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Disney Redesigns Beloved Character at Parks

The fall season returned to Magic Kingdom Park in 2025, accompanied by Halloween celebrations that offered guests a mix of seasonal experiences and familiar Disney characters. From August 15 through October 31, Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party welcomed visitors on select nights to enjoy trick-or-treating, live entertainment, and character encounters that appear only during the event. The celebration spanned three months, concluding on Halloween night.

One of the most talked-about moments of the party came from a refreshed appearance of Jack Skellington. Revealed on the official Disney Parks Instagram account, the Pumpkin King’s new look was inspired by his design in The Nightmare Before Christmas, the 1993 film directed by Henry Selick and produced by Tim Burton.

Mickey and Minnie Mouse, dressed in festive holiday outfits at Disney World.
Credit: Disney

Voiced by Chris Sarandon in the original film, Jack now appeared in a version that closely mirrors his movie likeness. Social media reactions highlighted guest approval, with comments such as “Awesome, he looks like himself now” and “Looks so much better.”

The redesign drew significant attention inside the park, leading to long lines for photos. Guests were encouraged to wear their own Halloween costumes, as Disney again relaxed its dress code for the event while keeping safety guidelines in place.

Looking ahead to the holiday season, the Walt Disney World Resort confirmed that Jack Skellington will appear in his Christmas form, “Sandy Claws,” during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and other seasonal festivities. Social media responses suggest that the new look is well received, with comments including “HE LOOKS SO GOOD” and “Best redesign ever.”

Jack Skellington dressed as Santa in 'The Nightmare Before Christmas'
Credit: Disney

The updates reflect Disney’s ongoing efforts to refresh characters and experiences across the parks, keeping long-time favorites exciting for returning guests. From Pumpkin King to Sandy Claws, Jack’s new designs are creating moments for guests to enjoy both in the fall and holiday seasons.

How do you feel about the multiple changes to the Jack Skellington character at the Walt Disney World Resort? Let us know in the comments down below!

Thomas Hitchen

When he’s not thinking about the Magic Kingdom, Thomas is usually reading a book, becoming desperately obsessed with fictional characters, or baking something delicious (his favorite is chocolate cake -- to bake and to eat). He's a dreamer and grew up on Mulan saving the world, Jim Hawkins soaring through the stars, and Padmé Amidala fighting a Nexu. At the Parks, he loves to ride Everest, stroll down Main Street with an overstuffed pin lanyard around his neck, and eat as many Mickey-shaped ice creams as possible. His favorite character is Han Solo (yes, he did shoot first), and his… More »

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