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Why Is a Disney World Character Missing Pieces?

Guests at Walt Disney World Resort recently noticed something unusual at one of the Central Florida destination’s Value Resorts, sparking questions and speculation. The source of the curiosity? A beloved Disney character statue missing parts of its exterior. Let’s dive into what’s happening.

A Pop Century Mystery

A family in the hotel pool at Disney's Pop Century Resort at Walt Disney World Resort.
Credit: Disney

Disney’s Pop Century Resort, located on the Walt Disney World Resort property, is known for its oversized depictions of iconic Disney characters, from Mickey Mouse to Tramp. These towering figures are part of the resort’s charm, offering great photo opportunities for guests. However, one character recently appeared far from picture-perfect.

The character in question is Baloo, the lovable bear from The Jungle Book (1967). Positioned in the 1960s section of Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Baloo stands alongside his friend Mowgli, bringing a touch of nostalgia to the decades-themed hotel. While Mowgli seemed untouched, guests noticed that Baloo was looking worse for wear, with visible “holes” and chunks missing from his surface.

Guests Respond to Disney Character Mystery

The 90s section on of Disney's Pop Century Resort hotel at Walt Disney World Resort.
Credit: Disney

The situation came to light when Redditor u/sandy_shark903 shared photos of Baloo’s condition online. The post quickly drew attention, with Disney Parks fans expressing concern over the bear’s unusual appearance. While some saw it as neglect, others speculated it could be part of a repair process.

Baloo At Pop Century REALLY needs a new coat of paint
byu/sandy_shark903 inWaltDisneyWorld

“Baloo At Pop Century REALLY needs a new coat of paint,” the Redditor captioned their photos, showing areas where chunks of paint were missing or replaced with visible spackle.

Disney’s Solution to the Problem

According to resort guests, Baloo’s unusual appearance isn’t a case of neglect but evidence of ongoing repairs. Crews are actively working to restore Baloo, smoothing out his surface and preparing him for a fresh coat of paint. While the repairs are in progress, Baloo’s “incomplete” state has left some visitors wondering about the process.

King Louie and Baloo
Credit: Disney Fanatic

One Disney Parks fan, u/ScarHand69, questioned how the work is being done: “Where is all the scaffolding? Are they really putting it up and taking it down every night? Or maybe they use a cherry-picker and just park it out-of-sight during the day?”

Other guests confirmed that Disney cast members use portable lifts, commonly called cherry-pickers, to work on the statues without disrupting the Disney Park guest experience.

“I stayed in that building over New Year’s and they were working on him,” Redditor u/MetalAlbatross explained.

An animated scene featuring a joyful young boy with messy black hair hugging a tall, gray bear. They are in a lush jungle with green foliage and tall plants in the background. The bear is smiling and slightly leaning towards the boy.
Credit: Disney

“They were repairing them the week of Christmas, haven’t painted yet,” another guest, u/caracs, added.

While Baloo is currently under repair, fans can rest assured that he will soon return to his fully restored glory.

Have you noticed any changes at your favorite Disney Resort hotel? Let Disney Fanatic know in the comments. 

Jess Colopy

Jess Colopy is a Disney College Program alum and kid-at-heart. When she’s not furiously typing in a coffee shop, you can find her on the hunt for the newest Stitch pin.

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