Disney Parks

Television Host’s Controversial Splash Mountain Joke Will Shock You

Did you hear what this ‘SNL’ star had to say about Splash Mountain?

A game show host in a blue suit gestures animatedly at three contestants—two men in red and purple plaid shirts and a woman in a blue plaid shirt—who are standing behind a podium with digital displays. The background features curved blue lines.
Credit: Prime Video

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A recent episode of Pop Culture Jeopardy featured an unexpected controversy when Colin Jost made a comment regarding Disney’s Splash Mountain, a ride that has become a topic of heated discussion among fans and critics alike. During the show, Jost responded to a question concerning Princess Tiana, the beloved character from Disney’s 2009 animated film The Princess and the Frog, by saying, “It will always be Splash Mountain to me.” This remark, seemingly a lighthearted quip, struck a nerve with many viewers who hold varying opinions on both the ride and its replacement.

Social media quickly exploded following the airing of the episode, with a mix of reactions pouring in from Disney enthusiasts and casual viewers alike. While some users found humor in Jost’s comment, many others expressed their discontent, viewing the statement as an insensitivity towards the ride’s complex history and the reasons behind its closure. The juxtaposition of nostalgia for Splash Mountain and the positive reception of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure added layers to the public’s reaction.

Splash Mountain’s History

Disney Splash Mountain
Credit: Tokyo Disney Resort

Splash Mountain had its roots in Disney’s ambitious venture into theme park attractions, with the original iteration opening at Disneyland in 1989, followed by a larger expansion at Walt Disney World in 1992. The ride became an iconic experience within Disney parks, beloved for its engaging storylines, catchy songs, and thrilling drops.
However, the foundation of Splash Mountain rests on a controversial source.

The ride was heavily inspired by Disney’s 1946 film Song of the South, which has been widely criticized for its portrayals of race and its problematic themes. As discussions around the sensitivity of such content in entertainment evolved, calls for the closure of Splash Mountain grew louder. The decision was finally made public in 2020 when Disney announced that the ride would be replaced, paving the way for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, a project aimed at honoring a more progressive narrative.

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure

Tiana animatronic on Tiana's Bayou Adventure at Walt Disney World Resort.
Credit: Disney

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The development of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure sought to create a fresh interpretation inspired by The Princess and the Frog. This ride aims to immerse guests in a vibrant story that captures the essence of New Orleans culture and the spirit of Tiana, who embodies hard work and determination. Since its opening, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure has enjoyed considerable popularity, with visitors praising its immersive atmosphere and storytelling elements.

Compared to Splash Mountain, which became synonymous with nostalgia for many, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure offers a new lens through which fans can engage with Disney’s narratives. The transition from one ride to the other symbolizes a broader shift in Disney’s positioning and storytelling, aiming to reflect contemporary values more closely while still maintaining the excitement and joy associated with their attractions.

The fallout from Jost’s joke reveals a broader conversation surrounding Disney’s legacy and ongoing cultural relevance. Fan reactions and backlash to the comment highlight a divide among visitors and advocates of Disney’s history. Some feel a sense of loss regarding Splash Mountain, while others are eager for progress that honors diverse stories, as exemplified by Tiana’s character.

Colin Jost has a history of referencing Disney in his comedic commentary, often blending humor with social observation. His remarks sometimes spark considerable debate, and this latest one seems to fit that pattern. As Jost continues his projects in television, including Pop Culture Jeopardy, the potential impact of this controversy on his career looms large. The thin line between humor and sensitivity in topics involving race, history, and popular culture poses a challenge for public figures, particularly in the realm of comedy.

Luke Dammann

When at Disney world, Luke will probably be found eating with his favorite animatronic, Sonny Eclipse at Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe. When not at Disney World, Luke will probably be found defending Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe to people who claim "there are better restaurants"

3 Comments

  1. I don’t see anything wrong with his comment! MANY people feel the same way. MOST peoe don’t even know about Song of the South, and just miss the originality, songs and characters of the iconic ride. So.e people made it a whole racist thing, but there was really nothing racist about the attraction! Of it bothers you, don’t go, or don’t partake in the attraction, but there’s no reason to keep ruining experiences for others because a few people feel a certain way! Get over it!

  2. I whole Heartly agree with him, ‘IT WILL ALWAYS BE SPLAH MOUNTAIN!!!’ not ta’s place.

  3. Totally agree. It will always be Splash Mountain. Funny story: Even heard a person of color declaring loudly “Why the f… did they get rid of Splash Mountain!” Obviously she was not clued in to the fact that she should have been insulted by the Splash Mountain theme. Sigh…

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