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Disney Erases the Past? ‘The Jungle Book’ Characters Get Modern Makeover

Walt Disney World Resort is making noticeable changes to some of its iconic oversized character statues.

Disney Character Statues Get a Surprising Update

Disney’s Pop Century Resort, known for its nostalgic oversized icons from different decades, has been undergoing renovations for several years. Recent changes include an updated Everything Pop Shopping & Dining area and redesigned guest rooms. Now, the Value Resort hotel is turning its attention to some of its most recognizable outdoor fixtures—the Jungle Book (1967) statues of Baloo and Mowgli.

A brightly colored and modern fast food restaurant interior, reminiscent of Disney World, featuring a curved counter with vibrant lights above, booths with square-patterned upholstery, orange and yellow seats, and a ceiling with circular designs. The counter displays a variety of menu options.
Credit: Disney

Last month, Disney Dining reported on guest concerns regarding these beloved statues. The figures, which have overlooked the Hippy Dippy Pool for years, began showing signs of wear, leading Walt Disney World Resort to begin refurbishing them.

In December, Disney Resort guests first noticed visible wear on Baloo’s paint job. Soon after, large sections of the figure were covered in a spackle-like material, signaling an extensive update. When Disney Dining checked in on the progress on January 29, Baloo had been completely sanded down, primed, and prepared for a full repaint.

A large statue of a cheerful gray bear resembling a beloved Disney character stands between two brightly lit buildings with colorful decor. The bear, with its mouth open wide, is surrounded by plants and flowers, including large painted ones on the walls behind it. It's nighttime.
Credit: Jess Colopy, Disney Dining

Photos taken during the refurbishment process show Baloo stripped of his signature grayish-blue color, standing in a stark, unfinished state. The white spackle-like material also appeared on some of Mowgli’s hair.

Two Disney character statues: Mowgli and Baloo. They are undergoing repair.
Credit: Jess Colopy, Disney Dining

It’s unclear whether this refurbishment is a routine touch-up or part of a larger effort to update the characters’ designs for a more modern audience.

More Updates on the Way?

The back of a Mickey Mouse statue at Disney's Pop Century Resort
Credit: Disney

While Baloo and Mowgli’s refresh is the most noticeable, there’s no word on whether Disney plans to refurbish other statues at Pop Century Resort or other Value Resort hotels. Similar oversized figures are scattered across Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort, Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, and Disney’s All-Star Music Resort.

Have you noticed any changes at the Disney theme parks or Disney Resort hotels? Let Disney Dining know in the comments! 

Jess Colopy

Jess Colopy is a Disney College Program alum and kid-at-heart. When she’s not furiously typing in a coffee shop, you can find her on the hunt for the newest Stitch pin.

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