Walt Disney World Resort is known for its magical character interactions, giving guests the opportunity to meet their favorite Disney icons in person. However, over the years, many beloved characters have disappeared from regular meet-and-greets, leaving Disney Parks fans reminiscing about their interactions.
These characters hold a special place in Disney history, whether they disappeared due to changing attractions, shifting priorities, or updates to the parks. Here’s a look back at some of the most iconic characters that used to be part of the Walt Disney World Resort experience.
Dreamfinder and Figment: EPCOT’s Lost Duo
Figment, the playful purple dragon, still charms guests at EPCOT today.
But he once had a companion—the beloved Dreamfinder. Together, they starred in the original Journey Into Imagination attraction, where Dreamfinder created Figment from a spark of inspiration, leading guests on a whimsical journey through creativity and imagination.
Unfortunately, when the attraction was reimagined, Dreamfinder was removed, leaving Figment as the sole star. Though Figment remains a fan favorite, longtime Disney Parks fans still reminisce about the Dreamfinder’s whimsical storytelling and wish for his return.
Merlin and the Sword in the Stone Ceremony
Merlin, the wise and whimsical wizard from The Sword in the Stone (1963), once hosted an interactive show in Fantasyland near Prince Charming’s Regal Carrousel.
Lucky guests were chosen to attempt pulling the enchanted sword from the stone, proving their worth as the next ruler of England. Unfortunately, the ceremony was discontinued. The sword in the stone remains in Fantasyland, awaiting guests who dare try to prove themselves worthy.
Kenai and Koda: A Brother Bear Farewell
Disney’s Brother Bear (2003) may not have been the biggest blockbuster, but its heartwarming story earned a devoted fanbase.
Kenai and Koda, the lovable bear duo from the film, were once a staple at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, greeting guests and posing for pictures from rafts on the water. As time passed and newer characters took center stage, Kenai and Koda quietly disappeared from Walt Disney World Resort.
Push the Talking Trash Can: A Tomorrowland Treasure
One of the most unique “characters” in Disney history wasn’t a person at all—it was a trash can!
Push the Talking Trash Can delighted guests in Tomorrowland at Magic Kingdom. With a hidden remote-controlled design, Push surprised and entertained guests with his witty personality and clever comebacks.
Sadly, Push was retired from the parks. While other interactive trash cans have popped up around Walt Disney World Resort, the original has never returned.
Beast: An Enchanting Encounter
The Beast from Beauty and the Beast (1991) was once a common meet-and-greet character at EPCOT’s France World Showcase pavilion and around Magic Kingdom Park. He once posed for photos with every family who dined at Be Our Guest Restaurant in Fantasyland.
However, his appearances have been drastically reduced. Today, guests can only encounter him from afar at Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and at Be Our Guest Restaurant in Magic Kingdom, where he roams the dining hall during dinner. He doesn’t pose for photos.
Baloo and King Louie: Jungle Friends No More
Baloo and King Louie, the fun-loving duo from The Jungle Book (1967), were once a regular sight at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. Guests could meet them at Upcountry Landing in the Asia section of the park, which was even decorated for the winter holidays.
However, in April 2018, their meet-and-greet was retired, making way for other character experiences. Fans of The Jungle Book still have opportunities to see Baloo and King Louie in parades and special events, but their daily interactions are missed by many.
Flik: A Bug’s Life (1998) in the Parks
Flik, the determined ant from A Bug’s Life (1998), was once a staple at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, greeting guests near the Tree of Life.
Unfortunately, as Disney’s focus shifted toward newer franchises, Flik’s presence in the parks dwindled. His meet-and-greet was discontinued in April 2018. With A Bug’s Life no longer a major focus for Disney and the upcoming closure of It’s Tough To Be A Bug!, his return seems unlikely.
The Ever-Changing World of Disney Characters
Walt Disney World Resort is constantly evolving, introducing new experiences while retiring older ones. While it’s always exciting to see new characters debut in the parks, longtime fans can’t help but miss the interactions that made their visits so special.
For those longing for a nostalgic meet-and-greet, Disney occasionally brings back retired characters for special events and holiday celebrations. Until then, we cherish the memories and look forward to the next wave of Disney magic!
Are there any retired Walt Disney World Resort characters you wish would return? Share your favorite memories in the comments!
