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New Walt Disney Experience Faces Delay — Here’s What We Know

For the first time in Disney history, Imagineers have crafted an audio-animatronic version of Walt Disney, aiming to capture his essence in a way never seen before. Walt Disney: A Magical Life will run in rotation with Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln at the Main Street Opera House, offering guests a chance to experience Walt’s story in an immersive, emotional tribute.

To ensure authenticity, Imagineers have collaborated closely with Disney historians and members of the Disney family, fine-tuning everything from Walt’s voice to his signature mannerisms.

Walt Disney animatronic sits on a desk in concept art for "Walt Disney – A Magical Life"
Credit: Disney

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The attraction is designed to highlight key moments from Walt’s journey, from his humble beginnings in Marceline, Missouri, to the creation of Disneyland — the park he envisioned as a place where dreams come true.

Disneyland Resort is celebrating its 70th anniversary in a big way, but one highly anticipated attraction won’t be arriving as soon as expected. Walt Disney: A Magical Life, a brand-new animatronic show dedicated to Walt Disney himself, has officially been delayed.

Originally set to debut on May 16, 2025, the attraction will now open on July 17, 2025—the exact date Disneyland first opened its gates in 1955.

A vibrant, magical castle adorned with banners celebrating "100 Years of Wonder." The scene includes lush greenery, a fountain, and a bright sky. Visitors admire the festive decorations at this Disney Park.
Credit: Disney

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Why the Delay?

Although delays in theme park attractions are common, this one appears to be intentional rather than a setback. According to insiders, Disney made the strategic decision to push back the show’s premiere to July 17, aligning it with Disneyland’s 70th-anniversary celebration.

This change transforms the attraction’s debut into a historic moment, ensuring it carries even more weight for longtime Disney fans.

A scene from Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln at Disneyland Park
Credit: Disney

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Additionally, Disney reportedly wants to take extra time to perfect the technology behind the animatronic. Bringing Walt Disney to life in such a detailed and realistic way requires meticulous programming, and Imagineers are working to ensure the final result exceeds expectations.

A Celebration Not to Be Missed

Despite the delay, Disneyland’s 70th anniversary will still be packed with exciting offerings. Returning favorites like the Paint the Night parade and Wondrous Journeys nighttime spectacular will light up the park, while special food, merchandise, and character appearances will add to the magic.

Mickey and Minnie in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle as part of the Disneyland 70th Anniversary
Credit: Disney

Mickey and friends will even don new celebratory outfits to mark the occasion.

With festivities planned through summer 2026, guests will have plenty of opportunities to experience the magic of Disneyland’s milestone anniversary. And for those eager to see Walt Disney: A Magical Life, the wait may be worth it—after all, Disney’s commitment to storytelling and innovation means this animatronic tribute to Walt could become one of the most iconic additions to Disneyland in years.

Will you be visiting Disneyland for its 70th anniversary? Are you excited to see Walt Disney brought to life with this groundbreaking animatronic? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Krysten Swensen

A born and bred New England girl living the Disney life in Southern California. I love to read, to watch The Golden Girls, and love everything to do with Disney and Universal. I also love to share daily doses of Disney on my Disney Instagram @BrazzleDazzleDisney!

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