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ALERT: Disney May Have Just Saved the Muppets—Here’s How

It wasn’t all that long ago when Muppet fans were feeling like their favorite felt-covered crew was quietly being pushed out of Walt Disney World. The recent closure of MuppetVision 3-D at Hollywood Studios hit hard—after all, it had been a nostalgic staple in the park for decades. But in a surprising twist, Disney might not be retiring the Muppets after all. In fact, if you read between the lines, the company could be setting the stage for the biggest Muppets expansion in theme park history.

Disney's Hollywood Studios entrance at this Disney park.
Credit: Ed Aguila, Inside the Magic

Let’s take a closer look at how this could be happening right under our noses.

The New Muppets Coaster: Just the Beginning

Disney confirmed that Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster is getting a full reimagining, and this time it’s trading out Aerosmith for Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem. That’s right—the Muppets’ grooviest band is taking center stage in a new high-energy attraction expected to debut in 2026.

It’s a move that caught fans by surprise, but one that makes perfect sense when you think about it. The Muppets thrive in chaos, music, and comedy—all of which are perfect for a thrill ride like this one. But the location of the ride hints that Disney might be thinking even bigger.

Is a Full Muppets Area Coming?

The section of Hollywood Studios where Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster sits has always been a bit of an oddball. It’s tucked in the corner of Sunset Boulevard and doesn’t quite flow with the rest of the park. With the Muppets moving into the ride space, Disney has a rare chance to tie this section together thematically—and they may already be doing that.

Rock n Roller Coaster entrance
Credit: Disney

Right next to the future coaster lies the Sunset Showcase Theater. Currently, it’s home to a short-run Disney Villains show that, while fun, doesn’t exactly pack theaters or offer long-term value. Many guests see it once, snap a few photos, and move on. That’s a lot of underused potential.

Could MuppetVision 3-D Make a Comeback?

The closure of MuppetVision 3-D earlier this summer was tough to watch. It marked the end of an era for fans of the original Jim Henson creations. But that closure might not be a goodbye—it could be a relocation.

The Sunset Showcase Theater has enough room to host a modernized version of MuppetVision 3-D or something similar. It’s situated in the same area as the new Muppets ride, and combining the two attractions with themed surroundings could finally give the Muppets a land of their own.

Muppet Vision
Credit: Inside the Magic

Sure, there are some hurdles. The theater currently doesn’t offer a traditional preshow space, and MuppetVision 3-D never brought in the kind of crowds Disney usually chases. But those issues aren’t dealbreakers. If Disney wanted to make it happen, they absolutely could.

The Muppets Might Be Getting a Real Home

Imagine a themed courtyard filled with music, color, and the unmistakable charm of the Muppets. Add in some unique food stands, character meet-and-greets, maybe even a small stage show or parade element—and suddenly, the Muppets aren’t just part of the park. They’re the stars of an entire area.

It’s worth noting that Disney hasn’t officially announced anything beyond the new coaster. But let’s be honest: when has Disney ever rolled out a major retheme like this without making surrounding changes too?

A grand theater with ornate, classical decor featuring red velvet seats and gold accents. The stage shows a large screen with characters from the Muppets, including Kermit the Frog, Fozzie Bear, and Gonzo, surrounded by a rich red curtain. The theater is empty.
Credit: Disney

Between the coaster makeover, the potential reuse of the Sunset Showcase Theater, and a clear opportunity to build out a whimsical, Muppets-focused space, it’s entirely possible we’re seeing the early pieces of a “Muppet Land” come together.

Final Thoughts

For years, fans have been begging Disney to give the Muppets more love. The characters are beloved, quirky, and timeless—and they’ve always seemed underused at the parks. But now, it looks like the tides are finally turning.

Disney isn’t saying much yet, but all signs point to the Muppets getting a much bigger role at Hollywood Studios. And if this expansion plays out the way it’s shaping up, this could be the comeback fans have been waiting for.

Whether it’s a full-fledged land or just a cleverly connected set of attractions, one thing’s for sure: Disney may have just saved the Muppets in the most unexpected way possible. And if that means more Kermit, more Gonzo, and way more Electric Mayhem—we’re all in.

Andrew Boardwine

A frequent visitor of Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort, Andrew will likely be found freefalling on Twilight Zone Tower of Terror or enjoying Pirates of the Caribbean. Over at Universal, he'll be taking in the thrills of the Jurassic World Velocicoaster and Revenge of the Mummy

One Comment

  1. That will be awesome to see this happen for the Muppets at Sunset Boulevard at Disney Hollywood Studios! Because I love the Muppets.

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