience has evolved, but with changes often come strong opinions — especially from Disney Parks fans. Some recent updates to the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique have reignited debate about increased inclusivity at the Disney salons.
Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is a must-do for many families visiting Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, and Disney parks worldwide, as well as the Disney Cruise Line. Young guests can choose from a variety of makeover packages that include everything from a simple pink t-shirt to deluxe gowns. However, all that is about to change.
In September, both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort announced plans for a significant overhaul of the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, set to begin in October. The new changes will streamline the available packages, making the booking process easier for Disney Park guests. Additionally, the Fairy Godmother will now make special visits during makeovers.
Weeks later, Walt Disney World Resort permanently closed the Disney PhotoPass studio for Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique visitors at the Magic Kingdom. Disney didn’t say what, if anything, would replace the space. However, reporting about the closure reignited debates about one of the most controversial changes to the royal makeover experience.
In 2022, Disney began allowing cast members of all genders to work at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. Previously, the position was reserved for women, known as the “Fairy Godmothers In Training.” Now, those working in the boutique are known as “Fairy Godmother’s Apprentices,” and they can choose costumes that reflect their personal preferences for gender expression.
Years later, the decision to make the royal salon more gender-inclusive remains the most controversial change to the experience. Some unhappy Disney Parks fans mentioned it in response to the closure of the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique Disney PhotoPass studio at Magic Kingdom Park.
“Maybe it closed due to a mother who paid a lot for her daughter, only to get a gender princess with a mustache,” said one commenter.
“I’m gay, and I think CMs in drag is a step too far!” another replied. “Don’t throw that into children’s faces who won’t understand it, and potentially get freaked out. Leave the experience to women!”
On the flip side, many Disney fans have expressed their support for the gender-inclusive changes.
One supporter argued:
Being a “Fairy Godmother’s Apprentice” is not a bad description…. It’s no different than “in training”, actually it gives it more weight. It would make the kids feel even more special. Just think of The Sword and the Stone…. Arthur was an Apprentice, not “in training”. In the business world you are not simply “in training”, “in training” is for a job with your name on your shirt….. Apprentice is someone that currently has a low position but can move up a ladder and one day be in a position of power.
“How is being accepting of everyone alienating anyone?” another Disney Parks fan asked. “If other being accepted makes you feel alienated then that’s a you problem. The only people who are being ‘alienated’ are those who feel that they are superior to anyone who is different than them.”
Despite the strong reactions, both positive and negative, the gender-inclusive changes are here to stay. The 2025 updates to the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique do not include changes to the employment requirements or the term “Fairy Godmother’s Apprentice.”
What do you think about the ongoing changes to the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique experience? Share your opinion with Disney Fanatic in the comments!
