Josh Gad is usually the last Disney star fans would associate with the dark side, but a surprising appearance at Disneyland has the actor looking nothing like his usual cheerful self.
Best known for bringing Olaf to life in Disney’s Frozen (2013) franchise, Gad recently traded his lovable snowman personality for a much more intimidating look.
A video circulating online shows the actor wearing a military-style uniform while surrounded by what appears to be a production crew.
The unexpected encounter has caught the attention of Disney fans, especially considering the character Gad usually portrays.
And while Disney hasn’t explained exactly what the actor was doing, the footage offers a glimpse at his latest unusual theme park appearance.
Josh Gad Takes on a Surprising New Look at Disneyland
Visitors to Disneyland Park recently spotted Gad dressed as a First Order officer inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
The actor wore the recognizable uniform associated with Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, making him look like he belonged among the First Order’s intimidating ranks.
An Instagram video shared by @jaimanderson captured Gad standing near several crew members who appeared to be filming something inside the themed land.
Despite his serious-looking costume, the actor didn’t completely abandon his friendly personality.
At one point, Gad gave a young guest a fist bump before returning to the apparent production.
The Instagram user suggested that Gad was filming a commercial, although Disney hasn’t officially confirmed the project’s purpose.
His appearance also doesn’t mean he’s joining an upcoming Star Wars movie or television series. Given his history of participating in Disneyland commercials, another promotional appearance seems more likely.
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Disney Fans Know Him for a Very Different Character
Gad’s First Order costume creates a funny contrast with the character that made him a familiar voice to Disney audiences.
In Frozen (2013) and Frozen II (2019), Gad plays Olaf, the enthusiastic snowman who loves friendship, warm hugs, and making people smile.
The First Order couldn’t be more different.
Known for its strict military structure and ruthless tactics, the organization poses a threat throughout the Star Wars universe.
Seeing the voice of Olaf dressed as one of its officers makes the encounter particularly entertaining.
However, Gad has never limited his Disney appearances to animated movies.
In fact, he has spent several years surprising theme park visitors by temporarily taking over jobs normally performed by Disney cast members.
Gad Has Taken Over Several Disney Attractions
The First Order appearance follows a series of memorable moments involving Gad at Disney parks.
In 2023, he became a Jungle Cruise skipper at Disneyland, entertaining passengers while guiding them through the classic attraction.
He returned to Disneyland in 2024 as a Disneyland Railroad conductor, interacting with visitors aboard the park’s famous train.
His adventures continued in 2025 when he stepped into two very different roles.
At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Gad became a Kilimanjaro Safaris guide, helping guests experience the attraction’s wildlife habitats.
He also dressed as a Haunted Mansion butler, embracing the attraction’s spooky atmosphere.
Earlier in 2026, Gad appeared aboard Disneyland’s Storybook Land Canal Boats, entertaining passengers while guiding them past miniature Disney settings.
These experiences have given guests opportunities to see the actor outside his familiar Hollywood roles.
His latest Star Wars appearance follows that same pattern, although his First Order uniform might be his most intimidating costume yet.
Olaf’s Voice Actor Has Several Movies Coming
Beyond his theme park appearances, Gad has a busy lineup of upcoming projects.
He will return as Chuck in The Angry Birds Movie 3 (2026), which is scheduled to arrive in theaters on December 23.
Gad is also attached to the Untitled Ocean’s Prequel (2027), while Spaceballs: The New One (2027) is scheduled for April.
Another animated project, Oh, the Places You’ll Go! (2028), will feature his voice talents.
However, Disney fans may be especially interested in his return as Olaf.
Frozen III (2027) is scheduled for November 24, bringing Gad back to the animated franchise and continuing the story of Anna and Elsa.
For now, Disney hasn’t announced when fans might see the finished footage from his First Order appearance.
Whether it becomes another Disneyland commercial or a different promotional project, Gad has once again found a way to surprise park guests.
And this time, Disney’s friendliest snowman has apparently discovered his villainous side.
