A Disney Park Beloved Attraction Has Just Been Confirmed To Be Dead by the End of the Year
2026 Will Look a Lot Different
The stage lights are still flickering at this Disney Park. The bass is still pounding. And for fans of Walt Disney World’s Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, there’s one more year to keep their lighters up.
Despite mounting speculation and a wave of attraction closures, Disney has officially confirmed that the high-speed coaster starring Aerosmith will continue its run through December 2025. After that? It’s lights out for the legendary rock band—and a brand-new act takes the stage.
What’s next might surprise you. But what does this transition say about the future of Disney Parks?
A Long Encore for a Legendary Ride at This Disney Park
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster has been a cornerstone of Disney’s Hollywood Studios since 1999, delivering adrenaline-pumping thrills set to Aerosmith’s greatest hits. But as Disney evolves its offerings to focus on synergy with its in-house brands, many suspected the band-themed ride was nearing its final setlist.
Still, for now, fans can breathe a sigh of relief. The attraction will remain operational for the entirety of 2025. Disney hasn’t released a precise closing date, but history suggests it will likely shutter shortly after the holiday crowds clear out—possibly in the first week of January 2026.
The move gives guests one more year to step inside the iconic stretch limo, race through the glowing streets of LA, and rock out to “Love in an Elevator” one last time.
Muppets Prepare for a Theme Park Takeover
Once the music fades, a new era will begin—and it comes with puppets, chaos, and plenty of felt.
NEW: Rock ’N’ Roller Coaster Starring @TheMuppets at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will open in 2026. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith will remain open through all of 2025.
NEW: Rock ’N’ Roller Coaster Starring @TheMuppets at Disney's Hollywood Studios will open in 2026.
Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith will remain open through all of 2025.
— Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) June 7, 2025
Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster is slated to receive a full Muppets retheme in 2026, following the closure of MuppetVision 3D, which has entertained guests for over two decades. That show’s departure leaves a major hole for fans of Kermit, Gonzo, and Miss Piggy, making the coaster’s transformation a much-needed new home for the iconic franchise.
While details remain under wraps, insiders speculate the new version of the ride will keep its thrilling launch and track layout, with updated visuals, a new story, and plenty of Muppet-style mayhem.
Still, some fans wonder: can the Muppets really match the energy of a 57-mph roller coaster? Or is Disney planning a total tone shift?
More Than a Retheme—A Shift in Disney’s Direction
This isn’t just a simple overlay—it’s a reflection of Disney’s evolving identity.
In recent years, the company has phased out attractions based on external IPs or outdated themes in favor of content it owns. Splash Mountain is becoming Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. The Great Movie Ride gave way to Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway. Now, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster joins the list.
It was originally announced back in January that @TheMuppets would be taking over Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith.
It was originally announced back in January that @TheMuppets would be taking over Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith. pic.twitter.com/mrmYNTFNsE
— ThrillGeek (@thrillgeek) June 7, 2025
Disney has not responded to requests for additional comment, nor has it confirmed an opening date for the Muppets version of the ride. But with Aerosmith’s contract reportedly sunsetting and a desire to better align park experiences with Disney brands, the writing has long been on the wall.
The Final Countdown for This Disney Park Icon
So, what should fans do with this news? If you’ve been putting off a visit, 2025 is your last guaranteed chance to experience Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster in its original form.
And for fans of The Muppets? Buckle up. Their next big gig might be louder—and faster—than anything we’ve seen them do before.
Disney’s parks are changing rapidly. Some transitions are welcomed, others are met with resistance. But whether you’re clinging to nostalgia or excited for fresh experiences, one thing’s clear:
The next act is already warming up backstage.
