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Disney Makes Big Update to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure- Fans Claim It’s Overdue

After months of waiting, the finale Tiana animatronic in Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Disneyland is finally back in motion. Guests riding the attraction recently reported that Tiana is once again dancing in the ride’s climactic scene, marking the first time she’s been fully operational since December 2024.

While many fans are thrilled to see the animatronic functioning as intended, others have expressed frustration over how long it took Disney to resolve the issue.

Guests riding Tiana's Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom
Credit: Disney

A Long-Awaited Fix for Tiana’s Big Moment

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure debuted at Disneyland with high expectations, bringing a new era of storytelling to the former Splash Mountain space. The ride’s grand finale features Tiana in a dazzling celebration, dancing joyfully in her signature green gown, surrounded by lively music and colorful lighting.

However, since late December, reports surfaced that Tiana’s movement had completely stopped, leaving guests to experience the finale with an eerily static figure instead of the dynamic, fluid performance Imagineers had intended.

Now, months later, Tiana is finally back to dancing—and fans have been quick to share their reactions.

Fans Rejoice—But Some Are Frustrated

Social media has been buzzing with excitement as guests post videos and photos of the animatronic fully moving again. Many celebrated the long-awaited fix, calling it a much-needed return to the immersive magic of the attraction. One fan on Reddit shared:

Didn’t record cuz I was so shocked to do anything with myself BUT…THE FINALE TIANA ANIMATRONICS IS FIXED!!!

Didn’t record cuz I was so shocked to do anything with myself BUT…THE FINALE TIANA ANIMATRONICS IS FIXED!!!🐸🐊🪷
byu/Super-Associate6818 inDisneyland

However, not everyone is completely satisfied. Some fans questioned why it took Disney several months to repair such a key figure in the ride.

Others compared the delay to past technical issues with newer animatronics, suggesting that Disney’s latest figures might be more complex but also more prone to extended downtimes.

Why Did It Take So Long?

Disney has not issued an official statement regarding the long delay in fixing the finale Tiana animatronic, but speculation suggests several possible reasons:

  • Complex Engineering – New-generation animatronics feature advanced movement and projection technology, making repairs more intricate than in the past.
  • Staffing and Maintenance Priorities – With multiple ongoing projects across the parks, it’s possible that Tiana’s repair was deprioritized in favor of other urgent maintenance needs.
  • Parts and Technical Challenges – Some fans theorize that sourcing specific parts or calibrating movement systems could have contributed to the extended downtime.

Regardless of the reason, the fact remains: Tiana is back, and guests can finally enjoy the attraction’s intended finale once more.

Guests riding Tiana's Bayou Adventure
Credit: Disney

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Moves Forward

With Tiana’s Bayou Adventure still in its early months, the ride continues to be a work in progress as Disney refines and polishes elements based on guest feedback and technical performance.

While some fans remain frustrated over the lengthy repair time, the return of a fully animated Tiana in the finale scene is a promising sign that Disney remains committed to keeping its newest attractions in top shape.

Have you seen Tiana back in action at Disneyland? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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.

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