Longtime Universal fans have had plenty to smile about lately. Between throwback celebrations, retro-inspired collections, and renewed focus on classic park icons, the resort has been giving its history greater prominence alongside its newest additions.
That celebration of the past continues with another release at Universal Orlando Resort. This time, one of the park's most recognizable characters is getting the spotlight through a collectible that blends nostalgia with a popular merchandise trend.
A Familiar Character Returns to the Spotlight
Guests visiting Universal Orlando Resort can now find a new E.T. Shoulder Buddy, adding another collectible inspired by one of Universal Studios Florida's most beloved characters.
The plush features E.T. in his iconic red hoodie with his glowing finger extended, recreating one of the character's best-known appearances. Like other shoulder buddies sold around the resort, it attaches magnetically, allowing guests to wear it while exploring the parks.
Although it's a small addition, the release carries extra meaning because E.T. has remained an important part of Universal Studios Florida for decades.
E.T. Adventure continues operating as one of the park's signature attractions, drawing both returning visitors and first-time riders. Many guests still consider the attraction a must-do, making E.T. one of the strongest symbols of Universal's early history.
The new Shoulder Buddy builds on that connection while giving fans another way to take a piece of that nostalgia home.
Universal Has Been Embracing Its Legacy
The latest E.T. release isn't happening in isolation. Over the past year, Universal has consistently found ways to celebrate the attractions, entertainment, and characters that helped shape the resort.
While Epic Universe has expanded Universal Orlando with entirely new worlds, Universal Studios Florida has continued recognizing the classics that longtime visitors remember best.
Retro-themed events have become a regular part of the resort's offerings, while anniversary celebrations have revisited important moments from Universal's history.
Entertainment has reflected that same philosophy. Parade celebrations have paired longtime Universal favorites with newer franchises, creating experiences that appeal to guests of every generation.
The nostalgia has also carried into merchandise. Universal has continued releasing collections featuring vintage artwork, retro logos, and designs inspired by the resort's earlier years, giving longtime fans plenty of opportunities to celebrate the parks they remember.
With another E.T. collectible now available, that nostalgic approach shows no signs of slowing down.
Attention Turns to a Major Upcoming Change
Universal's appreciation for classic properties has also become part of the discussion surrounding the future of Fast & Furious – Supercharged.
Universal has confirmed that the attraction's final operating day will be August 16, before the ride permanently closes on August 17. So far, the company has not announced what will replace it.
That hasn't stopped fans from sharing ideas.
Among the most popular rumored possibilities are Back to the Future (1985), Ghostbusters (1984), and Twister (1996). Each franchise has longstanding ties to Universal, making them natural choices for guests hoping that another classic property will eventually return to the park.
At this stage, however, those suggestions remain speculation. Universal has not confirmed a replacement attraction or revealed any official plans for the building.
Even without an announcement, the ongoing conversation reflects the strong interest in seeing more legacy properties return to Universal Studios Florida.
New ET shoulder buddy available for $25. @UniversalORL pic.twitter.com/45YaFwzrRz
— Inside Universal (@insideuniversal) August 7, 2026
Classic Universal Still Has a Place
Universal continues investing in new attractions and ambitious expansion projects, but it has also shown that honoring its past remains part of the plan.
The arrival of the E.T. Shoulder Buddy fits neatly alongside the resort's recent focus on retro entertainment, anniversary celebrations, and vintage-inspired merchandise. Together, those efforts have reminded longtime guests that many of Universal's most memorable characters still matter today.
Whether the rumors surrounding Fast & Furious – Supercharged ultimately lead to another classic franchise or something completely different, one thing is clear. Universal's history continues to influence the guest experience, and the newest E.T. collectible is another example of that lasting connection.
