Disney has revealed a new look at Olaf, signaling a notable update to one of the most recognizable characters in the Frozen franchise.
The reveal arrives more than a decade after Olaf first appeared on screen, as Disney continues refining how its most popular animated characters are presented across films, merchandise, and live experiences.
First introduced in Frozen (2013), Olaf – a walking, talking snowman created by Elsa’s (Idina Menzel) icy powers – quickly became one of Disney Animation’s most popular modern characters.
Voiced by Josh Gad, Olaf’s blend of sincerity and self-aware humor helped distinguish him within a crowded cast, turning him into a merchandising powerhouse and a consistent audience favorite.
The character returned in Frozen 2 (2019) with a more prominent narrative role, as well as leading his own holiday featurette, Olaf’s Frozen Adventure. He will also star in Frozen 3 (2027) and Frozen 4.
Across those appearances, Olaf’s personality remained consistent, even as Disney experimented with different tones and storytelling approaches within the franchise.
How Disney Is Presenting Olaf Differently
Disney’s latest update to Olaf is tied to its theme parks, where the company has increasingly focused on improving character realism and guest interaction.
Until now, Olaf’s park appearances have relied on traditional formats. Guests can meet him at Disney’s Hollywood Studios or see him incorporated into Frozen Ever After at EPCOT and Hong Kong Disneyland.
He also appears on Anna and Elsa’s Frozen Journey at Tokyo DisneySea, where his role is integrated into a fixed ride system.
Those versions, however, limited how closely Olaf could resemble his animated counterpart, particularly in scale, movement, and facial expression.
Disney is now preparing to introduce a new Olaf designed as a free-roaming robotic character, marking a departure from performer-driven meet-and-greets.
The new Olaf will debut as part of World of Frozen at Walt Disney Studios Park, which will be renamed Disney Adventure World when the land opens in March.
Rather than appearing oversized or stationary, the character has been built to scale and engineered by Walt Disney Imagineering to move independently.
The robotic Olaf was first announced in November and described as “one of the most expressive and true-to-life characters built” via Disney Parks Blog.
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A newly released video shared by Tim Sypko, president and managing director of Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, offers the clearest look yet at the updated character.
“I love so many things about Arendelle, but especially when new friends visit,” Olaf says in the video before later turning to the camera and adding, “See you soon!”
Disney has confirmed that the free-roaming Olaf will debut simultaneously at Hong Kong Disneyland and Disney Adventure World on March 29, 2026.
Online reaction to the footage has been swift. “Ok Olaf is cute!!!” wrote one Instagram user. Another commented, “Awww… he is so cute and impressive.” A third added, “I can’t wait to finally meet Olaf!”
Disney has not announced whether this version of Olaf will appear elsewhere.
What World of Frozen Will Offer Guests
Olaf’s updated debut is part of a wider Frozen expansion tied to Disney’s international parks strategy.
World of Frozen will feature Frozen Ever After, incorporating the same upgraded audio-animatronics recently added to EPCOT’s version of the attraction.
Guests will also be able to meet Anna and Elsa during A Royal Encounter with Elsa and Anna, which will take place inside Arendelle Castle.
A new performance, A Celebration in Arendelle, will debut at Arendelle Bay. Elsa, Anna, Olaf, and Kristoff will appear aboard boats during what Disney describes as “a magical moment that brings their cherished traditions to life.”
Additional characters will appear throughout France’s World of Frozen, including Mossie, the baby troll, and Oaken from Wandering Oaken’s Trading Post and Sauna.
Dining and retail locations will include Nordic Crowns Tavern, Arendelle Boutique, and Fjord View Shop.
Despite Olaf’s expanded role overseas, Disney has not confirmed plans to bring the new character to EPCOT’s Norway Pavilion, where guests can currently meet Anna and Elsa.
Some fans have questioned whether a free-roaming Olaf would be practical within World Showcase, which often experiences heavy crowd congestion.
Do you plan on seeing Disney’s new Olaf animatronic in 2026?
