Overnight, Walt Disney World Resort removed the Buzz Lightyear statue from outside the Once Upon A Toy store in Disney Springs. Guests visiting the popular photo-op spot will notice the blue platform empty and potted plants surrounding the area where the Tim Allen character normally sits. Here’s what we know about the removal and when the Toy Story (1995) character might return.
Toy Story is one of the easiest franchises to find across Walt Disney World Resort. At Magic Kingdom Park, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is currently undergoing updates to make it more interactive and technically advanced. Meanwhile, Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios continues to invite guests to shrink down to the size of Woody, Buzz, and the gang for a journey through Andy’s backyard.
For years, Buzz Lightyear and Mr. Potato Head have also greeted guests entering Once Upon A Toy at Disney Springs. Like the Cinderella and Aurora statues outside World of Disney, the Toy Story characters are popular repeat photo opportunities, marking growth spurts, haircuts, and other milestones for returning Walt Disney World Resort visitors. Unfortunately, many families will miss out on their favorite Disney Springs tradition this fall.
View this post on Instagram
This summer, Walt Disney World Resort removed and refurbished several character statues at Disney Springs, including Mr. Potato Head and Cinderella. Now, weeks after Mr. Potato Head returned, Buzz Lightyear has been taken down, likely for his own refurbishment project.
On Wednesday, @Attractions shared photos of the empty post outside Once Upon A Toy. The images show the outline of where Buzz Lightyear’s feet and supports once connected to the base.
It’s now Buzz Lightyear’s turn for a refurb at @DisneySprings
It’s now Buzz Lightyear’s turn for a refurb at @DisneySprings. https://t.co/jZhBRjquHA pic.twitter.com/1ytK9pBK1R
— Attractions Magazine (@Attractions) October 1, 2025
Refurbishments like these often take several weeks. Mr. Potato Head’s refurbishment lasted just under two months, so Buzz Lightyear could return to Disney Springs as early as November—hopefully in time for Toy Story 5 (2026).
Has your family ever taken a photo with Buzz Lightyear at Disney Springs? Share your favorite memories with Disney Fanatic in the comments!
