The countdown is on for one of Universal’s most anticipated theme park openings in recent memory. Epic Universe, set to open in 2025, promises to be a groundbreaking addition to the Universal Orlando Resort, packed with exciting attractions, immersive lands, and cutting-edge experiences.
Since the announcement, excitement has only continued to build, with fans eagerly awaiting the chance to step foot into this brand-new park.
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After several years of planning and development, Universal has been giving sneak peeks through team member and media previews, and the response has been nothing short of overwhelming. The theme park’s design is a testament to Universal’s commitment to bringing imagination to life, and early previews have shown just how incredible Epic Universe will be.
With impressive new attractions, vibrant landscapes, and a fresh take on beloved themes, the park is already generating plenty of buzz.
As we approach the official opening, one thing has been particularly exciting for fans: the merchandise. Universal is known for offering high-quality, themed merchandise that allows fans to take a piece of the magic home, and Epic Universe is no exception. Visitors have been flocking to the shops within the park, hoping to get their hands on exclusive items that showcase the park’s unique offerings.
From apparel to collectibles, Universal’s merchandise selection has been a big talking point, and fans are not shy about standing in long lines to get their hands on the newest items.
However, the overwhelming demand for one particular item has led to an unexpected twist. Universal has been forced to pull some merchandise off the shelves in order to manage inventory and meet the overwhelming demand.
According to reports, the popular Captain Cacao plush toys — one of the standout items from the park’s Moonship Chocolates & Celestial Sweets shop — were temporarily removed to ensure there would be enough stock for the official opening.
Captain Cacao, a lovable chocolate bear and the trusty navigator of Maya the Explorer, has captured the hearts of many, and it seems that the plushies have become a must-have collectible.
According to X (formerly Twitter) user Wallin Ballin, Universal took the step of removing the Captain Cacao plushies from shelves ahead of the Annual Passholder previews.
BREAKING: Rumors are swirling that Captain Cacao plushies have been taken OFF the shelves until AP previews begin, out of fear Universal will not be able to keep up with demand and run out of them completely!!! 👀👀👀
BREAKING: Rumors are swirling that Captain Cacao plushies have been taken OFF the shelves until AP previews begin, out of fear Universal will not be able to keep up with demand and run out of them completely!!! 👀👀👀 pic.twitter.com/cw3XfTScnS
— Wallin Ballin (@wallin_ballin) April 13, 2025
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Many social media users confirmed the rumors, sharing their own experiences of visiting Epic Universe and finding the beloved plush absent from the shelves. Some fans even took to X to express their frustration, saying that Captain Cacao was the one piece of merchandise they were most looking forward to.
It’s clear that Captain Cacao has become a fan favorite, and Universal is likely already in the process of ordering additional stock to ensure shelves are fully stocked when the park officially opens its doors on May 22.
Universal’s merchandise teams are no doubt making adjustments to meet the overwhelming demand and ensure that every guest who wants to take home their very own Captain Cacao plush has the opportunity to do so.
While this may be a minor hiccup in the lead-up to the opening of Epic Universe, it’s a reminder of the power of fan enthusiasm. The merchandise is just one example of how Epic Universe is already making an impact on visitors, and with just weeks to go before the grand opening, there’s no doubt the excitement will continue to build. Tickets for Epic Universe are currently on sale, so if you haven’t gotten yours yet, there’s still time to join in on the magic.
Will you be heading to Epic Universe for the grand opening? Or maybe you’re already planning to visit soon after? Let us know in the comments, and share your thoughts on the Captain Cacao craze!
