Something’s stirring in the world of Disney. While the spotlight has been on massive land expansions and major attraction overhauls, something else might be happening beneath the surface. Disney has a knack for surprise revivals, and fans are starting to wonder if a beloved classic could be next on the list.
When Disney starts making subtle moves, it’s rarely accidental. A few quiet hints can snowball into a significant announcement.
Constant Change Is Part of the Magic
Disney World has always thrived on evolution. Old rides don’t stay untouched for long, and recent months have proven that pattern once again. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is getting a full narrative refresh, complete with new scenes. EPCOT’s Spaceship Earth is almost ready to reopen after its latest refurbishment. Even Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin has temporarily closed to get some love.
These projects make it clear: Disney is doubling down on updating its core attractions while setting the stage for what’s next.
Expanding the Storytelling
But refurbishments aren’t the only thing Disney’s cooking up. Entirely new lands are on the horizon. Magic Kingdom has two massive additions in the works—Villains Land, bringing the darker side of Disney to life, and Piston Peak, inspired by Planes.
Animal Kingdom is set to debut its Tropical Americas expansion, replacing DinoLand with a fresh, vibrant land. And at Hollywood Studios, Monstropolis will give Monsters, Inc. a new home.
These projects lean into recognizable franchises—and that’s where Stitch comes in.
The Closing of Classics
Significant changes often mean saying goodbye to the past. Rivers of America, Tom Sawyer Island, and the Liberty Belle Riverboat have all shut down recently, removing long-standing fixtures from Magic Kingdom. Splash Mountain has already been transformed into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure.
Animal Kingdom has lost It’s Tough to Be a Bug, and DINOSAUR is next on the chopping block. These closures create room for new ideas—and possibly the return of an old favorite.
Stitch Steps Back Into the Spotlight
Stitch’s Great Escape! halted operations in 2018, leaving Tomorrowland without one of its quirkiest attractions. But Stitch’s popularity has skyrocketed again thanks to the live-action Lilo & Stitch film released in May 2025.
The movie’s success introduced him to a new generation, and the massive merchandise boom that followed. Stitch is now the second-highest-selling character for Disney merch, trailing only Mickey Mouse.
Hints Are Already Showing
Disney isn’t ignoring that momentum. Stitch meet and greets are back at Magic Kingdom and drawing long lines. He’s also part of the Walt Disney World Railroad audio overlay during its “shuttle mode” route—a subtle move that feels like a signal of something more.
When Disney slowly weaves a character into the park experience like this, it’s often a precursor to a bigger reveal.
Stitch Could Lead a New Era for Tomorrowland
Disney doesn’t miss an opportunity to capitalize on a hit character. Stitch’s broad appeal and energy fit perfectly into Tomorrowland. Reviving his old attraction or creating a brand-new one makes financial and creative sense.
Whether Disney modernizes Stitch’s Great Escape! or builds a new ride with advanced technology, a Stitch attraction could easily anchor Tomorrowland’s next chapter.
A Comeback That Feels Inevitable
While no announcement has been made, everything is lining up in classic Disney fashion—a popularity surge, park teases, and perfect timing. Stitch has proven he can pull in fans and revenue.
And if history repeats itself, his big comeback could happen much sooner than anyone expects.
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