News

Disney Fanatic is here to deliver the latest in Disney news from The Walt Disney Company and beyond.

  • Jul- 2025 -
    18 July
    The animatronic in "Walt Disney - A Magical Life"

    The Fine Print for New Walt Disney Show Is Not Good News for Guests

    70 years after the grand opening of Disneyland, Walt Disney is once again greeting guests on Main Street, U.S.A.—this time, in a way only Disney could imagine. July 17, 2025, marked the 70th anniversary of Disneyland’s historic debut in Anaheim, California. As part of the festivities, the beloved Main Street Opera House debuted Walt Disney—A Magical Life, a theatrical production that blends cuttin

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  • 18 July
    Mickey Mouse waves from a balcony at Disneyland Resort.

    Select Guests Now Granted Cheaper Access to Walt Disney’s Original Theme Park

    Disneyland Resort’s 70th anniversary is officially underway, bringing new surprises, returning favorites, and heartfelt moments to guests on both sides of the Esplanade. First opening its gates in Anaheim, California on July 17, 1955, the park that started it all is now the centerpiece of a multi-day destination that includes Disney California Adventure, world-class hotels, themed dining, and vibr

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  • 17 July
    Rich Frank former Disney executive

    Former Disney Exec Accused of Turning Widow’s Grief Into a Scheme for Profit

    In the glamorous world of entertainment, few things are as complicated as managing a legacy after a high-profile individual’s death. When celebrity chef Michael Chiarello passed away suddenly in 2023, his widow, Eileen Gordon, found herself not only grieving but fighting to preserve her late husband’s legacy. What followed, however, has shaken the foundations of what many thought to be a tight-kni

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  • 17 July

    Disney Legend Dies on Stage in Front of Theme Park Guests

    In celebration of its 70th anniversary on July 17, 2025, Disneyland Resort introduced a groundbreaking new attraction: “Walt Disney – A Magical Life,” featuring the first-ever animatronic representation of Walt Disney. But like most things in the theme park fan community, the unveiling has not been without its share of controversy. Earlier this week, “Walt Disney – A Magical Life” quickly became a

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  • 17 July
    Guests walking through a portal at Epic Universe

    Epic Universe Coasters Linked to Hospitalizations, State Report Reveals

    When Universal Orlando unveiled Epic Universe in May, it ushered in a new era for themed entertainment. The sprawling park marked its third theme park after Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, and married beloved franchises with cutting‑edge design to create a cinematic playground. But beneath the fanfare lies a reality shared by all entertainment venues: even the most polished pro

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  • 17 July
    Crowds on Main Street, USA, at Disneyland Park, in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle. Disney bus service.

    Disney Now Issuing Written Warnings to Theme Park Guests, Effective July 17

    It’s not every day that Disney hands out citations at its theme parks! Disneyland Resort is taking a unique approach to its 70th anniversary celebrations by issuing “written warnings” to park visitors — but before you start worrying about penalties, these aren’t the kind of citations you might think. On July 17, 2025, thousands gathered to celebrate the 70th anniversary of Disneyland Resort. Thoug

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  • 17 July
    Souvenirs

    11 Disney Souvenirs You’ll Actually Want to Use Once You’re Home

    If you’ve ever wandered through a Disney theme park and watched someone wearing an oversized Goofy hat, you’ve probably wondered: When will they ever wear that again? We've all been there—tempted by fun, quirky Disney merchandise that ends up sitting unused in a closet. But don't worry, we're here to help you make smarter souvenir choices. With the right Disney keepsake, you can relive your magica

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  • 17 July
    Dolly Parton in front of the Dollywood sign

    “Like NYC Subway Garbage,” Dollywood Guests Slam Smell Issues

    Dollywood has long been celebrated as one of America’s most charming theme parks, blending high-thrill rides with the cultural roots of the Smoky Mountains. But as peak season draws thousands of guests to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, a less flattering detail is beginning to surface – one that some visitors say is hard to ignore. The park, which first opened in 1986 under Dolly Parton’s partnership wit

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  • 17 July
    Zoe Wanamaker Madame Hooch Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

    Speeding Conviction Leads to Driving Ban for ‘Harry Potter’ Star

    When we think of the stars from the Harry Potter franchise, we often imagine them in magical worlds or battling dark forces. However, their lives off-screen are not so different from the rest of us. Celebrities face the same laws, rules, and regulations that everyone else must abide by. That reality came to light recently for Zoe Wanamaker, the actress who played the beloved Madam Hooch in the fir

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  • 17 July
    The Christmas tree on Main Street, U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom.

    Disney’s Christmas Party Price Just Doubled—And Fans Are Furious

    Holiday cheer might be in the air, but the only thing snowballing faster than the festivities is the price tag at Disney World. Fans logging in to buy tickets to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party were met with some serious sticker shock—because this year, prices have climbed to historic highs. A Holiday Favorite With a Hefty Price Disney’s after-hours Christmas party has long been a holiday stap

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