Menu

Robots Replacing Cast Members?! Disney CEO Makes Startling D23 Announcement

Bob Iger with gray hair, wearing a suit, is standing in front of a backdrop featuring cartoon characters Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse at the D23 Expo 2024. He is holding a finger to his lips, as if shushing. The background shows a colorful, whimsical village scene.
Credit: Disney, Canva

Excitement is building in the world of theme parks as Good Morning America‘s Rebecca Jarvis has revealed that Disney CEO Bob Iger is set to make a major announcement this weekend regarding Disney Parks. According to Jarvis, Iger will unveil a significant update involving the integration of cutting-edge robotics technology into one of Disney’s iconic characters.

D23 Expo Mickey Mouse

Credit: Disney

D23 Announcements Begin

This morning, Bob Iger had a lengthy interview with Good Morning America, discussing all the exciting festivities happening at the D23 Expo this weekend at Disneyland Resort. In addition to dropping hints about Moana 2 and possibly an Inside Out 3Iger also mentioned some major surprises coming this weekend.

During her appearance on Good Morning America this morning, Jarvis teased that Iger will make a major upcoming announcement that will highlight a groundbreaking enhancement to the Disney Parks experience. She revealed that Iger will make:

“a big announcement this weekend about the Parks’ experience and the incorporation of one of the latest robotics technology into a character.”

The announcement is expected to further Disney’s tradition of innovation within its theme parks, where technological advancements often set new benchmarks for entertainment. The integration of advanced robotics into Disney characters could signal a new era of interactive experiences for park-goers, enhancing the immersion and magic that Disney is renowned for.

Will a Disney Character Become a Robot?

Since announcing this, many fans have weighed in on what this reveal could be. Some predict it could be hinting at the formerly announced Judy Hopps robot from ZootopiaOthers predict we could be getting a robotic Mickey Mouse or even an animatronic of Walt Disney himself.

While specific details about which character will be featured or the nature of the robotics technology have yet to be disclosed, the anticipation is already generating considerable buzz among Disney enthusiasts and industry experts alike. The potential for a new, tech-driven character experience aligns with Disney’s ongoing efforts to push the envelope of theme park entertainment.

Related: Disney Debuts Robot to Replace Costumed Characters in the Parks

Person adjusting a black hat with large blue mouse ears and colorful "Disneyland" embroidery in front of a blurred castle, likely at a theme park. Hair is blonde, and the background is dreamy and vibrant, focusing on the iconic hat.

Credit: D23

This latest development follows Disney’s recent initiatives to integrate technology into its attractions, such as the use of augmented reality in various experiences and advancements in animatronic technology. The introduction of robotics could mark a significant leap forward, offering guests an even more dynamic and interactive encounter with Disney’s storied characters.

Fans and industry insiders will be closely watching for more information as the weekend approaches. Bob Iger’s announcement promises to be a highlight of Disney’s continued evolution in the theme park landscape, further solidifying the company’s position as a leader in entertainment innovation.

About Eva Miller

Eva was born and raised in the beautiful state of Oregon but has since relocated and lives in New York City. Since she was young, Eva has loved to perform in musicals, especially Disney ones! Through performing, Disney’s music became the soundtrack of her childhood. Today, Eva loves to write about all the exciting happenings for the Walt Disney Company. In her free time, Eva loves to travel, spend time in nature, and go to Broadway shows. Her favorite Disney movie is 'Lilo and Stitch,' and her favorite Park is Disney's Animal Kingdom.