One of the newest additions to Shanghai Disneyland has introduced some diversity and flair to the Disney Park experience. Zootopia: Hot Pursuit, the only ride in the park’s Zootopia Land, has captured the hearts of Disney Parks fans worldwide with its cutting-edge technology and vibrant storytelling. But one character in particular is stealing the spotlight.
Zootopia Land’s Latest Star
Zootopia Land opened at Shanghai Disneyland in December 2023, inviting guests into the bustling metropolis of Zootopia (2016). The land features themed snacks, exclusive merchandise, and character meet-and-greets with Nick Wilde and Judy Hopps. However, the main draw is the immersive dark ride, Zootopia: Hot Pursuit.
On the ride, Disney Park guests join Nick and Judy on a high-speed chase through the city’s districts, including Tundra Town, Sahara Square, and the Rainforest District. Along the way, riders encounter familiar faces from the film, including pop sensation Gazelle, voiced by Shakira. But there’s a new character making waves: “Gurlzelle,” a fabulous drag performer who impersonates Gazelle in the story.
Gurlzelle, an animatronic character, is voiced by the iconic drag queen Ginger Minj. TikToker @patrickadougall shared a video of the beloved addition, giving fans worldwide a sneak peek at this vibrant figure. “We LOVE her,” the TikToker wrote, and fans couldn’t agree more.
@patrickadougall Gurlzelle is an ICONIC drag queen impersonator of Gazelle in the Zootopia Ride at Shanghai Disneyland #disneyparks #zootopia #disney
Fans Celebrate Representation at Shanghai Disneyland
The video showcasing the Shanghai Disneyland animatronic quickly gained traction, amassing over 30,000 likes and sparking enthusiasm among Disney Parks fans.
“This has been my favorite thing to come from this ride,” wrote @chr111stian.
“DIVAAA,” @lovecherryscalpy.v2 added.
Zootopia Expands Its Reach
While “Gurlzelle” shines at Shanghai Disneyland, Zootopia fans in the United States also have something to look forward to. Disney recently announced that a Zootopia-themed show, Zootopia: Better Zoogether!, will open in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park at Walt Disney World Resort next winter. The experience will replace It’s Tough to Be a Bug in the Tree of Life theater, marking the first permanent Zootopia attraction in the U.S.
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