One of Disney’s Hollywood Studios’ most recognizable—and quietly iconic—structures has officially disappeared. Over the weekend, crews at Walt Disney World demolished the large entry arch into Animation Courtyard, and if you’ve ever snapped a photo there or walked underneath it on your way to see Mickey or Darth Vader, you probably felt a little pang when the news hit.
And that wasn’t the only thing that vanished. The signage for Star Wars Launch Bay has also been taken down, and the whole area is getting cleared out fast. If you’ve been wondering what’s going on behind those construction walls over in the courtyard—well, it’s not just a coat of paint. It’s a full-blown transformation.
Let’s break down what’s gone, what’s coming, and why this matters to fans (even if you’re mostly in it for the popcorn buckets).
What Just Happened: The Archway Is Gone
First, the big one: the arch. You know the one.
That curved structure that framed the entrance to Animation Courtyard? It’s been standing since the Disney-MGM Studios days, back when this park had a working animation studio and an actual backlot tour. It wasn’t flashy, but it was familiar—and now it’s rubble.
According to WDW Magic, the archway was fully demolished this week. In its place? A cleared path that lines up with Disney’s recent concept art for a reimagined “Walt Disney Studios” area opening in 2026.
We’re told the new version will feature a more open layout with lush landscaping and fresh theming. So while the old structure had charm and history, the new design is going for flow and flexibility—two things that become a lot more important during spring break crowds or when a new show opens next door.
The Launch Bay Sign Has Also Left the Building
Right around the same time, Disney removed the Star Wars Launch Bay signage from the front of the building. This isn’t shocking, considering the Launch Bay hasn’t seen much foot traffic in years—especially now that Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge has its own entrance, attractions, and characters.
Still, Launch Bay had its moment. For a while, it was the go-to spot for character meet-and-greets, props from the films, and photo ops with Stormtroopers. It also served as a handy air-conditioned break from the sun.
With the signage gone, it’s clear the building is being completely rethemed. It’ll soon house The Magic of Disney Animation, an interactive family experience Disney says will celebrate the art of animation in a whole new way. (Yes, drawing classes might be making a comeback.)
Disney Junior Area Cleared Too
If you’ve walked by recently, you may have also noticed that the canopies once used for Disney Junior character meet-and-greets are now completely removed.
Those tents provided shade and structure for character appearances like Vampirina, Doc McStuffins, and other toddler favorites. While Disney hasn’t shared full details on what will replace this area, the space is being prepped as part of the overall rework of the courtyard, and a refreshed Disney Junior live show is still part of the 2026 plans.
Permit Watch: Utility Work Underway
Here’s where it gets a little more behind-the-scenes: Walt Disney Imagineering filed a fresh Notice of Commencement for “utility modification” at the site of the now-removed arch. That sounds technical—and it is—but it’s also a sign that the groundwork is literally being laid for what’s next.
These permits usually mean underground infrastructure (power, water, network systems) is being updated or rerouted. In other words, Disney isn’t just sprucing things up with flowers and new paint. They’re rebuilding this section of the park from the ground up.
What’s Coming in 2026
If you’re wondering whether this area is just being cleared out or if it’s actually getting something cool—don’t worry. Disney already announced a full lineup for the reimagined Animation Courtyard (soon to be part of the new Walt Disney Studios area), opening in 2026:
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The Magic of Disney Animation – A new interactive experience celebrating the legacy and process of Disney animation. Expect hands-on exhibits, animation demos, and maybe a few throwbacks to the old drawing classes.
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Drawn to Wonderland – A kids’ play zone themed around Alice in Wonderland, using concept art from Disney legend Mary Blair. This one’s expected to be colorful, quirky, and Instagram-ready.
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The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure – A new live show based on the animated classic, took over the old Studio Theater space. It’s not Voyage of the Little Mermaid, but it fills the gap.
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Refreshed Disney Junior Show – An updated version of the previous toddler-friendly dance party, tailored to Disney’s current preschool lineup.
With these additions, the entire area will shift from “kind of forgotten corner of the park” to a fully programmed family zone—and honestly, it’s about time.
Why Fans Are Feeling a Bit Sentimental
Let’s be real—some fans are going to miss the archway. Sure, it wasn’t an attraction or a major photo op, but it was one of the last pieces of Disney-MGM Studios still standing. Between the demolition of the Great Movie Ride, the Backlot Tour, and the Earffel Tower, the list of original park icons is getting pretty short.
And while nostalgia doesn’t always make good business sense, it does make the parks feel personal. That’s why you’re seeing longtime guests reacting with a little sadness—because even a piece of metal and concrete can be tied to years of vacation memories.
Change Is Coming, Ready or Not
Whether you’re all in on the 2026 refresh or still mourning the loss of the Great Movie Ride, it’s clear that Disney’s Hollywood Studios is moving full steam ahead with its evolution.
The archway’s gone. The Launch Bay sign is gone. The old Animation Courtyard as we knew it? Also gone.
But a new version is coming—and it’s shaping up to be a lot more interactive, more family-friendly, and more in step with what today’s guests expect. Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself getting a little misty the next time you walk by and realize… it’s not there anymore.
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