Disneyland Redefines Classic: ‘It’s a Small World’ Gains New Verse After 60 Years
The Old Attraction Is Gone Forever
Since 1966, this Disneyland ride has brought joy and wonder to millions worldwide. And now, it’s going away forever—not really, but the lyrics are taking a huge step forward in upgrades.
Disneyland Ride Changes Final Lyrics: First Time Since 1966
Tears were quietly shed this morning—not over a character farewell or a show ending, but from something much subtler.
At Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, the boats were moving as they always do. Families settled in, expecting the usual sweet melody of “it’s a small world” and the smiling dolls from across the globe. But by the time Guests reached the finale scene, something was… different.
Not louder. Not flashier. But heartfelt.
So, what exactly changed—and why are so many calling it one of the most emotional updates Disney has made in years?
A Legacy You Can Hear
Before we dive into what changed, let’s rewind.
“it’s a small world” is one of Disney’s oldest and most recognizable attractions. Born at the 1964 New York World’s Fair, the ride was crafted to showcase peace, harmony, and cultural unity through song. The Sherman Brothers—Robert and Richard M. Sherman—composed its unforgettable theme, a song that’s been stuck in heads (and hearts) for nearly six decades.
Now, nearly 60 years later, that song has a new verse.
A Hidden Update, Years in the Making
The new lyrics weren’t promoted with fireworks or fanfare. They quietly debuted today at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort, woven into the finale scene of the attraction. The update features a final verse, written by the late Richard M. Sherman, in what Disney calls his “parting gift.”
The Tapestry of Happiness projections show had been updated to include the new LAST VERSE of “it’s a small world” as of today – @dlnt on X
The Tapestry of Happiness projections show had been updated to include the new LAST VERSE of “it’s a small world” as of today pic.twitter.com/ajQB90yf8N
— Disneyland News Today (@dlnt) July 17, 2025
Richard passed away in May 2024, and this newly-revealed verse is the last lyrical work he completed for Disney.
Here’s the verse now featured:
“Mother earth unites us in heart and mind
And the love we give makes us humankind
Through our vast wondrous land
When we stand hand in hand
It’s a small world after all.”
This new moment appears as the ride nears its end, in a room already known for its shimmering white and gold palette, and its iconic repetition of the main chorus. However, the new lyrics are subtly interlaced earlier in the attraction as well, echoing softly in the background throughout certain scenes.
The Emotional Why Behind the Change
Gregg Sherman, son of the late composer, shared that his father wanted the song’s message to evolve ever so slightly—to reflect a hope that the world would one day truly stand united.
“This new verse is about unity, love, and shared humanity,” Gregg said. “It reinforces what my dad always believed—that there’s more that unites us than divides us.”
Disney has confirmed this will be the final lyrical change ever made to the attraction. From now on, this will be the version of “it’s a small world” that new generations grow up with.
More Than Just Music
Back in late November 2024, Disney quietly released a short film titled The Last Verse to commemorate the song’s 60th anniversary. The 3.5-minute piece followed children and families from around the world, passing along the iconic tune. It ends with the debut of the final verse—a tribute to a man who believed in the beauty of human connection.
Though subtle, the new lyrics carry deep emotional impact. They don’t simply rhyme—they reflect legacy, memory, and the belief that even in chaos, kindness can create harmony.
Why This Matters for This Beloved Disneyland Ride
In a time when the world often feels divided, Sherman’s words remind us of something profoundly simple: love and understanding can still unite us.
For longtime Disney fans, this update isn’t just a musical tweak—it’s a tribute. A farewell. A moment in time frozen in music.
So the next time you drift along the gentle waters of “it’s a small world,” listen closely. Somewhere in the chorus, you’ll hear a final message from one of Disney’s greatest musical storytellers—reminding you that, no matter the distance, we’re all in this together.
