Outside the Disney Bubble
Disney Fanatic shares news and experiences that unfold outside of the Disney bubble, including news of Disney’s competitors and beyond.
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Jan- 2026 -20 January
The End of an Era at Universal Orlando as a Mysterious New Coaster Takes Shape
For generations, Universal Studios Florida has been a place where cinematic spectacle meets adrenaline-pumping thrills. From groundbreaking coasters to immersive lands inspired by beloved franchises, the park has built a reputation for pushing boundaries and redefining what theme park experiences can be. Guests arrive with sky-high expectations, eager to step into worlds shaped by blockbuster movi
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19 January
Violent Windstorm Rips Apart Giant Shrek Sign at Universal Orlando
Universal Orlando guests are used to seeing ride delays, weather warnings, and the occasional storm roll through Central Florida. They’re not used to seeing giant character signs fall apart in the parking garage. That’s exactly what happened yesterday when a powerful windstorm tore through the resort and partially destroyed a massive Shrek-themed sign inside one of Universal’s garages. Photos shar
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19 January
Universal Orlando Hints at a Dramatic Reset for Universal Studios Florida
Universal Orlando doesn’t normally post cryptic teasers without a long-term plan behind them. So when the resort dropped a sleek speedometer graphic with an odometer reading “012026” and offered no explanation at all, fans immediately knew something serious was coming. Most people landed on the same conclusion: January 20, 2026, is the day Universal finally reveals what it’s been building toward b
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19 January
One Death and Another Serious Malfunction Later, Universal Closes Epic Universe Ride
Stardust Racers at Universal Epic Universe has shut down indefinitely after both racing tracks simultaneously malfunctioned on January 18. The closure affects the same roller coaster where a guest died last September, renewing concerns about the attraction's safety and reliability. Double Valley Malfunction Multiple Universal Orlando Resort guests posted footage on Sunday showing both Stardust Rac
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18 January
Epic Universe Guests Will Notice a Big Shift Starting in February
Epic Universe mornings haven’t always matched the scale of the park itself. Early Park Admission existed, but it felt cautious — almost restrained. Guests could ride a few headliners, but much of the park remained just out of reach, waiting behind invisible lines until official opening time. In February, Universal starts loosening that grip. Beginning February 1, Early Park Admission expands beyon
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17 January
A Long-Maligned Attraction Nears the End as Universal Makes Way for a Massive New Coaster
Universal might finally be giving fans what they have been waiting for: a decent Fast & Furious attraction that respects its fanbase while honoring the long-standing franchise. ‘Fast & Furious’ Finally Getting the Respect It Has Worked So Hard for at Universal Orlando Resort Few places in the world carry the same emotional weight as a theme park. For millions of guests, Universal Orlando Resort is
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17 January
The Rise of the Boutique Giant: A New Multi-Billion Dollar Theme Park Brand Is Moving to Orlando to Take on Disney and Universal
For decades, Central Florida's skyline has been dominated by a two-party system. If you were looking for world-class immersion, you went to Walt Disney World. If you wanted high-octane thrills and movie-set realism, you headed to Universal Orlando Resort. But as we enter 2026, the status quo is being shattered. While Universal is currently basking in the glow of its recently opened Epic Universe,
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17 January
After Months of Operational Problems, Epic Universe Finally Shuts Down One of Its Attractions
Epic Universe is growing its refurbishment list but might also be adding to its closure list, even months after opening. So what's going on? Let's sort it out together. Epic Universe Refurbishment List Grows When guests walk through the gates of a brand-new theme park, they expect innovation, reliability, and that unmistakable sense of wonder that defines a world-class destination. At Universal Or
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16 January
Universal Orlando’s ‘Harry Potter’ Ride Upgrade Has Fans Fuming
Universal Orlando Resort didn’t announce a significant change, but fans felt it immediately. One of the most popular Harry Potter attractions reopened after maintenance, and instead of praise, it drew anger. Social media is filled with complaints, long posts, and disappointed reactions from guests who expected better. For many fans, this wasn’t a minor letdown—it felt personal. This attraction has
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16 January
Universal Is Suddenly Refusing Park Entry to Some Ticket Holders
For some Universal Orlando Resort guests, the vacation problem doesn’t start on a ride or in a long line. It begins at the entrance—the ticket scans. Nothing happens. Team Members step in. Guest Services gets involved. And suddenly, guests are told they can’t enter the park they already paid for. The reaction is almost always the same. Confusion first. Frustration next. And finally, the feeling th
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