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Pop icon Ariana Grande has made her love for Disney World’s Tower of Terror crystal clear, publicly calling on Disney to preserve the iconic ride in its current form.
Credit: Universal Pictures
Speaking on the Las Culturistas podcast, hosted by comedians Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers, Grande expressed her “real desperation” for Disney to keep the Florida version of the Tower of Terror unchanged. Her comments echo a sentiment felt by many fans who worry that the Orlando-based attraction might one day follow in the footsteps of Disneyland’s California Adventure, where the original Tower of Terror ride was transformed into Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: Breakout! in 2017.
“I’m a big fan of Guardians, I really am,” Grande said. “But there’s something irreplaceable about the Tower of Terror in Florida. I’m not saying this out of angst; it’s desperation to protect and preserve something truly magical.”
California Adventure’s Tower of Terror Transformation
Credit: Disney
In 2017, Disneyland’s California Adventure park made the bold decision to reimagine its own version of the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. Rebranded as Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: Breakout!, the attraction replaced the original ride’s eerie, vintage Hollywood aesthetic with a high-energy, Marvel-inspired storyline. The new ride immersed guests in the world of the Guardians, featuring characters like Rocket Raccoon and Groot, alongside pulsing music and high-intensity visuals that completely reshaped the experience. While Mission: Breakout! has become a popular addition to the park, it left fans of the classic Tower of Terror yearning for the original’s mysterious ambiance.
This California revamp marked a significant shift, as Disney parks have historically been careful with re-theming beloved attractions. The decision to update the Tower of Terror sparked debate, with some guests embracing the Marvel expansion and others mourning the loss of a classic. Disney fans in Florida are now vocalizing their hopes that the original Hollywood Studios attraction remains intact, preserving its unique and atmospheric Twilight Zone theme.
Grande’s Role in Wicked Adds Weight to Her Love for Timeless Stories
Credit: Universal Pictures
Grande’s appeal to Disney comes as she prepares to step into the role of Glinda in the highly anticipated Wicked film adaptation. The singer has long shown a deep respect for storytelling, and her upcoming portrayal in one of Broadway’s most celebrated musicals only amplifies her appreciation for iconic narratives. In a way, her advocacy for the Tower of Terror mirrors the timeless magic of Wicked, which Grande sees as equally deserving of protection.
The Wicked movie, which has been eagerly awaited by theater fans, gives Grande a chance to dive into another world filled with fantasy and wonder. “Wicked is this beautifully crafted story that resonates with so many, and I feel the same way about Disney’s Tower of Terror,” she explained. “It’s something that pulls you in and makes you feel part of something truly special.” Her comments highlight her strong belief in preserving experiences that connect people across generations.
Ariana Grande’s Disney Roots Run Deep
Credit: Disney
Though Grande may be best known for her music and television career, her connection to Disney goes back years. Early on, she made her mark in youth entertainment with her role on Victorious on Nickelodeon but her relationship with Disney has grown over time through appearances on Disney-related shows and projects. Grande has frequently expressed her admiration for Disney’s legacy and storytelling, citing its influence on her own career and creative work. Her appeal to protect the Tower of Terror is rooted in a genuine love for Disney, which she sees as an essential part of her life.
This connection makes her plea to Disney even more heartfelt. Fans see Grande as someone who understands the importance of Disney’s magical storytelling, which has the power to create memorable, immersive experiences. For Grande, the Tower of Terror isn’t just a ride—it’s an emblem of Disney’s rich history.
An Open Letter from Grande and a Fanbase United
During her appearance on Las Culturistas, Grande read aloud an open letter she had penned to Disney, emphasizing the importance of protecting the attraction. “The Tower of Terror is more than just a ride. It’s a piece of history, a nostalgic nod to vintage Hollywood,” she shared. Her letter went on to implore Disney to preserve the Tower of Terror’s unique atmosphere, something she calls “a masterpiece of storytelling and suspense.”
The Orlando-based Tower of Terror, which recently celebrated its 30th anniversary, has become a beloved landmark for Disney fans who cherish its classic Twilight Zone theme. As Disney explores further Marvel-themed expansions, Grande’s heartfelt letter serves as a call to balance innovation with tradition. Her plea speaks to a fanbase that values the magic of Disney’s legacy attractions and hopes to see them endure for years to come.
What do you think of Ariana Grande’s plea to Disney?
