This week, Walt Disney Imagineering surprised fans by unveiling a magical update to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Walt Disney World Resort. The enhancement, which many fans consider a key addition, has sparked a mix of excitement and debate, a testament to Disney’s ability to captivate and challenge its audience.
In January 2023, Disney made waves by closing Splash Mountain, a beloved water-based attraction that had been a Magic Kingdom staple for over 30 years. Rooted in the animated sequences of Disney’s controversial 1946 film Song of the South, the ride faced increasing criticism for its racially insensitive themes. In 2020, Disney announced plans to reimagine the ride, swapping out its outdated narrative for one inspired by 2009’s The Princess and the Frog.
The transition wasn’t without controversy. The closure of Splash Mountain ignited an intense online debate, with critics accusing Disney of abandoning nostalgia for a so-called “woke agenda.” Supporters, however, praised the company for embracing inclusivity and modern storytelling. By June 2024, the revamped ride debuted as Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, offering a vibrant continuation of Tiana’s story, set after the events of the animated film.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure retained some of the features that made its predecessor iconic, including the thrilling 52-foot drop and a new original song, “Special Spice.” It also introduced guests to beloved characters like Tiana (voiced by Anika Noni Rose), Louis (Michael-Leon Wooley), and Mama Odie (Jenifer Lewis).
Yet, some fans lamented the absence of certain characters from the film. This week, Disney delighted those fans by addressing the omission, adding Ray and Evangeline—two cherished characters from the original story.
Disney shared the update on Instagram, writing:
“Look how they light up the sky! Imagineers added extra magic to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at @WaltDisneyWorld with this addition of Ray and Evangeline!”
For fans of the 2009 movie, Ray is the unforgettable firefly voiced by Jim Cummings. His unshakable love for Evangeline—the Evening Star he believes to be a firefly—stole hearts. Ray’s poignant transformation into a star beside Evangeline at the film’s end is one of its most emotional moments, making this addition to the ride all the more meaningful.
Disney World fans quickly expressed their enthusiasm for the update on Instagram.
“How awesome! Imagineers are the best and most talented people!!!” one fan commented. Another wrote, “Legendary imagineering as usual!” Some fans even suggested how Imagineers could expand on this addition:
“Can we PLEASE, PLEASE get them to light up on the crown on top of the water tower too??” one user asked. “Such a huge, missed opportunity for those two to twinkle above [Magic Kingdom] every night! (But this is awesome, too, so thanks for this!)”
While the Instagram announcement drew praise, reactions on X (formerly Twitter) were less forgiving.
“LOL at the things they ‘announce’ now. WDW is a joke of its former self,” wrote @jasonlanori.
“Universal is building an entire new park btw,” added @maxs_drafts, referencing the much-anticipated Epic Universe, Universal Orlando Resort’s newest project set to open in 2025.
Others called for larger-scale improvements.
“Small pluses are always appreciated, but geez. Let’s get some real projects to sink our teeth into at Disney World,” @wesomeTweets commented.
The update comes as Disney faces mounting pressure to keep pace with industry competitors like Universal. During the 2024 D23 Expo, Disney Parks chairman Josh D’Amaro assured fans that the company is committed to growth and innovation, stating, “Plans are drawn. Dirt is moving. We are doing everything you’re going to hear tonight.”
Among the announcements was a massive transformation for Magic Kingdom’s Frontierland. Disney confirmed that Radiator Springs, inspired by Pixar’s Cars, will take up residence alongside Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. The overhaul will involve the permanent closure of Tom Sawyer Island and Rivers of America, a move that has upset many longtime fans.
Frontierland’s redevelopment will also include a new Villain-themed land, though progress has slowed due to regulatory challenges. The Central Florida Tourism Oversight District (CFTOD), created in 2023 to replace the Reedy Creek Improvement District, recently requested a 60-day extension to review Disney’s plans.
For many fans, the addition of Ray and Evangeline reflects Disney Imagineering’s knack for enhancing its attractions with emotional storytelling. While some critics argue these updates fall short of addressing larger concerns, others see them as a reminder of Disney’s unparalleled attention to detail.
What do you think of the latest updates to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure? Do Ray and Evangeline light up the ride—or should Disney focus on larger projects? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
The destruction of splash mountain was one of the worst decisions Disney has ever made Walt is probably yelling in his grave.
What’s next ????
Let’s tear down the castle!!!!!