Disney Scrambles to Fix Tiana’s Bayou Adventure; Fans Are Accused of “Cult Like” Response
In the heart of Walt Disney World Resort’s Magic Kingdom Park, amidst the magic of the park, lies Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. This enchanting new experience takes guests on a journey through the vibrant and lively world of Princess Tiana from the beloved movie The Princess and the Frog. As visitors step into this whimsical setting, they are transported to the bayou, where they can immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and flavors of New Orleans.
The attraction, which is currently being previewed at the theme park, has been one of Disney’s most highly anticipated attractions for the past few years. For many, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is not just a ride; it is a journey into the heart and soul of Princess Tiana’s world.
It embodies the magic of Disney storytelling, where dreams come true and where every guest can experience a taste of the enchantment that defines the spirit of New Orleans.
However, not all Disney fans feel this way. In fact, many fans oppose the attraction entirely and belive the behavior of Disney guests has been nothing short of creepy and “cult like.”
Related: Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Criticized for ‘Racially Insensitive’ Setting
The ”Cult” of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
This past weekend, Disney fans were met with a shock when it was revealed that new attraction elements were being added to the ride ahead of its official opening. To many, this choice was due to the backlash Disney was receiving for the bare appearance of the ride. Compared to the previous attraction at this location, Splash Mountain, many deemed Tiana’s to feel lackluster.
On the opposing side, Tiana’s fans have expressed their deep love and appreciation for the attraction. Some critics have gone as far as to describe the passionate following of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure as akin to a “cult-like” devotion.
Despite being a newer attraction compared to classic rides in Walt Disney World, this immersive experience has garnered a fervent fan base that appreciates its unique blend of storytelling and technology. One of the ride’s biggest fans is Drew Smith, known as @DrewDisneyDude on X.
Creator Called Out by Splash Mountain Fanatics
In a recent video on X, Drew discussed wanting to plan an opening day fan event for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure based on the closing day event for Splash Mountain. While many found this idea to be sweet, some found the behavior disturbing.
https://twitter.com/abbytrad/status/1805329129891352988
Another commenter expressed that while the intention is nice, the fanbase of Tiana’s couldn’t ever match the organic nature of Splash Mountain’s community. The commenter said:
“i appreciate your enthusiasm but the turnout for Splash was not organized. it was so beloved that it drew in that insane of a crowd to celebrate it, it’s characters, and it’s legacy before Disney took it away for the wrong reasons…”
It seems for now that the fan discourse over this ride is far from over. While some may view the intense adoration for this ride as excessive, many fans see it as a testament to the ride’s ability to capture hearts and imaginations with its detailed design and memorable characters.
The enchanting allure of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure has proven to be a standout in Disney’s roster of attractions, offering a refreshing take on the traditional Disney park experience.
IMO: It will be a hit for 6 months or until all the new is gone. Once all those that want to ride it have, it will be a walk on unless it is a really hot day out! It isn’t even close to the animations and story of Splash Mountain, WDW should have developed an entire section for Tiana next to Splash Mountain and given it a ride that could follow a story for Tiana and not have Tiana fit into a ride that wasn’t designed for her story. There isn’t any drama in this story and the black holes are ridiculous. Screens don’t fit in this ride they just prove how cheap WDW and Bob and Josh are wanting to get away with.
I still stand by they should’ve left splash mountain alone and built Tiana a brand new ride. I mean isn’t that why Walt went to Florida in the first place. Because he had tons of room.
Disney CEO Bob Iger has said the new ride is boring. That should say it all since he ordered the change to be done.