News
Disney Fanatic is here to deliver the latest in Disney news from The Walt Disney Company and beyond.
-
Aug- 2026 -26 August
After Opening in 2025, Epic Universe Is Expanding 2 of Its Biggest Worlds
Universal Orlando Resort isn't waiting long to build upon the experience at Epic Universe. The theme park opened in May 2025 with five distinct worlds, each offering its own attractions, characters, restaurants, and atmosphere. Now, a little more than a year later, Universal has confirmed seasonal expansions for two of the park's most recognizable destinations. SUPER NINTENDO WORLD and How to Trai
Read More » -
26 August
Dolly Parton Died After ‘Brief Battle With Cancer,’ Dollywood Faces New Era
Dolly Parton died Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at age 80 after what her representatives described as a “brief battle with cancer,” adding a significant new detail to the country legend’s death. PEOPLE reported that Parton’s team confirmed the cancer diagnosis but did not disclose the type. For Dollywood fans, the news immediately raises another question: what happens to the Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, d
Read More » -
26 August
Universal Orlando Revives Controversial Halloween Horror Nights Offering for 2026
Universal Orlando Resort is preparing to unleash another season of Halloween Horror Nights, but one returning option could make the event slightly less frightening for some guests. The “Deathly Afraid” necklace has returned to Universal Studios Florida for Halloween Horror Nights 2026. First introduced last year, the accessory created an unusual option at an event built around scaring
Read More » -
26 August
Following Dolly Parton’s Devastating Death at 80, Disney+ Drops Unannounced Tribute Special
Few entertainers ever reached as many corners of American culture as Dolly Parton. Country music made her famous, but her career eventually took her into television, movies, business, philanthropy, and places far beyond Nashville. Disney became part of that story, too, building a connection with Parton that stretched across several generations. Following her death at 80, that relationship has take
Read More » -
26 August
Disney Jigsaw Puzzle: Toy Story Mania Ride Vehicle
Get ready for rootin’ tootin’ fun on Toy Story Mania at Disney’s Hollywood Studios! Quick Tip: Do you want to make the puzzle easier or more challenging? Select the grid option to adjust the number of pieces before pressing “OK” to start the puzzle. Jigsaw Puzzle Experience More Disney Springs-Themed Puzzles DisneyStyle at Disney Springs Orange Bird Wall at Disney Springs Aerophile at Disney Sprin
Read More » -
26 August
After 50 Years, Disney World Begins Work on Major Magic Kingdom Transportation Expansion
Millions of Walt Disney World guests have made the familiar trip toward Magic Kingdom over the decades, and Disney is now preparing to change one part of that experience for the first time in 50 years. The company is expanding its Magic Kingdom boat fleet with a fourth vessel, marking a surprisingly rare transportation milestone at the resort. Before that new boat arrives, Disney has some work to
Read More » -
25 August
‘Star Wars’ Retcons Han Solo’s ‘Force Awakens’ Storyline
Lucasfilm has quietly adjusted Star Wars canon in a move that reinterprets key elements of Star Wars: The Force Awakens, marking one of the most consequential continuity updates to the sequel trilogy in recent years. The Legacy of ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens' Star Wars: The Force Awakens functioned as a soft reboot, mirroring the original trilogy while introducing a new generation of heroe
Read More » -
25 August
‘Harry Potter’ Reboot Loses Another Star Amid Ongoing Controversy
The Harry Potter reboot has lost another cast member before its first episode has even aired. HBO has built its upcoming Harry Potter series around an unusually long-term plan, adapting all seven JK Rowling novels across multiple seasons while following a new group of young actors through each year at Hogwarts. That alone creates a logistical challenge. Add in intense scrutiny over casting, compar
Read More » -
25 August
Disney Announces EPCOT Mexico Area Will Close on August 31
This week, Walt Disney World Resort sealed the fate of a long-standing fixture of the Mexico World Showcase Pavilion at EPCOT. Here's what to know before you visit the second Central Florida Disney park. Mexico Closure at EPCOT On August 25, WDWNT reported that the Oaxacan wood-carving shop in the Plaza de los Amigos, in the Mexico World Showcase Pavilion at EPCOT, is now liquidating its inventory
Read More » -
25 August
Dolly Parton’s Death Rocks Dollywood as Park Issues Official Statement
For years, there was an easy way to explain what made Dollywood different from other American theme parks. It was Dolly. Not just her name on the entrance sign, and not simply the songs playing throughout the property. Dolly Parton's personality, upbringing, music, family, and deep connection to the Smoky Mountains were built into the park itself. Guests could ride a roller coaster, eat a meal, wa
Read More »
