Walt Disney World Resort’s bold decision to revamp an original Frontierland attraction, the Country Bear Jamboree, sparked plenty of conversation among fans when first announced. But now, an official Disney survey reveals something that may surprise nostalgic guests: the new, updated version of the show has found favor with Magic Kingdom Park visitors, and the company is calling it a “big success.”
The changes were initially announced at the 2023 Destination D23 event, where Disney revealed they would be giving the classic attraction a complete overhaul with all-new animatronics and Disney music. This decision follows ongoing efforts by Disney to make its parks more modern and culturally aware, but it hasn’t been without controversy, especially among fans who hold the original version dear.
In January 2024, the doors closed on the original Country Bear Jamboree. Six months later, in July 2024, Disney debuted the new Country Bear Musical Jamboree, which now features an upgraded experience with advanced animatronics, fresh choreography, and an updated soundtrack. But perhaps the most controversial change was the renaming of one of the main characters, Liver Lips McGrowl, to Romeo McGrowl. The original name was seen as culturally insensitive, prompting the update.
The Country Bear Musical Jamboree features the same beloved characters performing country versions of Disney songs. The new show features Nashville-style costumes and a variety of country genres, from bluegrass to Western swing. It’s an attempt to make the show feel fresh and contemporary while removing elements that could be seen as outdated or offensive.
Despite the mixed feelings from some fans, Disney’s choice appears to be paying off. According to an official survey obtained by WDWNT, Magic Kingdom Park guests have overwhelmingly expressed a preference for the updated show, ranking it as the sixth most popular attraction in the park. This is a significant jump from the previous version’s spot at #27 in past surveys. Walt Disney World Resort reportedly called it a “big success.”
The updates to Frontierland don’t stop with the Country Bear Musical Jamboree. In the last year, Disney has made several notable changes in the area, including the closure of Splash Mountain to make way for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. Additionally, Disney demolished the Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade to build a Disney Vacation Club (DVC) lounge, and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is currently under a year-long refurbishment, promising “new magic” in 2026.
The biggest change of all is the announcement of a massive Magic Kingdom Park expansion. At the 2024 D23 Expo, Disney Experiences Chairman Josh D’Amaro revealed plans to tear down Tom Sawyer Island and sections of the Rivers of America in preparation for two new Cars (2006) attractions in Frontierland. Perhaps the most surprising announcement was the creation of a new Disney Villains land, which will be located “beyond Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.” No official opening dates have been given for these projects.
Do you prefer the new Country Bear Musical Jamboree over the Country Bear Jamboree? Let Disney Dining know in the comments!
This title is very deceiving…just because people are enjoying the new Country Bear Jamboree show does not mean that everyone who took the survey are excited about all of the changes in Frontierland…the characters of that show and the premise remained the same, much unlike what they are doing to the rest of the area. I know the article titles are all about the “clicks” it will get because most of the time, these “catching titles” do not match the actual content. Heading back to my original Disney sources to get real Disney news
An update is probably required, but calling it WOKE is something else. Just call it a refresh rather then trying to confuse your readers that Disney is still following left leaning agendas and DEI is alive and well.