Splash Mountain Character Makes a Surprise Comeback at Disney

One Splash Mountain character made a surprise comeback at Disneyland.

Disney Guests have found themselves torn between their love for a traditional Disney favorite and progress. Splash Mountain has become one of the most controversial subjects in Disney’s history. Although the attraction maintains its roots in the oral traditions of African Americans in the South, many of which were slaves, fans of the ride are still disgruntled and heartbroken to see it closed at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World.

Credit: Disney Dining

Most coverage of Splash Mountain’s replacement, “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure,” is met with a sharp divide between those who miss the “old Disney days” and those who insist the ride was racist and needed to be brought up-to-date. No matter where you stand in the debate, you can’t ignore the fact that even as it is closed, Splash Mountain remains one of the most popular rides in Disney Park. Full of memorable characters, a fun story, and of course, that amazing drop; it’s understandable that Guests are having a hard time saying goodbye.

Credit: Disney/ Canva

Although Splash Mountain is no longer at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World, Guests can still experience the attraction at Tokyo Disney, where there are no plans to update or change the popular ride. You’d be hard-pressed to find anything having to do with Splash Mountain at any U.S.-based Disney Park. After announcing the changes, Disney practically wiped Splash Mountain off the map. Merchandise, themed foods, and even music were all pulled to favor the upcoming change. Everything was removed. This included all reminders of popular ride characters like Br’er Rabbit and Br’er Fox. However, one visitor to Disneyland recently noticed that one Splash Mountain character had found its way back to Disney in a subtle yet unique way.

Looks like a Br’er Fox pressed penny is available again at Mad Hatter on Main Street. pic.twitter.com/qO2RjMjB3G

— Theme Park Casual (@ThemeParkCasual) July 24, 2023

Theme Park Casual recently posted to Twitter that they noticed Br’er Fox had returned to a pressed penny machine at Disneyland. The machine in question can be found outside of  Mad Hatter on Main Street. The popular Disneyland gift shop has little to no connection to the late Splash Mountain other than they used to sell attraction-based merchandise. However, it’s been quite some time since Br’er Bear, Br’er Fox, and Br’er Rabbit have made an appearance. In fact, Br’er Fox was initially removed from said pressed penny machine only to return a couple of days ago.

Credit: Matthew Cooper Photography (www.thetimethespace.com)

As Disney continues its work to create a more inclusive environment that appears less offensive, they closed down Splash Mountain in Disneyland on May 31. Splash Mountain at Walt Disney World closed earlier in the year in January, followed by demolition of both rides. The decision to keep the popular log flume ride open in Japan has definitely turned some heads and raised some eyebrows. However, the ride is no gone and set to make way for Tiana and company to take over the old “Laughing Place.” Although many don’t agree with the decision, we’re excited to see and try something new. “Tiana’s Bayou Adventure” is scheduled to open at both Disney Parks in 2024.